Mad Monster Party Arizona 2025

Mad Monster Party Arizona 2025: Spooky Fun Awaits in Glendale This July

Are you ready for a horror convention so fun it’s scary? Mark your calendars for Mad Monster Party Arizona 2025 – a frightfully fantastic event bringing horror icons, cosplay, and after-hours spooky revelry to the Phoenix area. This year’s Mad Monster Party takes place July 11–13, 2025 at the Renaissance Phoenix Glendale Hotel & Spa, transforming the upscale venue into a haunted playground of monsters and fans. Whether you’re a die-hard horror nerd or just looking for a unique summer event, this Glendale, AZ convention promises a spooktacular weekend you won’t forget.

When & Where: Haunted Hotel Horror in Glendale, AZ

Mad Monster Party Arizona 2025 runs from Friday, July 11 through Sunday, July 13, 2025 at the Renaissance Phoenix Glendale Hotel & Spa (9495 W. Entertainment Blvd, Glendale, AZ). Each day of this horror convention has different hours (Friday 6pm–11pm; Saturday 11am–7pm; Sunday 11am–5pm) (Mad Monster Party Arizona 2025 - Mad Monster), giving you three days and nights of MADness to enjoy. The Renaissance Glendale will feel like a “haunted hotel” for the weekend – expect its halls to be filled with costumed creatures, eerie decor, and the buzz of excited horror fans.

Located in Glendale (part of the Phoenix metro area), the venue is easy to reach and surrounded by shops and restaurants at Westgate Entertainment District – so you can grab a bite between frights. You might even consider booking a room on-site to stay in the heart of the action (if you dare spend the night in a hotel full of monsters!). The atmosphere will be casual and welcoming, but with a delightfully spooky twist – perfect for first-timers and horror veterans alike.

Celebrity Guests to Give You Goosebumps 👻

One of the biggest draws of Mad Monster Party Arizona is the killer lineup of celebrity guests. Horror icons and fan-favorite stars will be on hand to sign autographs, take photos, and do Q&A panels. The Mad Monster Glendale guests this year include genre legends from classic slashers, modern horror, and even pro wrestling. Here are some of the star guests announced for 2025:

• Robert Englund – Yes, Freddy Krueger himself will be in attendance! Englund, who portrayed the razor-gloved boogeyman in the A Nightmare on Elm Street series, is making a special appearance (offering professional photo-ops only – no table selfies. One, two, Freddy’s coming for you… to Glendale!

• A Nightmare on Elm Street Reunion – In addition to Robert Englund, several actresses from the Elm Street series will be on hand. Amanda Wyss (who played Tina, Freddy’s very first victim in the original Nightmare), Brooke Bundy (Elaine Parker in Nightmare 3 & 4), and Brooke Theiss (Debbie from Nightmare 4 – remember the cockroach scene?) are all scheduled to atten . Elm Street fans can meet these leading ladies of their nightmares and perhaps get some behind-the-scenes tidbits from the 80s films.

• Brad Dourif – Horror fans know him as the voice of Chucky in the Child’s Play films, among many other roles. Brad Dourif (the man behind the murderous doll) is “your friend till the end” and will be meeting fans at Mad Monster Party Arizona 202. This is a rare chance to meet the actor who brought Chucky’s cackle to life on screen.

• David Arquette – Actor and Scream alumni David Arquette (who played Deputy Dewey Riley in the Scream franchise) is coming to Mad Monster Party AZ as wel (. He’s also known for Eight Legged Freaks and even holds a bit of horror history as a former “Halloween Havoc” pro wrestling champion in real life. Meet Arquette and ask him what it was like facing Ghostface and giant spiders!

• Kane Hodder – The man behind the mask of Jason Voorhees in four Friday the 13th films (parts VII–X) and the hatchet-wielding Victor Crowley in the Hatchet series. Kane Hodder is a fan-favorite at horror cons – expect a bone-crushing handshake and great stories of playing an indestructible killer.

• Ken Kirzinger – Another actor who donned the hockey mask, Ken Kirzinger portrayed Jason in Freddy vs. Jason. He actually went toe-to-claw with Robert Englund in that film, so having both Freddy and this Jason in person is a treat. (They’re even doing a special Freddy vs. Jason dual photo-op at the event for the ultimate fan souvenir!)

• And more, including: Fiona Dourif, Danielle Harris, Saraya-Jade Bevis, Griffin Dunne, Michael Paré, Kim Director! The organizers hint that even more guest announcements may be coming . In past years, Mad Monster Party Arizona has hosted 30+ celebrity guest , so the roster is stacked. You never know who else might show up – perhaps a surprise appearance by another horror legend or a cult film favorite. Keep an eye on their social media for last-minute additions.

With such a diverse and star-studded cast of Mad Monster Party Arizona 2025 guests , there’s someone for every horror fan to get excited about. Many of these celebrities will be signing autographs and taking photos all weekend (just note that most do charge fees for autographs/selfies, and some like Englund only do pro photo-ops). All guests are scheduled for all three days unless otherwise note , but as always, appearances are subject to change due to unforeseen circumstances. So cross your fingers that all your favorites make it – and maybe practice your best “don’t fangirl too hard” face for when you meet them!

Killer Events & Activities All Weekend

Mad Monster Party isn’t just about meeting celebs – it’s an immersive experience with tons of activities, vendors, and entertainment for attendees. Here are some of the frightful events and attractions you can look forward to at Arizona’s horror convention of the year:

• Cosplay & Costume Contest: Break out your most creative creepy costume for the Mad Monster Party cosplay contest in Glendale, AZ. Whether you dress as a screen-accurate Michael Myers or a mash-up like “Zombie Disney Princess,” all are welcome. The con invites fans to *enter the costume contest for cash prizes , so you might even win some loot for your DIY monster outfit. Cosplayers roam the hotel all weekend, making for killer photo ops. The contest itself is a highlight, with categories for different ages or themes, and big applause for the winners. Even if you’re too shy to compete, the Saturday night costume showcase is a must-see spectacle of spooky creativity.

• Q&A Panels: Ever wanted to ask a horror icon a question? Throughout the weekend, there will be Q&A panels and discussions where the celebrity guests chat about their experiences and take fan questions. These panels are usually included with admission and provide some of the most memorable moments. Imagine hearing Brad Dourif do the Chucky laugh in person, or Robert Englund recount a behind-the-scenes prank from the Elm Street set! Panels are typically moderated and run during the day – expect topics like the legacy of Nightmare on Elm Street, the making of Scream, women in horror (with folks like Danielle Harris and Fiona Dourif), and more. Check the final schedule (usually released closer to the event) so you don’t miss your dream panel.

• After-Hours Parties & Scaraoke: When the show floor closes, the spooky fun keeps going. On Friday and Saturday night, stick around for after-hours events that let you party with other attendees. One signature event is “Scaraoke” – scary karaoke – where you can “kill” your favorite songs on the mi. Belt out “Monster Mash,” channel Ozzy Osbourne, or serenade the crowd with “Time Warp” from Rocky Horror. Costumes + karaoke = a hilariously good time (imagine Ghostface singing pop songs, or Elvira doing heavy metal!). The hotel will have bars open for liquid courage (it is a 21+ friendly event in the evenings; under 18 might have curfews on karaoke). In addition to Scaraoke, there may be a themed party or mixer – past Mad Monster events have done an 80s horror prom night, a zombie pin-up contest, and other ghoulish gatherings. These parties are generally free for attendees (most after-party events are included with your con admission , so everyone can mingle and have fun. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself dancing with a zombie or having a drink with someone in a Freddy costume!

• Exhibitor Hall – “Merchants of the Macabre”: Bring your spending money, because the vendor room will be full of temptations. Mad Monster Party Arizona boasts a curated selection of *exhibitors from all over the country  selling horror memorabilia, art, collectibles, clothing, props, and more. You can shop for rare horror DVDs, handmade jewelry, movie posters, spooky home décor, monster masks, and of course lots of Funko Pops and action figures. Meet local artists who create ghastly artwork, or snag that vintage Creature from the Black Lagoon poster you’ve been hunting. It’s the perfect place to pick up a souvenir (or three) and support small businesses that cater to our horror and pop culture obsessions.

• Workshops and Photo Displays: Beyond the main events, keep an eye out for other cool happenings. There may be makeup FX demonstrations, horror short film screenings, or workshops on topics like cosplay crafting or indie filmmaking. Some conventions also feature galleries of fan art or a museum of monster props/costumes. While Mad Monster hasn’t released all details yet, they often have a few extra surprises to enhance the experience for fans roaming the convention floor. Even just people-watching is entertainment – you’ll see kids in adorable costumes, adults in incredibly elaborate creature get-ups, and maybe even a celeb casually walking around.

With panels, parties, contests, and more, Mad Monster Party offers an immersive horror-themed carnival atmosphere. You can be as active or as laid-back as you want: chase down every event on the schedule, or just hang out in the hotel lobby in costume and make new friends. The vibe is super friendly and inclusive – it’s like a big Halloween family reunion in the middle of summer. Don’t worry if you can’t attend all three days, either; each day has unique highlights (Friday’s kickoff and Scaraoke, Saturday’s peak hours and costume contest, Sunday’s more relaxed vibe and last-chance shopping). But if you can swing the whole weekend, you’ll get the full “Shriekend” experience!

Tips to Make the Most of the MADness

To ensure you have a killer time at Mad Monster Party Arizona 2025, here are a few quick tips and reminders:

• Tickets: Grab your tickets in advance online if possible. You can buy single-day passes or a full-weekend (Shriekend) pass. Prices are reasonable (around $35–$45 for single days, and there’s often a discounted weekend bundle) – but note that *prices go up at the door . Save some cash by securing your pass early. Also, special event tickets like photo ops can be purchased ahead on the Mad Monster website. Popular photo ops (e.g. Robert Englund’s) may sell out, so don’t procrastinate if you want those.

• Hotel & Parking: If you’re local to Phoenix, the Glendale location is an easy drive. The Renaissance Phoenix Glendale has parking and there are additional lots at Westgate. If you want the full experience, consider booking a room at the hotel – that way you have a home base to drop off merch, change costumes, or take a breather. Plus, you won’t have to worry about driving after late-night Scaraoke. The hotel might offer a special convention rate; check the Mad Monster site for a *hotel link  and book early, as rooms can sell out with all these monsters in town.

• All Ages Welcome: Despite the spooky theme, this event is family-friendly. In fact, kids 12 and under get in FREE with a paid adult! If you have young horror fans or Halloween-loving kids, bring them along (daytime is best for kids – the little ones might get tired or spooked at the late parties). There will be plenty of tame fun for them, including seeing costumed characters (maybe a chance to high-five a Ghostbuster or take a pic with a friendly Frankenstein). Just use parental discretion on what events to attend; some panels might discuss R-rated film stuff, and the after-hours scene is more adult-oriented.

• Bring Cash: Many vendors and celeb tables accept cards now, but it’s always smart to have some cash on hand for quicker transactions, especially for autograph lines. Small bills are useful if a celeb charges, say, $40 for a signed 8x10 – it saves time if you have exact change. There may be ATMs on-site, but they often have fees and lines.

• Costume Comfort: If you’re cosplaying, remember Arizona in July is HOT (though the convention is indoors with blessed AC). Plan your costume accordingly – you might want lighter materials or to take breaks so you don’t melt like a witch in water. Also, cosplay is not consent: the event will have rules to ensure everyone feels safe. Always ask before taking photos of or with someone, and be respectful. The organizers have a zero-tolerance policy for harassment or really inappropriate attire (so maybe save the super gory stuff for after hours). Generally, the crowd is awesome and inclusive.

Join the Monster Mash – Don’t Miss Out!

Mad Monster Party Arizona 2025 is shaping up to be one of the biggest horror conventions of the summer. It’s the ultimate gathering for horror buffs in Phoenix, with celebrity guests, cosplay contests, Q&A panels, and after-hours parties all under one (haunted) roof. Whether you’re excited to meet the actors who gave you nightmares, show off your costume creation, or just soak in the spooky atmosphere, this event has something for every fan of the macabre. As the organizers like to say, it’s *“Arizona’s Horror & Pop Culture event of the year”  – and they aren’t kidding. The combination of stars, events, and enthusiastic community makes it a monster of a good time.

So dust off your Freddy glove, polish your vampire fangs, and get ready to party with fellow creatures of the night. 🎉 Mad Monster Party Arizona 2025 is creeping up soon – July 11–13 in Glendale – and it’s an event you’ll be howling about afterward. Grab your tickets now (before they vanish into smoke), prep your camera for celeb selfies, and prepare for a weekend of chills, thrills, and ghoulishly good fun. Don’t miss the chance to make killer summer memories at this haunted happening. As Chucky would say, “Attending will be a real scream – wanna play?” 😈👹

Get ready to join the MADness – see you at Mad Monster Party Arizona 2025!

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For more info, tickets, and updates, visit the official Mad Monster Party Arizona web (Mad Monster Party Arizona 2025 | Mad Monster) and remember: the freaks come out at night… in Glendale this summer!

Fan Conventions & Pop-Culture Events – Spring 2025

Calling all geeks, gamers, and pop-culture lovers! Arizona’s fan convention scene is thriving in 2025, with events for every fandom. Comic conventions, anime festivals, and fan gatherings are popping up throughout the spring. Cosplay is absolutely welcome – even encouraged – at these events where you can meet celebrity guests, attend panels, shop for collectibles, and geek out with fellow fans. Here are the big upcoming fan conventions in AZ for March, April, and May 2025:

Anime Arizona 2025 (March 21–23, 2025)

• What & Where: An anime and Japanese pop-culture convention held at the Renaissance Phoenix Glendale Hotel & Spa in Glendale, AZ​. This is Anime Arizona’s third year running, and it’s growing fast as a go-to event for anime enthusiasts in the Southwest.
• Highlights: Voice Actor Guests from popular anime series will be signing autographs and doing Q&A panels. Expect cosplayers everywhere – from Demon Slayer Hashira to My Hero Academia students – with formal cosplay contests as well as casual meetups. There’s a full slate of programming: anime screenings, art workshops, cosplay chess, and late-night karaoke. The vendor hall will be packed with anime merch, artwork, manga, and imports (bring spending money for that rare figurine or plushie!). Since this con is relatively new, the vibe is super friendly and fan-driven. It’s a perfect place to wear your cosplay all weekend and make new otaku friends.

Anime Arizona proves you don’t have to wait for the big summer cons to celebrate your fandom. Pro tip: If you plan to attend all three days, snag a weekend pass early – last year’s sold out. The hotel venue means you can also find rooms on-site (so convenient for costume changes or dropping off merch hauls). And don’t skip the anime rave dance on Saturday night – it’s a high-energy dance party with DJs spinning J-pop, K-pop, and anime remixes that’s become a highlight of the con. Whether you’re into shounen, shojo, or Studio Ghibli, Anime Arizona is the spring gathering for the anime community.

Wild Wild West Steampunk Convention (March 20–23, 2025)

• What & Where: The 13th annual Wild Wild West Steampunk Convention – one of the most unique fan events – taking place at Casino del Sol in Tucson, AZ​. This convention celebrates steampunk culture, a blend of Victorian-era aesthetics and sci-fi technology. It’s essentially a giant themed costume party with a retro-futuristic twist!
• Highlights: This year’s WWWC will feature immersive Wild West Steampunk activities: think dueling with nerf guns at high noon, parasol dueling contests (yes, that’s a thing), and a Victorian fashion show. Attendees go all out with incredible steampunk outfits – expect goggles, top hats, corsets, and creative gizmos galore. There will be special guest authors and makers in the steampunk genre, plus live entertainment like Tea Dueling ceremonies, dirigible (balloon) races, and a penny-farthing bicycle parade. By night, enjoy the Steampunk masquerade ball with dancing and live period-style music. The con also has workshops on DIY prop-making (learn to build your own ray gun or modify Nerf guns to look old-timey) and a bustling vendor bazaar selling handcrafted steampunk jewelry, costumes, leatherwork, and gadgets.

Set in a resort, this convention creates an atmosphere like you’ve stepped into an alternate 19th century. You can wander an Old West town one moment and an airship pirates’ lounge the next. New to steampunk? No worries – there are newbie workshops and everyone is welcoming. Grab a cup of tea at the High Tea service and mingle with inventors and explorers from an era that never was. Don’t forget your camera – the costumes and contraptions make for amazing photos. Wild Wild West Steampunk Con is a testament to fan creativity and a chance to live in a fantasy world for a weekend.

Game On Expo (April 4–6, 2025)

• What & Where: A multi-genre gaming convention at the Phoenix Convention Center, celebrating video games, tabletop games, and pop culture​. Game On Expo is now in its 11th year and has become the Southwest’s premier gaming event​.
• Highlights: Gaming tournaments everywhere! From esports contests in modern games (think Smash Bros., Street Fighter, Fortnite) to retro gaming competitions on classic arcade and console games, there’s something for every gamer. They’ll have a massive free-play arcade with vintage pinball and arcade cabinets, LAN areas for PC gamers, and console setups spanning Atari to PS5. Tabletop more your style? There’s a whole hall for tabletop RPGs, board games, and TCGs (expect Magic: The Gathering drafts and maybe a Pokémon card tournament). Special Guests: You can meet renowned game developers, YouTube/Twitch gaming personalities, and voice actors from famous games. The vendor hall is a treasure trove of geek merch: retro game cartridges, rare collectibles, custom art, and indie game demos. Families will enjoy the kid-friendly gaming zone and cosplay contests (gaming character cosplays encouraged!).

Game On Expo is basically gamer heaven for a weekend – a place to bond with fellow players and revisit the nostalgia of games you grew up with. Try out the newest VR experiences one minute, then enter a high-score contest on Pac-Man the next. The energy is electric: you’ll hear 8-bit music, arcade sound effects, cheers from a fighting game tourney, and maybe a life-size Pikachu wandering by. Insider tip: Sign up early for any limited-seating tournaments or D&D sessions via their website, as spots fill fast. And if you’re chasing retro games, hit the vendor hall early for the best selection (and bring your old games to trade or sell!). Whether you’re a hardcore gamer or a casual fan, Game On Expo is an inclusive celebration of all things gaming and geek.

Phoenix Fan Fusion 2025 (June 6–8, 2025) – Coming Soon!

Arizona’s biggest pop-culture convention actually takes place in early June, but we’d be remiss not to mention it so you can plan ahead. Phoenix Fan Fusion (formerly Phoenix Comic Con) will return to the Phoenix Convention Center on June 6–8, 2025​. This is the Comic Con mega-event of the year in Arizona – a giant convergence of comics, sci-fi, fantasy, anime, and pop culture across all genres.

• Why Mention It Now: Tickets go on sale early and hotels book up fast, so spring is the time to start planning if you want to attend. Phoenix Fan Fusion draws tens of thousands of attendees and major celebrity guests from movies, TV, comics, and literature. Past years have featured stars from the Marvel Cinematic Universe, Star Wars, popular TV series, voice actors, best-selling authors, and more.
• What to Expect: Imagine a massive exhibit hall packed with geeky vendors and artists, plus over a dozen programming tracks of panels, workshops, signings, photo ops, and cosplay showcases. You can attend a Q&A with your favorite actor, get a comic signed by its artist, learn how to build cosplay armor, and debate sci-fi theories on fan panels all in one day. The cosplay presence is huge – you’ll see amazingly crafted costumes everywhere (don’t be shy to dress up!). There are also evening events like a masquerade costume contest, dance parties, and after-hours fandom meetups. It’s an all-ages affair by day (lots of families and kids in cosplay), with some 18+ content in the late hours.

Consider Fan Fusion the Comic-Con of Arizona – it’s on par with some of the big national cons in terms of scope and guest lineup. In fact, 2025 marks the con’s 24th year​, so they know how to put on a great show. Keep an eye on their official announcements for guest reveals; rumor has it some first-time guests to Arizona will be appearing (perhaps a few big-name superheroes or sci-fi icons). If you love anything pop culture, you’ll find your community here – whether it’s the Star Wars fan club doing lightsaber training, the Browncoats (Firefly fans) singing shanties, or the Disneybounding meet-up group snapping photos. Start preparing your cosplays and savings now – early June will be here before you know it, and Phoenix Fan Fusion 2025 is poised to be epic.

Other Fan Events & Pop-Culture Highlights:

• Horror & Monster Conventions: Horror fans, take note – while the big HORROR FEST in Arizona isn’t until October, there are smaller gatherings in summer like Mad Monster Party Arizona (usually July in the Phoenix area) and Days of the Dead horror con (July 11–13, 2025 in Phoenix​). These events bring horror movie celebs, FX artists, and spooky merch vendors. If you love all things creepy, keep an eye out for these after spring. They’re a great place to celebrate Halloween vibes year-round with fellow horror aficionados.
• King-Con (May 24–25, 2025 in Kingman, AZ): A newer pop culture convention serving fans in northern AZ. King-Con is a smaller, community-driven con held at the Mohave County Fairgrounds​. It features a bit of everything – comics, sci-fi, anime – with local artists, panel discussions, and cosplay contests. It’s wonderful to see fan culture spreading to all corners of Arizona, not just the big cities. Road trip to Kingman over Memorial Day weekend and support a growing fan event; you might meet some indie comic creators or snag vintage collectibles in a more intimate setting.
• Detonation – Wastelanders Weekend (May 5–11, 2025): One of the most offbeat fan gatherings, Detonation is an immersive post-apocalyptic festival in the Arizona desert​. Held at a remote area called Uranium Springs (east of Holbrook), it’s like stepping into a Mad Max film. Attendees create a temporary post-apocalyptic town complete with themed camps, costuming, and role-play. There are barter markets (no money, just trade goods), Thunderdome-style combat games, and nightly parties around bonfires with cars rigged out like war machines. It’s 18+ and not for the timid, but if the idea of a weekend LARP in a Fallout-esque wasteland excites you, Detonation is the ultimate escape from reality. Pack your goggles and spiked shoulder pads, and get ready to get dusty!

Arizona’s fan convention scene truly offers something for every flavor of geekdom. Cosplay your heart out, be respectful to fellow fans, and most importantly, have fun and embrace the welcoming community at these events. Whether it’s hunting autographs, discovering a new indie comic, or dancing with fellow nerds at a con rave, you’ll make unforgettable memories. As they say in the con world: keep calm and cosplay on! And don’t forget to pre-register when you can – these events often offer early-bird discounts and insider newsletters so you won’t miss a thing.

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HORROR FEST 2025 – Horror Convention in Arizona!

HORROR FEST 2025 – The Ultimate Spooky Horror Convention Returns to Arizona!

Calling all horror fans and pop culture enthusiasts! The countdown has begun for HORROR FEST 2025, Arizona’s ultimate horror convention that promises a frightfully good time. This 3-day event will kick off the Halloween season with a scream, bringing together celebrity guests, talented horror artists, spooky vendors, and thrilling attractions for fans of all ages​. Whether you’re a die-hard horror movie buff or just love all things creepy and fun, HORROR FEST 2025 is the place to be this October.

When and Where: Event Details 🎃

Mark your calendars for October 3–5, 2025 (Friday through Sunday) – HORROR FEST 2025 takes over the DoubleTree Hilton Tempe Conference Center in Tempe, Arizona​. The haunted happenings run Friday 4pm–9pm, Saturday 10am–7pm, and Sunday 10am–5pm​, giving you three days of spooky celebration. The new Tempe venue offers plenty of space and perks like FREE parking and discounted hotel room rates for attendees​, so out-of-town ghouls can stay close to the action. Located just minutes from Phoenix, this horror convention is easily accessible – and kids 12 and under get in FREE, making it a family-friendly fright fest! (Costumes are encouraged for kids and adults alike, so dust off your vampire cape or zombie makeup!)

Famous Horror Celebrity Guests 👻

One of the biggest thrills of any horror convention is rubbing shoulders with the genre’s stars, and HORROR FEST 2025 has an exciting lineup of celebrity guests ready to give you chills. The organizers pride themselves on bringing in fresh faces who’ve never appeared at an Arizona con before​, so get ready to meet some horror icons making their AZ debut! Confirmed guests include:

• Sarah Voigt – Known for her memorable (and gruesome!) portrayal of Barbara Shaw in Terrifier 2, Sarah Voigt is making her first-ever Arizona convention appearance​. Terrifier fans won’t want to miss meeting this scream queen in person.
• Elizabeth Saunders – The actress who brought Donna to life in MGM+’s acclaimed horror series FROM is also appearing at HORROR FEST 2025 in her Arizona debut​. Elizabeth’s credits span horror hits like IT Chapter 1 & 2, Orphan Black, and The Strain​– perfect for fans of both film and TV frights.
• More to Come! The guest list is still growing. (Who will they be? Stay tuned to find out which other horror heavyweights will haunt Tempe this fall!)

In addition to signings and photo ops with these celebrity guests, HORROR FEST 2025 will feature live entertainment on stage. For example, Arizona’s top horror podcast Scaredy Cast will be returning to host live interviews and discussions all weekend​. Imagine sitting in on a spine-chilling Q&A panel or catching a live podcast episode as horror stars share behind-the-scenes stories – it’s all part of the HORROR FEST experience. You might even bump into other surprise horror personalities roaming the show floor or checking out the fun themselves!

Ghoulish Artists and Spooky Vendors 🕸️

Prepare to shop ‘til you drop (dead) in the Horror Fest vendor hall! The convention will host a massive marketplace of horror artists, exhibitors, and spooky vendors selling everything a horror fan could desire. In fact, over 115 terrifying vendors are expected to be there​, making it one of the largest gatherings of horror-themed sellers in the Southwest. You’ll find:

• Horror Artwork & Comics: Meet indie comic creators and illustrators with booths full of horror art prints, comic books, and paintings of monsters and mayhem. Get your hands on original artwork, posters, and commissions from talented horror artists who bring nightmares to life on the page.
• Collectibles & Props: Discover rare horror collectibles, custom figures, and props. From vintage slasher movie merch to handcrafted replicas of famous horror props, the vendors have it all. (Keep an eye out for Horror Monger Collectibles – one of the newest sponsors – who may bring an array of creepy cool toys and memorabilia!)
• Apparel & Accessories: Update your wardrobe with frightful fashion. T-shirts, costumes, jewelry, and accessories inspired by horror and pop culture will be available from numerous vendors. Local costume shop Evil Izzy’s Haunted Emporium – a returning Horror Fest sponsor – is known as the premier costume headquarters in Phoenix and will likely have a booth of killer outfits and masks for sale. Perfect if you need last-minute cosplay gear for the con!
• Spooky Crafts & Treats: Not everything is blood and gore – some vendors add a crafty or even sweet touch. You might find horror-themed candles, sculptures, and Halloween home décor. 

Strolling through the vendor hall is an experience in itself. You can chat with creators about their inspiration, snag autographs or sketches from artist guests, and buy unique, handmade horror swag you won’t find in any regular store. It’s the perfect chance to support small businesses and independent artists who share your passion for the macabre. And don’t be afraid to show off your own cosplay while shopping – many vendors love when fans arrive in costume (and you might get a discount or a free treat for being dressed to impress!).

Special Attractions and Eerie Entertainment 💀

HORROR FEST 2025 isn’t just about shopping and celebrity meet-and-greets – it’s packed with fun activities and attractions to keep you entertained all weekend long. Here are some spooktacular attractions you can look forward to:

• Costume Contest: Dust off your creepiest costume for the Horror Fest costume contest! This event has become a highlight each year, with amazing cosplay from horror movies, TV, gaming, and original creations. Show off your look on stage Saturday night for a chance to win prizes (and serious bragging rights). From evil clowns to undead brides, you’ll see it all. Don’t be shy – everyone is welcome to participate or cheer on the contestants during this frightfully fun showcase.
• Trick-or-Treating: Keeping with the spirit of Halloween, the convention offers trick-or-treating opportunities, especially for the little ones​. Kids (and let’s be honest, candy-loving adults too!) can collect treats at designated vendor booths on certain days. It’s a safe and fun way to enjoy Halloween traditions inside the con. Bring a treat bag and indulge your sweet tooth while strolling the halls.
• Walkthrough Haunted House: Do you dare enter the Horror Fest haunted house? New for 2025, there will be an interactive walkthrough haunted attraction right at the event​. Brave attendees can step into a mini haunted house filled with creepy actors and spooky scenery that will have you screaming for more​! It’s like a horror movie come to life. (Pro tip: this is a perfect warm-up for the many haunted houses that pop up around Phoenix each October – consider it training for your nerves.)
• Killer Rides & Photo Ops: Get your cameras ready! HORROR FEST will feature “Killer Rides” – iconic horror-themed vehicles on display​. You might see a tricked-out hearse, a spooky van, or even famous movie cars (could that be the Christine car or the Ghostbusters Ecto-1 lurking around?). These vehicles make epic backdrops for photos. Throughout the con, you’ll also find tons of creepy photo opportunities​: themed sets, props, and backdrops where you can pose with zombies, monsters, or your favorite horror characters. Share your pics on social media to make all your friends jealous of the ghastly fun you’re having!
• Panels, Podcasts & Screenings: Beyond the showroom floor, make time for panel discussions and screenings. Horror Fest often has panel sessions with the celebrity guests – imagine hearing behind-the-scenes stories from Terrifier 2 or getting acting tips from a horror veteran. There may also be sneak peeks or advance movie screenings of upcoming horror flicks (stay tuned to announcements – last year featured an exclusive photo-op tied to the movie SMILE 2, for example). And don’t forget to catch the live recordings of Scaredy Cast, where the hosts will chat with Horror Fest guests and dive into all things paranormal and pop culture​. It’s like a live horror talk show right on the convention floor!

With all these attractions – plus music, giveaways, and more – there’s never a dull moment at HORROR FEST. You can spend the morning shopping for rare collectibles, enjoy an afternoon panel with your horror heroes or grabbing a drink at the hotel bar with fellow fans. (The 2024 fest featured a Saturday night Hackers movie-themed rave – who knows what 2025 has in store!). One thing’s for sure: you’ll make unforgettable memories and new fiendish friends.

Sponsors and Community 🎟️🕷️

An event as epic as HORROR FEST 2025 comes to unholy life thanks to a dedicated community and generous sponsors. This convention is produced by Artists Assemble Productions (with 28 years in the entertainment industry organizing horror/pop culture events​), and they’ve rallied some awesome local sponsors to support the fun. For instance, Travel, Attractions, and Events – a local guide that highlights things to do around Arizona – has signed on as a sponsor​. Their involvement means attendees can discover even more haunted attractions and travel hot-spots in the area, turning your Horror Fest trip into a full vacation. Another notable sponsor is Return of the Giving Dead – a charity cosplay duo who use their love of horror to give back to the community​. HORROR FEST 2025 has chosen this charity as an official partner, so part of the event’s proceeds or activities will benefit a good cause (horror with a heart!).

You’ll also see booths and signage from other sponsors. These local businesses and organizations all share a passion for horror and pop culture, and they help make the convention possible. Be sure to check them out and say hello, by supporting them, you’re supporting the whole horror fan community. 👏

Don’t Miss Out – Get Your Tickets Now! 🔥

HORROR FEST 2025 is shaping up to be the horror event of the year in Arizona. Between the star-studded celebrity guest list, the massive vendor bazaar, and all the eerie extras planned, it’s an experience no horror fan will want to miss. Tickets are on sale now and early-bird discounts may be available for a limited time. We recommend snagging your passes in advance – not only do you save money, but you’ll avoid the dread of a sell-out scenario as the event draws near. (In past years, VIP packages and special event tickets have sold out quickly once announced!)

General admission tickets can be purchased for single days or as a weekend pass. If you’re a hardcore fan, consider the Weekend Pass so you have unlimited access to all three days of fearsome fun​. And for the ultimate Horror Fest experience, keep an eye out for VIP tickets. VIP passes typically come with fang-tastic perks like early entry to the convention each day, an exclusive VIP swag bag, priority seating at panels, and even front-of-line privileges for celebrity photo ops. (Plus, who wouldn’t want to brag about being a VIP at a horror con?) VIP tickets will be limited, so jump on them as soon as they become available – as of now the organizers have hinted they’re “coming soon”​, and a recent update noted that VIP tickets were running low, so don’t sleep on it (vampires never sleep, after all!).

Ready to secure your spot at HORROR FEST 2025? Grab your tickets now on the official ticket page 🎟️. The sooner you book, the sooner you can start planning your killer cosplay and scheduling your must-see panels and photo ops. 

Lastly, to stay updated on the latest guest announcements, schedules, and spooky surprises, be sure to follow HORROR FEST 2025 on social media. The organizers post regular updates on their Facebook page and Instagram – including surprise guest reveals, vendor spotlights, and fun contests as the event approaches. You might even catch sneak peeks of the exclusive merchandise or interactive props that will be at the show. Joining the event’s online community is a great way to connect with fellow attendees, ask questions, and share your excitement.

In summary: HORROR FEST 2025 is a horror convention that combines the thrills of a fan expo (celebs! panels! merch!) with the festive fun of Halloween (costumes! candy! haunted houses!). It’s fun, spooky, and informative – everything a horror fan could want. So assemble your horror-loving friends, start working on those costumes, and get ready for an unforgettable weekend of horror this October. Grab your tickets, practice your scariest scream, and we’ll see you in Tempe for HORROR FEST 2025 – where Halloween comes to life a few weeks early! Don’t miss the fright-fest that everyone will be talking about. See you there… if you dare! 👻🎫🎉