Phoenix’s Pop Culture Paradise Returns
Writer Joseph J. Airdo // Photography Courtesy of Phoenix Fan Fusion
From humble beginnings to becoming one of the West Coast’s largest pop culture gatherings, Phoenix Fan Fusion has evolved into a cornerstone of Arizona’s creative community. The event returns to the Phoenix Convention Center June 6–8, bringing approximately 60,000 attendees together for a weekend celebrating everything from comics and cosplay to tabletop gaming and celebrity encounters.
“No matter what you’re interested in, you can come to this convention and find something you love — or discover a new passion,” says Brandon LaVorgna of Phoenix Fan Fusion’s PR Department.
The 2025 event promises an impressive lineup, featuring reunions and rare appearances that span generations of entertainment.
The star-studded guest list includes all four actors who portrayed hobbits in the “Lord of the Rings” films, alongside “Daredevil: Born Again” stars Charlie Cox and Vincent D’Onofrio and the legendary duo of Jason Mewes and Kevin Smith — more popularly known as Jay and Silent Bob.
Attendees can also meet Academy Award winner Marisa Tomei, “Mission: Impossible” actor Simon Pegg, “The Office” star Rainn Wilson and “Hellboy” himself, Ron Perlman. Adding to the excitement will be beloved voice actors such as Billy West (”Futurama”) and animation icons such as Tom Ruegger (”Animaniacs,” “Pinky and the Brain”).
“Katey Sagal is who I’m most excited about,” LaVorgna shares with genuine enthusiasm. “I grew up in the ‘90s as a child of divorce, and I watched ‘Married with Children’ religiously because I could relate to them — they were a family that was kind of broken but still figuring things out. That was really inspiring for me as a kid.”
What distinguishes Fan Fusion from other conventions is its commitment to creating an intimate experience despite its massive scale. Strategic visual barriers throughout the convention center create more personal environments for genuine one-on-one moments between fans and their favorite celebrities.
“Despite having 50,000 to 60,000 attendees annually, it still feels intimate,” LaVorgna explains. “You see people cry tears of joy and share heartfelt hugs with their heroes. Those moments never get old — watching little kids light up with joy and seeing adults transform back into excited children themselves.”
The economic impact extends throughout the Valley, with hotels, restaurants and local businesses benefiting from the influx of visitors. The convention draws attendees from across Arizona and beyond, including international fans who sometimes travel 15 hours by plane specifically for the event.
“We get attendees from across the globe, though we’re still primarily known as a regional West Coast convention — something we’re actively working to change,” LaVorgna says.
Fan Fusion has also embraced its responsibility to the community, partnering with charitable organizations that provide books to children and schools in need, as well as adoption services that help unite families.
“This spirit of giving back is deeply embedded in what we do,” LaVorgna says. “It’s such a loving environment, and supporting these causes is just one way that love shows up.”
Beyond entertainment, the convention serves as a vital platform for local artists. The Phoenix area’s creative community receives equal billing alongside A-list celebrities, reflecting Arizona’s artistic spirit.
“The Phoenix area and the Valley in general are very artistic communities,” LaVorgna notes. “You can see that creative spirit all the way from Flagstaff down to Tucson. Art is deeply woven into Arizonans’ lifestyle.”
For first-time attendees, LaVorgna recommends downloading the event app to navigate the packed schedule spanning both sides of the convention center. He also suggests purchasing photo-op and autograph tickets well in advance, as these experiences consistently sell out.
“Come with an open mind, pace yourself, and enjoy the experience,” he advises. “Check out the panels that interest you, meet the guests you’re excited about, and just soak it all in.”
Whether you’re a dedicated cosplayer, a casual fan seeking family entertainment, or simply curious about this cultural phenomenon, Phoenix Fan Fusion offers a uniquely Arizonan celebration of creativity that continues to grow in scope and significance each year.
Phoenix Fan Fusion
June 6–8 // See website for schedule // Phoenix Convention Center // 100 N. Third St., Phoenix // $39+ (children 12 and under free) // phoenixfanfusion.com
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