It’s a big weekend for Canada’s biggest pop culture enthusiasts! One of the country’s largest fan conventions is right around the corner and if you consider yourself an expert on all things ‘fandom’ related, you will not want to miss Toronto Comicon, running from March 15-17. 

Comicon will take over the Metro Toronto Convention Centre for a weekend adventure for all things sci-fi, fantasy, comic, anime, gaming, and horror. Fans of all ages can enjoy various booths and events with over 400 exhibitors, celebrity Q&A’s, autograph and photo opportunities! This year’s celebrity lineup includes leading women such as Diana Lee Inosanto, Natasia Demetriou, and Christina Chong.

“From beloved icons to spine-tingling villains, and heroes even the tiniest fans adore, this year’s Toronto Comicon line-up is truly exceptional,” said Andrew Moyes, Vice President of FAN EXPO HQ.

This year’s programming will spotlight many Toronto-based artists and creatives and other stars currently filming locally. The excitement this year is unmatched and it is always a joy to witness the creativity and dedication of the cosplayers who attend! Their full schedule of programming is out now and we want to give you the run-down of all the women and art-focused events for the weekend. Here’s what we’re looking forward to: 

Courtesy of Toronto Comicon

 

Creating All Age Comics for The Whole Family 

March 15, 12:00pm

As young readers lean more towards comics, they may ask “what makes a great one?” Stephanie Cooke, award-nominated writer of graphic novels such as ParaNorthern and On My Gods, will discuss the trends, ideas, and business of comics for young readers alongside other comic creators.

 

The Cosplay Red Carpet 

March 15-17 

What better event to attend than one with no registration, no competition, and no stress! This cosplay red carpet is your chance to show off your amazing cosplay to other fans and get a free photo from a professional photographer. No matter the costume, this will be such a fun way to see others and give yourself a pat on the back for your hard work. 

 

Disney Cosplay Meetup

March 15, 11:00am

Who doesn’t love Disney? From the snowy mountains of Arendelle to the dunes of Agrabah, Comicon calls all princesses, princes, heroes, and villains alike to gather for a magical photo. Come out and find your fellow “dis-nerds” for a Cosplay Meetup powered by pixie dust.

 

Fanprov

March 15, 4:00pm

You never know what paths will cross when fan suggestions inspire comedy. Star Wars characters might just cross paths with Ponyo, or Mickey Mouse might be out for dinner with Iron Man. Nonetheless, this improv event is heavily inspired by fans and will be led by attendees for an unforgettable performance. 

 

The Rise of The “Pretty Hero” – Strong Female Characters in Fandom

March 15, 4:15pm

What is it about strong female characters that inspire viewers from all around? Characters like Wonder Woman and Sailor Moon are two to name but why don’t we see more female roles in fandom media? This panel will discuss iconic characters across shows and movies and how all women can stay empowered and inspired through media. 

 

Femme Gaming

March 15-17

Gaming spaces may not always be the most welcoming to women, but this women-led organization aims to create an all-inclusive gamer space. Regardless of gender, their lounge seeks to make visitors feel safe, supported, and empowered to be a part of the gaming and e-sport world. Stop by their booth for photo opportunities, games, and to meet the ladies of Femme Gaming! 

Courtesy of Toronto Comicon

Intro to Cosplay Armor Making

March 16, 11:15am 

There will be so many unique cosplays at Comiccon, so why not learn more about the art of it? This workshop will be hosted by Bamzy, a veteran cosplayer with more than 13 years of experience under her belt. She will show all the ins and outs of cosplaying and teach you techniques to be ready to make your own armour! 

 

Star Trek and Star Wars in Comics 

March 16, 6:00pm

This panel will feature various artists including Heather Antos, an award-winning comic book writer and editor most known for her work on Marvel’s Star Wars and Deadpool lines. She’s also worked as one of the co-creators of Gwenpool! Discussions on themes of science fiction in comics, Star Trek, Star Wars and beyond will be hosted by Captain John Kirk.

 

FG’s Ladies Power Hour: Cosplay and Gaming

March 16, 1:00pm

Step into a world where creativity meets mastery in both cosplay and gaming! This vibrant session will empower women’s stories in both crafts. Spirit and skill are the foundation of great women leading these programs, and attendees can learn all about it at this event!

 

The Lore of Sailor Moon

March 16, 1:15pm

Join Emily Heros and Bear Sailor Moon for this deep dive into the lore of the Sailor Moon franchise.Spanning across the manga and classic series, many have come to know and love the characters. Learn more about the mythology that influenced these storylines and elements, but beware of spoilers!

 

Studio Ghibli Girlboss Part II: Redefining Female Characters since 1985 

March 16, 3:15pm

As a follow-up to last year’s panel, hear more about three of Studio Ghibli’s leading ladies  and their iconic movies! Learn how intelligent, courageous, and independent they are and how they have defined what it means to be a girlboss at this panel!

 

Crowning the Queen of Pop: The Eras Film and the Reign of Taylor Swift 

March 16, 6:15pm

2023 was definitely a year for both Taylor Swift and her fans. She has set the gold standard for musical performances and established her name as one of the most popular artists of the time. Join veteran Swifties and Comicon panellists as they follow her career through the Eras film and the social impact of her fearless reputation. 

Courtesy of Blue Ant Media

Davey and Jonesie’s Locker Premiere 

March 17, 4:00pm

Get ready for Toronto’s Comicon premiere of the new original comedy, Davey and Jonesie’s Locker. There will be an exclusive screening of episode one followed by a moderated panel discussion with stars Veronika Slowikowska and Jaelynn Thora Brooks! Stay tuned because the first 100 fans will receive a limited poster to commemorate the event. 

 

Necessary Puppetry Presentation 

March 17, 12:00pm

It is not everyday you are presented with an opportunity to learn about puppetry from a group of professional puppeteers! Come learn about this art form and join in on a live demo of “Necessary Penguins,” a new puppet show debuting at OUF!, part of Montreal’s renowned “Festival de Casteliers.” 

 

Canadian Podcast Award Presents: Semi-Qualified Queens

March 17, 12:00pm

This Canadian Podcast Award winning show talked all things Drag Race, with tangents, trauma and tea spilled along the way. Questions like “Have you ever wondered what happens to Drag Queens after reality TV?,” will be answered by Synthia and Juice gab as they gossip while giving you a DragRace recap for the week! 

 

For more info, see the full schedule of Comicon events here.