Explore haunted attractions, theme parks, and vacation spots across Arizona, Southern California, and Las Vegas. From ghost tours and escape rooms to family trips to Disneyland and Universal Studios, dive into reviews and articles on entertainment, nostalgia, and the paranormal. Whether you're chasing thrills or uncovering eerie legends, this blog is your gateway to unforgettable adventures.
Phoenix Fan Fusion 2025: Arizona’s Ultimate Geek Convention is Back!
Grab your cosplay, charge your lightsabers, and practice your best “Wakanda Forever” pose because Phoenix Fan Fusion is coming back in 2025 — and it's gonna be bigger, bolder, and geekier than ever!
This pop-culture mega-event hits downtown Phoenix from May 23-25, 2025 at the Phoenix Convention Center, and whether you're a hardcore comic nerd, movie buff, anime addict, or just love a good cosplay contest — Fan Fusion has something for everyone.
What is Phoenix Fan Fusion?
Think Comic-Con — but AZ style!
Phoenix Fan Fusion is the Southwest’s biggest celebration of all things geeky, nerdy, and pop culture cool. It's where fandoms unite — whether you're into:
Comics & Graphic Novels
Sci-Fi & Fantasy
Star Wars & Marvel
Anime & Manga
Video Games & Tabletop
Cosplay & Creativity
Or just looking for your people!
This 3-day event transforms downtown Phoenix into a nerdy wonderland packed with celebrities, artists, gaming zones, and an absolutely EPIC vendor hall.
When & Where?
Dates: May 23-25, 2025 (Memorial Day Weekend)
Location: Phoenix Convention Center, Downtown Phoenix, AZ
Photo Ops — Snap pics with your fave celebs or against themed backdrops.
Kid-Friendly Activities — Family cosplay parade, workshops, and fandom fun.
Why You Should Go
Safe, welcoming, and cosplay-friendly space
Huge community of geeks, gamers, creators, and fans
Tons of activities for all ages
Perfect for first-timers & long-time nerds
Downtown Phoenix food & fun just steps away
Phoenix Fan Fusion 2025 is the place to let your inner nerd shine bright. Whether you're rocking full armor cosplay or just there to shop for comics and collectibles — everyone fits in here.
Don’t miss out on Arizona’s biggest celebration of fandom, friendship, and full-on geek glory!
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!)
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!
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!
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!
Spring 2025 Events & Experiences You Shouldn’t Miss
Arizona’s spring has even more to offer beyond festivals, fan cons, nightlife, haunts, and theme parks.
Cactus League Spring Training (Feb – March 2025): Every March, Greater Phoenix becomes a baseball paradise as 15 MLB teams play spring training games across 10 stadiums in the Valley. If you’re a sports fan, catching a Cactus League game is a must. Through late February and March, you can soak up sunny 75°F days watching teams like the Chicago Cubs, San Francisco Giants, LA Dodgers, and Arizona Diamondbacks in intimate ballparks. Games are casual, inexpensive, and great for families (grass lawn seating = picnic and play time). It’s a unique Arizona tradition where you might get an autograph from a star player or at least enjoy a cold beer and a hot dog under the palm trees. Spring training isn’t just a game – it’s a whole scene, with fan fests, happy hours, and events around town. Even if you’re not a huge baseball person, the vibe is so fun and the weather so perfect that it’s a quintessential spring outing here. Tip: late March games often feature superstar players for just a few innings (they’re warming up for regular season), so arrive early to see the big names in action.
M3F Music Festival (March 7–8, 2025): M3F (McDowell Mountain Music Festival) is Phoenix’s homegrown nonprofit music festival, blending indie, jam, EDM, and rock for a great cause. In 2025 it’s set for March 7-8 at Steele Indian School Park in central Phoenix. Two days, multiple stages, and an eclectic lineup that in past years ranged from EDM DJs to folk-rock bands. The best part? 100% of proceeds go to charity. The festival has a very laid-back, community feel – think art installations, yoga sessions in the morning, and food trucks from all over the valley. For 2025, they hinted at some big headliners, making it one of their most anticipated years yet. If you’re into Coachella-type vibes but on a smaller scale (and want to give back while partying), M3F is perfect. It’s also all-ages and family-friendly (kids 10 and under are free), so you’ll see everyone from college students to dancing toddlers with earmuffs. Bring a blanket, claim a spot on the grass, and enjoy live music under the spring skies.
Arizona Bike Week (Early April 2025, Scottsdale): One of the nation’s top motorcycle rallies, Arizona Bike Week roars into WestWorld of Scottsdale in early April (likely April 2–6, 2025). Even if you don’t ride a Harley, the event is a spectacle: thousands of bikers, custom motorcycles on display, vendor expos, and nightly concerts that are open to all. Past Bike Weeks have featured rock acts like Lynyrd Skynyrd, ZZ Top, and Godsmack as headliners. By day, you can stroll through the vendor village to see the latest bikes and gear, and watch or participate in stunt shows and charity rides. By night, the outdoor stages light up with live music and a party atmosphere. It’s biker culture on full display – leather, chrome, and camaraderie. The sound of revving engines is constant. Feel free to join even if you come by car; you’ll be welcomed (just maybe leave the suit and tie at home and opt for jeans!). It’s a fun way to experience a different side of Arizona’s entertainment scene, and who knows – you might leave inspired to start riding.
Scottsdale Culinary Festival (April TBD 2025): Foodies, keep an eye out for the return of this long-running festival celebrating the culinary arts. Historically held in April, the Scottsdale Culinary Festival offers a day of gourmet food tasting at Scottsdale Civic Center Mall, with dozens of restaurants serving signature bites, cooking demos by notable chefs, live music, and even a teen cooking challenge. It went on hiatus during recent years, but whispers suggest it could make a comeback in spring 2025. If it does, prepare your palate for a feast – one ticket usually includes unlimited samples, so you can nibble everything from high-end cuisine to street food. A wine and beer garden adds to the merriment. Dress light, wear a sun hat, and come hungry. It’s a classy yet casual affair, very much in line with Scottsdale’s love of fine dining.
First Fridays Art Walk (Downtown Phoenix): March, April, May – no matter which spring month you’re here, the First Friday of each month means Downtown Phoenix comes alive at night with the nation’s largest self-guided art walk. Galleries and art spaces open free to the public in the Roosevelt Row Arts District and beyond. Street vendors sell art, jewelry, and handmade goods; food trucks line the streets; musicians busk on every corner. It’s a vibrant cultural party. In spring, the weather is ideal for strolling, making it even more popular. You can hop on a free trolley or just wander on foot exploring murals, popping into open studios, and enjoying live performances. It’s very much an all-ages scene and a fantastic way to experience Phoenix’s creative energy. And the people-watching? Prime – everyone comes out, often in funky, artsy attire. Pro-tip: start around 6pm to catch daylight for murals, and continue into the night for the full effect. Parking can be tricky, so consider light rail or ride-share to get downtown.
From sports to music to food and art, these bonus activities round out a spring in Arizona that’s truly packed with things to do. The beauty of Arizona in spring is you can hike in the morning (wildflower blooms in the desert are stunning by late March!), hit a festival by afternoon, and catch a sunset concert or ballgame by evening. The options are endless. So whatever your interests – be it cheering on your team, dancing in a field, or sampling local brews – spring 2025 is the time to dive in and enjoy the best of Arizona living. Make your plans, invite some friends, and get ready for a spring to remember!
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:
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
