Comic book fans, gamers and cosplay enthusiasts from across East Devon are expected to head to Westpoint Exeter this weekend as the Comic Con & Gaming Festival returns with celebrity guests, gaming zones and family-friendly entertainment.
The two-day event on Saturday, October 10 and Sunday, October 11, promises plenty to explore, from film and television stars to retro gaming, collectibles and interactive attractions.
Visitors will have the chance to meet a host of screen stars, including Peter Davison, best known as the Fifth Doctor in Doctor Who, as well as Chris Barrie, famous for playing Arnold Rimmer in cult sci-fi comedy Red Dwarf, and actors Danny Webb and Tom Rosenthal. Also appearing over the weekend are Harry McEntire, Julian Seager, Lauren Saliu, Guillaume Rivaud, Max Wrottesley, Greg Austin, Jack Ryder and Crystal Yu, with talks and panels taking place throughout the event.
A new Comic Zone featuring more than a dozen comic artists and creators will offer fans the opportunity to meet illustrators and writers, browse artwork and discover new titles.
Gaming remains a major attraction, with expanded areas featuring retro consoles, virtual reality experiences, tabletop games and independent game developers. Additional gaming activities will also be hosted by the Children’s Hospice South West gaming team.
Cosplay fans can look forward to the event’s biggest competition yet, plus character meet-ups and appearances from favourites including Pokémon characters, Hello Kitty, Mario and Luigi.
There will be plenty of eye-catching displays throughout the venue, including props inspired by The Shining, Hannibal, Batman, Wicked and K-pop culture. Visitors can also pose for photos against anime, horror and post-apocalyptic backdrops, or check out film vehicles including the Batmobile and a fleet of American police cars.
Families can enjoy a dedicated LEGO zone hosted by The Brick People, dinosaur displays, workshops, a Beyblade tournament, a Pokémon area and appearances from the Transformers Bumblebee, Megatron and Optimus Prime. Those looking for something a little different can even try axe throwing and airsoft activities.
Elsewhere, traders will be selling memorabilia, artwork, toys and collectibles, while a new Geek Tattoo Zone, street food vendors and an indoor café will keep visitors fuelled throughout the day.
Organisers are promising “an unmissable weekend packed with incredible entertainment, creativity and fun”, with immersive sets, props and hands-on activities throughout the venue.
For families looking for something different to do this weekend, tickets start at £16.30 for adults and £11.07 for children, while under-sixes can enter free. Family tickets are also available.
The event takes place at Westpoint Exeter on Saturday, October 10 from 9.30am to 5.30pm, and on Sunday, October 11 from 10am to 4.30pm.
Children aged 13 and under must be accompanied by an adult, with organisers recommending adult supervision for all visitors under 16.
