Everything you need to know about Blackpool Comic-Con 2026 including celebrity guests, trades, and cosplay

Blackpool’s Norbreck Hotel is set to host a full day of pop culture entertainment later this weekend, as Comic-Con returns with a mix of celebrity guests, activities and fan-led events.

Taking place on 26 April from 10am to 4pm, the event aims to bring together fans of comics, film, television, gaming, anime and cosplay under one roof, with organisers billing it as a family-friendly day out.

What is Blackpool Comic-Con?

Blackpool Comic-Con is a one-day event celebrating a wide range of pop culture interests, from sci-fi and fantasy to gaming and anime. Visitors can expect displays, props, merchandise stalls and the chance to meet guests from film and television.

The event is designed to appeal to a broad audience, including collectors, families and dedicated fans. Attendees are also encouraged to take part in cosplay, dressing as their favourite fictional characters.

Celebrity guests

A number of well-known names from screen and stage are scheduled to appear for in-person meet-and-greets. These include Brian Blessed, Craig Charles, Garrick Hagon, Danny John-Jules and Russell Payne.

Activities and family entertainment

Alongside the main attractions, the event will include a range of informal activities organised by Creed Convention. These are set to include a LEGO play pit, colouring areas, treasure hunts and other interactive entertainment.

The activities are designed to be accessible for both younger visitors and adults, offering flexible, drop-in options throughout the day.

Trader Zone

A dedicated Trader Zone will feature independent sellers offering a variety of pop culture-related items. Visitors can browse collectibles, artwork, trading cards, figures, clothing and fan-made products.

The selection of goods will vary depending on the traders on the day.

Guest talks and panels

The event will also host a series of guest talks, giving attendees the chance to hear directly from celebrity guests. These sessions may include interviews, Q&A segments and discussions about careers in film, television and gaming.

Full timings and session details are expected to be confirmed closer to the event.

Gaming Zone

A Gaming Zone will be available, offering visitors the chance to play a selection of console games. The area is intended to provide a relaxed, hands-on experience for all ages, whether revisiting familiar titles or trying something new.

Cosplay parade and competition

Cosplay is expected to be a central part of the event, with a parade and competition open to all attendees at no extra cost.

Participants can sign up on arrival and enter one of three categories: Best Handmade, Best Under-16s and Best Over-16s. The parade is scheduled to take place on the main stage at around 2pm, although timings may vary.

Entrants will be invited on stage individually to present their costumes before judges select winners. Prizes are set at £30 for first place, £15 for second and £10 for third in each category, with all receiving a commemorative pin badge.

Tickets and entry rules

Ticket prices vary depending on how and when they are purchased. Early bird online tickets are priced at £12 plus booking fees.

Standard online prices are £9 for adults, £5 for children and £25 for a family ticket, which covers either one adult and up to three children or two adults and up to two children.

If tickets are still available on the door, early bird entry is £14, adult tickets are £11, child tickets are £7 and family tickets are £28.

Anyone under the age of 15 must be accompanied by an adult aged 18 or over, while children under 12 must be supervised at all times during the event.

For more information, head to https://www.creedconventions.com/event/blackpool-comic-con-2/