Winnipeg Comiccon 2026
Winnipeg Comiccon made a triumphant return to the RBC Convention Centre from October 30 to November 1, 2026, welcoming more than thirty-five thousand fans for its sixth edition. Spanning over three days, the convention once again transformed downtown Winnipeg into a gathering place for fans of superheroes, horror, science fiction, anime, gaming, fantasy, and everything in between. With an impressive celebrity guest lineup, hundreds of exhibitors, engaging panels, live entertainment, and plenty of opportunities for fans to celebrate their favourite franchises, this year's event offered something for just about everyone.
The third floor was packed with more than three hundred exhibitors this year, creating an expansive shopping experience featuring collectibles, artwork, comics, clothing, memorabilia, and countless other pop culture treasures. Whether attendees arrived with a specific item in mind or simply wanted to browse, there was no shortage of unique finds. Artist Alley was another major attraction, showcasing the work of talented creators including "Ghoulish" Gary Pullin, Tom Grummett, Pia Guerra, Ian Boothby, Ramon Perez, Marcus To, S.M. Carter, and Eric Vedder. Their presence gave comic book enthusiasts the opportunity to discover original artwork, meet the people behind some of their favourite titles, and take home something truly special.
Of course, one of the biggest draws was the impressive collection of celebrity guests. Television fans were treated to appearances from several familiar faces, including the legendary Stargate SG-1 cast of Amanda Tapping, Lexa Doig, Michael Shanks, and Richard Dean Anderson, who is also beloved for his role in MacGyver. Fans of Smallville had the opportunity to meet Eric Johnson, Erica Durance, and Laura Vandervoort, while the reunion of Starship Troopers stars Casper Van Dien, Dina Meyer, and Jake Busey brought together another beloved group of science fiction favourites. Other notable guests included Catherine Tate, Mark Sheppard, Robert Patrick, Nhut Lee, Jodelle Ferland, Julian Richings, and Steven Ogg.
Horror and television fans also had the opportunity to meet Emily Kinney, best known for her role as Beth Greene on The Walking Dead. Kinney's appearance was especially special thanks to a separate acoustic performance on Friday night, featuring her original music and giving fans a chance to experience another side of her creative career beyond the screen.
Animation and gaming enthusiasts were equally well represented. Voice actors Brandon Rogers, Veronica Taylor, Elizabeth Maxwell, and Jason Liebrecht brought plenty of excitement to the convention, representing franchises ranging from Pokémon and Attack on Titan to Helluva Boss, Hazbin Hotel, and Genshin Impact. Their panels offered insight into the world of voice acting, the different techniques involved in bringing animated and video game characters to life, and the experiences behind some of the industry's most recognizable performances.
The convention also welcomed two wrestling icons, Kurt Angle and Mick Foley, giving wrestling fans the opportunity to meet two living legends whose individual careers have helped shape professional wrestling history as we know it today.
Beyond celebrity appearances and the bustling exhibition floor, the weekend's programming offered plenty of memorable experiences. Five special paid events added another dimension to the convention, including live performances from cinemetal band Galactic Empire, who reimagined iconic music from the Star Wars universe and other major franchises, and Emily Kinney's intimate acoustic set.
For Stargate SG-1 enthusiasts, Sunday brought an especially exciting opportunity with Breakfast in the Time Loop featuring Richard Dean Anderson. The weekend also included a special reunion event bringing Anderson together with co-stars Amanda Tapping, Michael Shanks, and Lexa Doig. Meanwhile, Starship Troopers fans were treated to a screening of Paul Verhoeven's 1997 science fiction action classic, introduced by Van Dien and Busey, who shared behind-the-scenes memories and stories from the making of the film.
Panels remained an important part of the weekend, with guests discussing everything from their careers and creative processes to personal experiences working on beloved productions. The Starship Troopers cast reflected on the enduring legacy of their film, while voice actors discussed the challenges and techniques involved in animation, anime, and video game performances. Other panels offered fans a more personal glimpse into the lives of their favourite performers, making the programming feel like more than just a series of promotional appearances.
Saturday's Masquerade was another highlight, bringing together an impressive collection of cosplayers who went all out to recreate their favourite characters. From superheroes and movie icons to video game legends, the costumes demonstrated an incredible amount of creativity, craftsmanship, and dedication. The showcase was a reminder that the fans themselves are just as much a part of what makes Comiccon special as the celebrities and creators who attend.
The Winnipeg Ghostbusters also returned as a familiar and much-loved presence, bringing along their gigantic twenty-five-foot Stay-Puft Marshmallow Man to the con. Beyond the spectacle, the group continues to make a meaningful difference in the community, having raised more than $100,000 for local children's charities since its establishment in 2018, with support from generous convention guests and attendees.
There was no shortage of additional activities throughout the weekend. DND Live! Blood Upon the Gate, MSEA eSports, Game-itoba's tabletop gaming area, Underworld LARP Winnipeg, Peg City Power Rangers, and the various Costuming Clubs of Winnipeg all contributed to the convention's lively atmosphere. Members of the 501st Legion's Renegade Squad, Dark Empire, Mando Mercs, Rebel Legion, Droid Builders, and Mandalorian Protectors were among those helping bring some of pop culture's most recognizable characters and worlds to life, while supporting Make-A-Wish Manitoba.
Cosplay meet-ups, performances from the Winnipeg Video Game Orchestra, and dozens of additional panels and activities ensured there was always something happening at the convention centre. The sheer variety of programming meant that visitors could spend the entire weekend exploring different interests, discovering new fandoms, and connecting with others who shared their enthusiasm.
Another fun addition to this year's convention was another collaboration with Trans Canada Brewing Co., which created SPACE SPIDERS, an Italian Pilsner beer made specifically for this year's Winnipeg Comiccon weekend. Featuring artwork by "Ghoulish" Gary Pullin, the special release was another example of the creative partnerships that help make the event feel distinctly Winnipeg.
Ultimately, Winnipeg Comiccon 2026 delivered another successful celebration of pop culture, bringing together more than thirty-five thousand fans for a weekend filled with entertainment, creativity, nostalgia, and community. From meeting legendary television and film stars to discovering independent artists, enjoying live performances, showing off elaborate cosplay, and supporting local charitable initiatives, the convention offered an experience that extended well beyond the exhibition floor.
With its growing attendance, diverse programming, and continued ability to attract an impressive roster of guests, Winnipeg Comiccon has firmly established itself as a major annual gathering for Manitoba's pop culture community. After another memorable weekend, fans already have something to look forward to: Winnipeg Comiccon will return to the RBC Convention Centre from October 29–31, 2027.
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