The Ultimate Guide To FAN EXPO Canada 2025: Dates, Guests, And 7 Must-See Highlights

FAN EXPO Canada remains the undisputed champion of pop culture conventions in the Great White North, consistently drawing over 135,000 fans to Toronto for an unforgettable four-day celebration of comics, sci-fi, horror, anime, and gaming. As of the current date, December 15, 2025, the focus is already shifting to the highly anticipated 2025 event, building on the incredible success and star-power of the most recent convention. This comprehensive guide breaks down the confirmed dates, location, celebrity lineup, and the unique programming that makes this event a global phenomenon.

Whether you are a seasoned convention veteran or planning your first trip to the Metro Toronto Convention Centre, understanding the scope and scale of this massive expo is key to a successful weekend. From securing autographs with A-list celebrities and engaging in exclusive photo ops to exploring over 400,000 square feet of vendors, artists, and interactive zones, FAN EXPO Canada offers a deep dive into every corner of modern fandom.

Confirmed Dates and Location for FAN EXPO Canada 2025

The biggest question for any fan is when and where the magic happens. The good news is that the dates and venue for the next major installment are already set, giving attendees plenty of time to plan their ultimate Canadian pop culture pilgrimage.

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• Event: FAN EXPO Canada 2025
• Location: Metro Toronto Convention Centre (MTCC), downtown Toronto, Ontario.
• Confirmed Dates: Thursday, August 21 to Sunday, August 24, 2025.
• Event Hours: The convention typically runs from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM on Thursday (Preview Night for select pass holders), 10:00 AM to 7:00 PM on Friday and Saturday, and 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM on Sunday.

The Metro Toronto Convention Centre, located in the heart of the entertainment district, is the perfect host, utilizing its massive North and South buildings to house the celebrity area, the expansive show floor, the Artist Alley, and numerous panel rooms. Navigating the two buildings is a major part of the experience, and early planning is essential to catch all your favorite events.

The Star Power: A Look at Recent and Expected Celebrity Guests

FAN EXPO Canada is renowned for attracting some of the biggest names in film, television, and voice acting, often securing exclusive appearances that rival any convention worldwide. The caliber of guests from the most recent 2024 event sets a high bar for what fans can expect in 2025.

Recent Major Celebrity Guests (FAN EXPO Canada 2024)

The 2024 lineup was stacked with Oscar winners and stars from major blockbuster franchises, highlighting the event’s ability to secure top-tier talent for autographs and photo opportunities.

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• Simu Liu: Star of Marvel’s Shang-Chi and the Legend of the Ten Rings, bringing his "Kenergy" to Toronto.
• Marisa Tomei: Academy Award winner known for her roles in My Cousin Vinny and the MCU’s Spider-Man films.
• Helen Hunt: Academy Award winner from As Good as It Gets and Twister.
• Bryce Dallas Howard: Star of the Jurassic World franchise and director on The Mandalorian.
• Rosario Dawson: Known for her roles as Ahsoka Tano in the Star Wars universe (Ahsoka, The Mandalorian).
• The Cast of Scream: A major horror reunion, featuring several key actors from the iconic slasher film series.

What to Expect for FAN EXPO Canada 2025 Guests

While the official list of celebrity guests for the 2025 event is still under wraps and will be announced throughout the year, the trend suggests a focus on major franchise anniversaries and current pop culture heavy hitters. Fans should monitor the official FAN EXPO Canada social media channels for the first major announcements, which typically begin in late winter or early spring.

7 Essential Highlights and Experiences You Cannot Miss

FAN EXPO Canada is far more than just celebrity meet-and-greets. The convention is a sprawling ecosystem of unique programming, interactive zones, and a massive marketplace that caters to every niche fandom. Here are seven of the most exciting and essential elements of the FAN EXPO experience that are expected to return in 2025.

1. The Epic Artist Alley and Comic Creator Zone

This is the heart of the comic book, illustration, and independent art community. Hundreds of professional comic book artists, writers, and illustrators—from industry veterans to rising stars—set up shop here. Attendees can commission original artwork, purchase exclusive prints, and get their comics signed. Entities like "Sketch Duels," where comic artists battle it out live on stage, are a perennial favorite.

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2. FAN EXPO 'After Hours' Events

The convention doesn't stop when the main floor closes. The 'After Hours' programming offers unique, ticketed evening events that provide a more intimate or party-like atmosphere. A notable recent example was the "Park After Dark" event featuring the cast of the beloved Canadian comedy, Trailer Park Boys, offering a unique blend of comedy and fan interaction outside of the main convention hours.

3. The Gaming Zone and Esports Tournaments

A massive section of the MTCC is dedicated to all things gaming, including consoles, tabletop games, and retro arcade machines. FAN EXPO Canada hosts a variety of gaming events, from casual free-play areas to competitive esports tournaments, allowing fans of video games and board games to connect and compete throughout the weekend.

4. The Anime Experience and Voice Actor Panels

The Anime community is a huge pillar of the expo. Dedicated programming includes Q&A panels with major Voice Actors from hit series, extensive anime-themed cosplay meetups, and vendors selling exclusive anime memorabilia and merchandise. This zone is a vibrant hub for fans of Japanese animation.

5. Cosplay Showcase and The Masquerade

Cosplayers are the lifeblood of the convention, and the level of craftsmanship on display at FAN EXPO Canada is world-class. The Cosplay Showcase and the annual Masquerade competition are must-see events, celebrating the creativity and dedication of costumed attendees. Even if you don't compete, the opportunity for photo ops with incredible cosplayers is constant.

6. Exclusive Merchandise and The 400,000 Sq Ft Shopping Experience

The show floor is a shopper's paradise. With over 400,000 square feet of retail space, the convention hosts hundreds of vendors selling everything from rare comic books and vintage toys to exclusive apparel and pop culture collectibles. Many companies, such as RSVLTS, often debut exclusive, limited-edition items only available at the expo.

7. The Premium Ticket Tiers and Preview Night Access

For the ultimate fan experience, various ticket tiers—including VIP and Ultimate Passes—offer enhanced benefits. These tiers often include a special Preview Night access on Thursday afternoon, allowing fans to shop the show floor and get early access to select events before the general public, a critical advantage for securing exclusive merchandise and a less-crowded experience. Other benefits typically include separate lines for autographs and photo ops, and exclusive swag.

Practical Guide: Tickets, Tiers, and Tips for Attending

Attending FAN EXPO Canada requires some strategic planning, especially concerning tickets and navigating the massive venue. Ticket prices vary significantly based on the tier and duration of your pass.

Ticket Tiers Explained

While specific dollar amounts change annually, the structure of tickets remains consistent:

• Single-Day Tickets: Admission for one specific day (Friday, Saturday, or Sunday). Saturday is typically the most expensive and crowded day.
• 4-Day Pass: Admission for all four days, including the Thursday Preview Night.
• VIP / Ultimate Passes: Premium tiers that offer benefits like early access to the show floor, front-of-the-line privileges for autographs and photo ops, guaranteed seating at major panels, and exclusive merchandise. These passes are highly recommended for fans with a tight schedule or those who want to see multiple celebrities.

Pro Tip: Autographs and Photo Opportunities with celebrities are almost always a separate purchase from the admission ticket. Be sure to budget accordingly for these interactions. The official FAN EXPO Canada website is the only reliable source for current pricing and availability.

Navigating the Metro Toronto Convention Centre

The MTCC is a vast space, often split between the North and South Buildings. Use the SkyWalk to connect between the convention center and Union Station for easy access via the GO Train and subway. Wear comfortable shoes, stay hydrated, and use the official FAN EXPO app (when available) to plan your schedule, as panels and events run concurrently across multiple rooms. Arriving early, especially on Saturday, is crucial to manage the crowds and line-ups effectively.