WonderCon 2026: Full Schedule

2:00pm PDT

Friday March 27, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT

In a world of fast edits and even faster social media virality, crafting educational social media content has become increasingly important; audiences are constantly looking for the next video or article to take their knowledge even further. This panel examines what it takes to craft unique and memorable educational content and how audience reactions can guide the creation of more impactful work. Host Jason Patrick Galit (JPG) (pop culture educator and consultant, InterMyth) is joined by Sarah Berman (manager and creative producer, The Pacific Pals), Goldie Chan (branding expert and author, Personal Branding for Introverts), Kurosh Jozavi (games journalist and host, Savepoint Stories), Cynthia Marie (TTRPG performer and lifestyle/mental health advocate), and Luke Richmond (artistic director, The Pacific Pals) to address appropriate research methods for content, differentiation through marketing and brand approach, and strategies for responding to anti-intellectual comments and bad-faith commenters on social media.

Friday March 27, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
Room 300A

U: Updated, BIPOC, Education, Fandom, Science Fiction & Fantasy, Seminars & Workshops, Technology - Science - STEM, Web | 1: Programs, BIPOC, Education, Fandom, Science Fiction & Fantasy, Seminars & Workshops, Technology - Science - STEM, Web

3:00pm PDT

Our Seats at the Table: BIPOC Representation in Tabletop

Friday March 27, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT

North 151

A Jordan Lambert (blogger and dungeon master, Blackness and Dragons), Cai Kagawa (game consultant and game master), Kai Grayson (screenwriter and game master, Roles for Initiative LA), Kawika Aguilar (actor and writer, Snowbright Studio), Markeia McCarty (nerd culture and gaming host, Something Scary, Critical Role), and Masood Haque (comedian and actor, The Rivals of Waterdeep, Idle Champions) discuss being people of color in the world of professional tabletop gaming: what it takes to get a seat at the table, to move into positions of power, to generate momentum, and to maintain hope.

Friday March 27, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
North 151

D: d4 Tabletop Creative Conference, Games, Tabletop Games, BIPOC | 1: Programs, Games, Tabletop Games, BIPOC

4:00pm PDT

Women in Comics: Is It Finally Our Time?!

Friday March 27, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT

Room 300A

Or are we going backwards? Expect a lively discussion with editor/journalist Heidi MacDonald (Comics Beat, Publishers Weekly), writer Amy Chu (Emma Frost, Carmilla: The First Vampire, Red Sonja), and some surprise guests.

Friday March 27, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
Room 300A

1: Programs, Anime & Manga, BIPOC, Cartooning and Comic Strips, Comics, LGBTQIA+, Superheroes, Writers & Writing

4:30pm PDT

Fear Between the Lines

Friday March 27, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm PDT

Room 208

Peer into the void and learn how these authors transform the familiar and the fantastic into fear-inducing fiction. WonderCon special guest Sarah Gailey, Kathleen S. Allen (The Resurrectionist), Collin Armstrong (Polybius), Hiron Ennes (The Works of Vermin), and Racquel Marie (If We Survive This) discuss the art of repulsing readers in ways that keep them coming back for more. Moderated by librarian Judy Neeb.

Special Guests

Sarah Gailey

WonderCon Special Guest

Sarah Gailey is a Hugo and British Fantasy Award–winning, bestselling author of speculative fiction, short stories, and essays. Their bestselling adult novel debut, Magic for Liars, was published by Tor Books in 2019. Their most recent novel, Just Like Home, and most recent ori... Read More →

Friday March 27, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm PDT
Room 208

1: Programs, BIPOC, Books, Horror and Suspense, LGBTQIA+, Science Fiction & Fantasy, Writers & Writing, WonderCon Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances

5:30pm PDT

Gay Geeks and Where to Find Them

Friday March 27, 2026 5:30pm - 6:30pm PDT

Room 300C

Nicole Maines (actor, writer), Nathaniel Dolquist (actor, cosplayer), Jesse Ledina (artist), and Ember Vain (drag queen, cosplayer) discuss how favorite geeky fandoms can become flourishing careers, the challenges and rewards of growing up LGBTQIA+, seeking diversity and representation, and how being part of the community has influenced their work. The panel includes a special performance by Ember Vain and is moderated by Julian Jetson (stylist and host).

Friday March 27, 2026 5:30pm - 6:30pm PDT
Room 300C

1: Programs, Art and Illustration, BIPOC, Cartooning and Comic Strips, Comics, Cosplay, Costuming, Fandom, LGBTQIA+, Science Fiction & Fantasy, Superheroes, Television, Writers & Writing

6:00pm PDT

Finding Your Passion . . . and Get Paid!

Friday March 27, 2026 6:00pm - 7:00pm PDT

Room 303AB

Whether you are trying to write a novel, illustrate a new comic book, create a new product, or launch a new website, starting a new business can be daunting and intimidating. Hosted by Tony B Kim (Hero Within), this group of entrepreneurs and professionals share tips, tricks, and skips for establishing and sustaining a new business. Featuring Priscilla Wilson (artist), Arthur Ebuen (writer/publisher), and Jeff Lawber (Marmals creator).

Friday March 27, 2026 6:00pm - 7:00pm PDT
Room 303AB

1: Programs, Action Figures - Toys - Collectibles, Art and Illustration, BIPOC, Comics, Education, Fandom, Writers & Writing

7:30pm PDT

Mixer for Teachers and the Popular Arts Enthusiasts

Friday March 27, 2026 7:30pm - 9:00pm PDT

Room 206B

Meet educators who bring academic, social, and emotional lessons to life using the popular arts. Everyone is welcome, and there is no such thing as a stupid question. Which popular arts characters resonate with learners and inspire creativity and engagement? How about discussing superhero themes in the classroom? Share how various fandoms can enhance academic curriculum and instruction. With super educators Mike Cruz (elementary teacher, Temecula Valley Unified), Derek Heid (high school English teacher, Temecula Valley Unified), Jason Charles (high school ELD teacher, Temecula Valley Unified), Lorran Garrison (school psychologist, Little Brainstorm), Justin Tracy (drama teacher, Little Brainstorm), and Jaime Diego Chavez (counselor, San Diego Unified). Mingle with them, other teachers, and life-long learners in a fun and informal setting.

Friday March 27, 2026 7:30pm - 9:00pm PDT
Room 206B

1: Programs, BIPOC, Education, Fandom, LGBTQIA+, Technology - Science - STEM

8:00pm PDT

Quests & Queries!

Friday March 27, 2026 8:00pm - 9:00pm PDT

Room 209

The Welcome Party—Alix Catherine, Cole Garrison, and Jason Patrick Galit (JPG)—host this afterparty game of wordplay and clever query crafting where participants answer questions and question answers. Kimberley Wong (actress and voice actress, Queen of Tears) and Movie Mija (Emily Baeza) (producer, filmmaker, and content creator) will test their pop culture knowledge and put that knowledge into practice by crafting new questions, generating different answers to the same questions, and breaking down questions to find the answers they seek. With guest host Law Sharma (actor and entertainment journalist), this education- and comedy-focused battle of wits emphasizes that the thought process behind crafting an answer is just as important as the answer itself.

Friday March 27, 2026 8:00pm - 9:00pm PDT
Room 209

1: Programs, Anime & Manga, Art and Illustration, BIPOC, Books, Comics, Education, Fandom, Games, Humor & Satire, LGBTQIA+, Movies, Podcasts, Science Fiction & Fantasy, Superheroes, Television, Video Games, Web

11:00am PDT

4th Annual Scene Breakdown: Behind the Camera of Film and TV Shows

Saturday March 28, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT

Room 300A

Directors, editors, producers, composers, writers, and other industry experts share insights into their craft and break down memorable scenes from iconic film and television projects, exploring how they bring stories to life. Panelists include producer/actor Edgar Damatian, director Gedaly Guberek, creator/showrunner James McNamara (The Artful Dodger), film director/producer/CEO Kelley Kali, cinematographer Wesley Cardino, and composer Kenny Wood (Nobody Wants This, Locker Diaries: Zombies, A Winter's Song, Ricky, Shadow of the Mages). Moderated by writer/director Chris Rodriguez (Puffing Iron, They'll Find Him in the River). Part 1 of Impact24 PR's Panel Superblock.

Saturday March 28, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Room 300A

1: Programs, Action/Adventure, BIPOC, Fandom, Humor & Satire, Movies, Music, Television

11:30am PDT

Fantastic Flights

Saturday March 28, 2026 11:30am - 12:30pm PDT

Room 208

Becoming a hero often means leaving behind the only world they know. WonderCon special guest Robin Hobb, Petra Lord (Queen of Faces), ND Stevenson (Scarlet Morning), and LaDarrion Williams (Bones at the Crossroads) discuss the leaps of faith they—and their characters—must take to find their next fantastic adventures. Moderated by Bree Steffen.

Special Guests

Robin Hobb

WonderCon Special Guest

Robin Hobb is a fantasy author best known for The Farseer Trilogy (Assassin’s Apprentice, Royal Assassin, and Assassin’s Fate) and the sequels that make up The Realm of the Elderlings fantasy epic. Her current work in progress, untitled as yet, will continue the history of... Read More →

Saturday March 28, 2026 11:30am - 12:30pm PDT
Room 208

1: Programs, BIPOC, Books, LGBTQIA+, Science Fiction & Fantasy, Writers & Writing, WonderCon Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances

1:00pm PDT

1st Annual Behind the Cut: Postproduction in Film and TV

Saturday March 28, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT

Room 300A

Experts go behind the scenes of film and television to reveal how stories are finalized in the postproduction process. Through real-world examples, editors and composers break down their creative process and the decisions that shape stories into the final project. Panelists include editor Chris Rodriguez, ACE (Love Is Blind, Project Runway) , editor Daysha Broadway, ACE (The AI DOC or How I Became an Apocaloptimist), editor/director Jon Dudkowski (Star Trek: Starfleet Academy), composer Joy Ngiaw (WondLa), composer Kristen Personius (Tyler Perry's Finding Joy), and Max Davidoff-Grey (The Witcher season 4). Moderated by Ben Urquhart (California Post Alliance). Part 3 of Impact24 PR's Panel Superblock, in partnership with the California Post Alliance.

Saturday March 28, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
Room 300A

1: Programs, Action/Adventure, Animation, BIPOC, Fandom, Movies, Music, Television

1:00pm PDT

Structuring the Swoon

Saturday March 28, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT

Room 209

There's no HEA without the "Oh, no way!" WonderCon special guest Jasmine Guillory, Suzanne Enoch (Better Than a Duke), Erin La Rosa (Not You Again), J. Penner (Death Meets Cute), and Addie Thorley (Burn the Kingdom Down) discuss turning tropes into stumbling blocks that lead their characters to fall in love. Moderated by author Leanne Schwartz.

Special Guests

Jasmine Guillory

WonderCon Special Guest

Saturday March 28, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
Room 209

1: Programs, BIPOC, Books, LGBTQIA+, Writers & Writing, WonderCon Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances

1:30pm PDT

The Writer's Journey: Your Intellectual Property Is Your Future

Saturday March 28, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm PDT

Room 300C

The entertainment industry has shifted in ways no one could have predicted. This panel explores how rapidly the entertainment industry has changed and what displaced writers have done to rejuvenate their careers by doubling down on their original material. Writers and producers give examples of how they changed their mentality and offer solutions for writers who feel confused and frustrated. Featuring Brandon Easton (Iyanu), Roye Okupe (Iyanu), and other creators.

Saturday March 28, 2026 1:30pm - 2:30pm PDT
Room 300C

1: Programs, Animation, BIPOC, Books, Comics, Education, Movies, Science Fiction & Fantasy, Seminars & Workshops, Superheroes, Television, Video Games, Writers & Writing

3:00pm PDT

Iyanu Returns: An Exclusive Look at Season 2

Saturday March 28, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT

Room 207

The Iyanu creative team presents a first look at season 2 of the award-winning animated series Iyanu on Cartoon Network and HBO Max, featuring never-before-seen footage and new reveals. The panel also offers a sneak peek at the next Iyanu movie coming this summer as Iyanu and Team Chosen confront Queen Adura of the People of the Deep. Panelists Brandon Easton, Kerri Grant, Vincent Edwards, and Ivory Floyd discuss the series and film with moderator Karama Horne.

Saturday March 28, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Room 207

1: Programs, Animation, Anime & Manga, BIPOC, Humor & Satire, Kids, Television

3:00pm PDT

LGBTQ-Inclusive Storytelling for Young People

Saturday March 28, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT

Room 211

Comics, graphic novels, and YA books are universal mediums that have grown consistently in their support of LGBTQ-inclusive stories and characters for young readers. These trailblazing successes have created new opportunities for LGBTQ+ creators. Join Prism Comics, panel moderator Cort Lane (My Little Pony, GLAAD Kids & Family Advisory Council), and a group of queer publishing storytellers as they discuss their projects and answer questions, including: How did new LGBTQ+ creators find their voice and get their start? How do they approach LGBTQ content and characters for tweens, teens, and young readers? What's the best advice they've received along their journey? How do they stay hopeful in a challenging landscape and challenging times? Creators include Tilly Bridges and Susan Bridges (Star Trek Voyager: Homecoming; Monster High), Julie Fiveash (The Froggy Library), Jose Pimienta (Luminous Beings, Halfway to Somewhere), Jasmine Walls (Brooms, The Last Session, Vol. 1: Roll for Initiative), and Shannon Watters (Lumberjanes, Hollow).

Saturday March 28, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Room 211

1: Programs, Animation, BIPOC, Books, Cartooning and Comic Strips, Comics, Kids, LGBTQIA+, Superheroes

3:00pm PDT

Set Decoration of Marvel's Wonder Man

Saturday March 28, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT

Room 300A

Marvel dropped its newest show in January, set in the weird world of Hollywood and the MCU. Set decorator Lizzie Boyle, SDSA and members of the set decoration department (assistant set decorator Nicole Riley and set dec buyer Avery Ferguson) talk about the sets of this stylish show. Moderated by Rae Deslich, SDSA and Michelle Hall, SDSA. Part of the Set Decorators Society of America's series of panels on film and TV set decoration.

Saturday March 28, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Room 300A

1: Programs, BIPOC, Comics, Cosplay, Education, Movies, Science Fiction & Fantasy, Superheroes, Television

3:00pm PDT

Creating Seats at the Table: Producer and GM Responsibility for Diverse Spaces in Tabletop

Saturday March 28, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT

North 153

Jordan Lambert (blogger and dungeon master, Blackness and Dragons), Kai Grayson (screenwriter and producer, Roles for Initiative LA), Kelly Lynne D'Angelo (dungeon master, D&D in a Castle; producer, Critical Role), Jade Valkyrie (player and producer, Feywild and Out), and Sarah Durnesque (producer and game master, Pick Your Poison Productions) discuss the responsibility of producers and DMs/GMs in professional and streamed tabletop games to create and maintain diverse tables. Moderated by LemartheConGuy (professional game master and convention host).

Saturday March 28, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
North 153

D: d4 Tabletop Creative Conference, Games, Tabletop Games, BIPOC, LGBTQIA+ | 1: Programs, Games, Tabletop Games, BIPOC, LGBTQIA+

3:30pm PDT

Breaking into Entertainment Media and Content Creation

Saturday March 28, 2026 3:30pm - 4:30pm PDT

Room 300C

Fans-turned-entertainment-media-superstars share stories of how they got their starts in journalism, content creation, and the movie world in general. Brandon Davis (Phase Hero), Joe Deckelmeier (MovieWeb), Perri Nemiroff (Collider), and Taya Miller (content creator) offer stories from press and influencer trips, experiences working with brands, and tips for breaking into a media outlet or winning the algorithm's favor, drawn from a combined five-plus decades of working the biggest entertainment events, interviewing the biggest stars, and collaborating with major movie studios.

Saturday March 28, 2026 3:30pm - 4:30pm PDT
Room 300C

1: Programs, BIPOC, Cosplay, Costuming, Education, Fandom, Humor & Satire, Science Fiction & Fantasy, Seminars & Workshops, Web

4:00pm PDT

Level-Up: Taking Your Comics to the Next Tier

Saturday March 28, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT

Room 303AB

Comics creators discuss strategies for creating comics that stand out, digging into what separates good ideas from great projects and why so many comics fall short despite solid art or writing. Marcus McNeal (editor-in-chief, Odyssey Comics), Rob Pilkington (writer, Slight Return), April Connors (creator, Everybody's Happy Nowadays as Prof. Raco), Arthur N. Ebuen (writer, California, Inc.; animator The Simpsons), and Amy Linsamouth (writer, Jackie and the Magical Guys; Byte Me) share insights on shaping pitches with clarity and intent, assembling and leading creative teams, navigating editorial without losing your voice, and making choices that give a project a distinct identity.

Saturday March 28, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
Room 303AB

1: Programs, Art and Illustration, BIPOC, Books, Cartooning and Comic Strips, Comics, Education, LGBTQIA+, Writers & Writing

4:30pm PDT

Discovering Our Unique Superpowers: A Creative Workshop for Families

Saturday March 28, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm PDT

Room 210

What superpowers of the body, mind, or heart do you have? This family-friendly interactive workshop is led by Angel Halo Chang, a former preschool teacher and children's book author-illustrator who is passionate about creating diverse and inclusive spaces for all children and families. Pencils and paper provided. Coloring pencils and crayons are encouraged, not required.

Saturday March 28, 2026 4:30pm - 5:30pm PDT
Room 210

1: Programs, BIPOC, Education, Kids, Seminars & Workshops

6:00pm PDT

Hip-Hop and Comics: Cultures Combining

Saturday March 28, 2026 6:00pm - 7:00pm PDT

Room 211

Hip-Hop and comics share numerous connections and exist in constant communication with one another: Rappers and graffiti artists utilize superheroic imagery; DJs and producers create universes of sound; comic creators and animators incorporate Hip-Hop's musical and visual vocabularies; collectors dig through crates for key back issues and rare breakbeats. Both forms reconfigure and remix elements, blend styles, and inspire passionate fanbases. Moderator Patrick A. Reed brings together a group of experts to discuss the bonds between these two creative cultures.

Saturday March 28, 2026 6:00pm - 7:00pm PDT
Room 211

1: Programs, Animation, BIPOC, Comics, Fandom, Music

6:30pm PDT

What Peggy Carter Taught Us

Saturday March 28, 2026 6:30pm - 7:30pm PDT

Room 213AB

This March marks the 10th anniversary of the cancellation of Marvel's Agent Carter. Jennifer Redelle Carey, M.A. (educator, Ariadne's String), Dr. Mercedes Samudio (licensed psychotherapist, author, and cultural commentator), Sara Elizabeth Santana (indie YA and romance author, former blogger and professional fangirl), Dr. Janina Scarlet (psychologist; author of Superhero Therapy), and moderator Dawn M. Bourn (The Geek Girl Project) discuss why Agent Carter, as a character and a TV show, continues to be transformative to American culture and why Peggy Carter's iconic quote "I know my value" matters more than ever.

Saturday March 28, 2026 6:30pm - 7:30pm PDT
Room 213AB

1: Programs, Action/Adventure, Anniversaries, BIPOC, Comics, Cosplay, Education, Fandom, Historical, LGBTQIA+, Science Fiction & Fantasy, Superheroes, Television, Writers & Writing

8:00pm PDT

Superhero Cartoon Draft 2026

Saturday March 28, 2026 8:00pm - 9:00pm PDT

Room 207

Host Dimithri Perera (The Keeg podcasts, Comic Talk) runs a sports draft-style show where guests Justin Jordan (Still Scrolling Podcast), Nikhil Clayton (content creator, X-Men superfan), and Maggie Kingdom (cosplayer) will draft their top five greatest superhero cartoons of all time. Not only will the panelists compete against each other for their top picks, but the audience will have the chance to win big with their picks as well!

Saturday March 28, 2026 8:00pm - 9:00pm PDT
Room 207

1: Programs, Animation, BIPOC, Comics, Fandom, Podcasts, Superheroes, Television

8:30pm PDT

Selling the Hit: What You Always Wanted to Know About the Stunt Industry (In Memory of Eric Cajiuat)

Saturday March 28, 2026 8:30pm - 9:30pm PDT

Room 300C

Stuntmen and stuntwomen from Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, Lift, Avengers: Endgame, Snowfall, Godzilla: King of the Monsters, Cocaine Bear, Walking Dead, 9-1-1, God of War Ragnarok, and many more break down stunt scenes from prep to shooting, discuss their experiences, and offer advice in navigating the stunt industry. Panelists include Janeshia Adams-Ginyard (stunt double for Danai Gurira), Brian Danner (stunt coordinator/weapons expert), LeRoyal Tutt (stunt double for Kevin Hart), Joette Orman (stunt double for Rebel Wilson), Michael DeCamp (dreamy stuntman), and Thekla Hutyrova (martial arts badass). Moderated by Justin T. Bowler.

Saturday March 28, 2026 8:30pm - 9:30pm PDT
Room 300C

1: Programs, Action/Adventure, BIPOC, Education, Fandom, Humor & Satire, Movies, Science Fiction & Fantasy, Superheroes, Television, Video Games, Web

8:30pm PDT

Life Drawing on the Go

Saturday March 28, 2026 8:30pm - 9:30pm PDT

Room 210

Artists Brenda Chi (IDW variant cover artist, TMNT, Transformers, Godzilla Rivals), Don Nguyen (Pablo the Gorilla; sketchcard artist, Marvel, DC Comics, Star Wars, Spongebob), Marcus Newsome (Lightning Strike, Sincere: American Nightmare; sketchcard artist, Marvel, Halo, X-files) and Nathaniel Osollo (Dark Mouse, Sewer Boyz) lead the audience in a life-drawing session featuring cosplayers Crystal Rose, Patricia Rabago, Warpath_Dylan, Jimmy Sherfy, and Jeanie Herger. Attendees are encouraged to bring their preferred drawing tools, whether digital or analog. All skill levels are welcome, and there may be surprises.

Saturday March 28, 2026 8:30pm - 9:30pm PDT
Room 210

U: Updated, Art and Illustration, BIPOC, Cosplay, Costuming, Education, Fandom, Science Fiction & Fantasy, Superheroes | 1: Programs, Art and Illustration, BIPOC, Cosplay, Costuming, Education, Fandom, Science Fiction & Fantasy, Superheroes

9:00pm PDT

HahaHorror

Saturday March 28, 2026 9:00pm - 10:00pm PDT

Room 209

The difference between horror and comedy may be the music, but these two genres truly are made for each other. Moderator Anastasia Washington (Grind, Addams Family) leads a discussion with actors, filmmakers, and genre creators Teri Gamble (Horror Movie Survival Guide, Modern Family), Gina Hendry (Deadhead, Gaslighter), Ned Kirschman (Scissor Sleepover), Brea Grant (Grind, Lucky), Andrew Scott Bell (Winnie the Pooh: Blood and Honey), Sarah Nicklin (VHS Halloween, Popeye the slayer man), Matt Glass (12 Hour Shift, Grind), and Brandon Espy (Mr. Crocket) as they discuss what makes audiences laugh in fear.

Saturday March 28, 2026 9:00pm - 10:00pm PDT
Room 209

1: Programs, BIPOC, Fandom, Horror and Suspense, LGBTQIA+, Movies, Television, Writers & Writing

11:00am PDT

Cosplay Is a Drag V: Drag Queens: First Class

Sunday March 29, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT

Room 213CD

Chad Hatter (Queer for Fear, Robot Chicken) sits down with Pam Demic (costume designer, Workaholics; drag performer since 1989) and Broadway diva headliners Claire Voyance (Voyance Productions, Broadway Divas SCFTA), Leeko Rae (headliner at the Segerstrom Center for the Arts), Mama St. Merman (Broadway Divas SCFTA; headliner, Long Beach Pride), and April Showers (Showers Productions, Late-Night Divas @ Hamburger Mary's) to discuss the crossroads where cosplay meets drag, as well as navigating these artforms in the modern world.

Sunday March 29, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Room 213CD

1: Programs, BIPOC, Cosplay, Costuming, Education, Historical, Humor & Satire, LGBTQIA+

11:00am PDT

Filipino Mythologies of Future Past

Sunday March 29, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT

Room 207

Dive into the next wave of Filipino mythmaking as Benjamin DeGuzman (Anito: Book of Entropy), Ebony Soy (Maloles: The Reckoning), Joe Arciaga (DK New Icons), Earl Baylon (Doug Marcaida's Lineage), and Herbert De Leon (Alamat) unveil fresh takes on epic battles, divine intrigue, and heroic journeys. Moderated by Patricio Ginelsa (LUMPIA Deep Fried Universe film/comic book series). The session includes a free print giveaway.

Sunday March 29, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Room 207

1: Programs, Action/Adventure, Art and Illustration, BIPOC, Comics, Science Fiction & Fantasy

11:00am PDT

Supporting Women's Rights (and Wrongs!) in Comics

Sunday March 29, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT

Room 300A

Comic book history is filled with both heroic and destructive women building memorable pop culture moments, from Harley Quinn's crime sprees to the Phoenix Force destroying entire civilizations, as fans have enjoyed the power of women for decades. But at the end of the day, we're all just girls supporting girls, right? . . . Right? Author and host of Lady Comic Book History Alexandrea Callaghan is joined by Alix Catherine (podcast and livestream host, The Welcome Party), Tamara Brooks (contributor and comics expert, DCComics.com, BBC Radio), Sabeen Faheem (actor, cosplayer, entertainment host), and Magical Girl Marina (fandom and cosplay content creator) for an entertaining and humorous conversation on iconic storylines in women's comics history, tropes in women's power fantasies, and why it is important to support women's rights (and wrongs!).

Sunday March 29, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Room 300A

1: Programs, Action/Adventure, Animation, BIPOC, Books, Comics, Education, Fandom, Historical, Humor & Satire, LGBTQIA+, Podcasts, Science Fiction & Fantasy, Superheroes, Television, Web, Writers & Writing

12:00pm PDT

Comics as Counter-Narratives: Teaching the History They Tried to Erase

Sunday March 29, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT

Room 303AB

Barbra Dillon (Fanbase Press), John Jennings (Eisner Award–winning creator and NAACP Image Award winner), Tara Madison Avery (Stacked Deck Press), Shane Hawk (Bram Stoker Award nominee), Samuel C. Spitale (How to Win the War on Truth), Justin Tracy (Little Brainstorm), and moderator Lorran Garrison (school psychologist and educator) discuss how comics and graphic novels challenge dominant histories and amplify overlooked voices. They will explore how visual storytelling supports counter-narratives, critical thinking, empathy, and student storytelling in classrooms and communities.

Sunday March 29, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT
Room 303AB

1: Programs, Art and Illustration, BIPOC, Books, Cartooning and Comic Strips, Comics, Education, Fandom, Historical, Horror and Suspense, Humor & Satire, Kids, LGBTQIA+, Science Fiction & Fantasy, Seminars & Workshops, Superheroes, Tributes, Writers & Writing

12:00pm PDT

From Burnout to Brainstorm

Sunday March 29, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT

Room 211

Comic book editor Amanda Meadows (Andrews McMeel Publishing; she/her), cartoonist and librarian Julie Fiveash (The Froggy Librarian; they/them), and zine-maker and artist MLOU (Explaining My Gender in Tagalog; they/them) discuss what's good in what's real—from making art by hand, to writing stories and corresponding with people in one’s own words to showing up for each other, naming truths and preserving histories—and why it's vital that everyone participate in the defense of reality. Moderated by Christine Pasalo Norland (writer, founder, Hello Barkada; she/her).

Sunday March 29, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT
Room 211

1: Programs, BIPOC, Books, Cartooning and Comic Strips, Comics, LGBTQIA+

1:00pm PDT

Comics Arts Conference Session #8: Fear and Loathing in Aztlan: Hunter S. Thompson, the Chicano Movement, and Comics

Sunday March 29, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT

Room 210

This panel looks at the continued and intertwined impact of both the writings of Hunter S. Thompson (author of Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas and other books) and the Chicano Movement (including the Chicano Moratorium against the Vietnam War) on comics. Librarian Xaviera Flores (UCLA Chicano Studies Research Center), cartoonist and producer Lalo Alcaraz (La Cucaracha), and animator Jeaux Janovsky (Orwell: 2+2 = 5) discuss the Chicano art journal Con Safos, the writings and activist work of Oscar Zeta Acosta, the art of Ralph Steadman (illustrator of Fear and Loathing in Las Vegas and other books), and prints from the East L.A. Art center Self Help Graphics. Moderated by Gustavo Alberto Garcia Vaca (Museum of Modern Art).

Sunday March 29, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
Room 210

1: Programs, BIPOC, Books, Comics, Education, Historical

1:00pm PDT

Help! I'm in Love with an Artist

Sunday March 29, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT

Room 303AB

Brian Luhmann, Psy.D. (faculty, Hope International University; owner/therapist, The New Normal Mental Health Services) facilitates a discussion between creatives and their supportive partners about the headaches and collective wins of making and sharing art. Featuring Ralph Miranda (senior storyboard artist; co-creator, Oh, Bubba Lu!), Jen Ha Lu, MA, PHR, SHRM-SCP (co-creator, Oh, Bubba Lu!), Paolo Encarnacion (owner/artist, PaoWorks), Amber M. Sotomayor (litigation paralegal, Klinedinst PC; operations, PaoWorks), and Crystal Ishihara, Ph.D. (author; therapist; artist, IshiharaInk).

Sunday March 29, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
Room 303AB

1: Programs, Animation, Art and Illustration, BIPOC, Books, Cartooning and Comic Strips, Education, Movies, Television, Video Games, Writers & Writing

1:00pm PDT

Making Something Borrowed Something New

Sunday March 29, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT

Room 209

Making the familiar feel fresh is no easy feat. WonderCon special guest Claudia Gray, Megan Jauregui Eccles (Sing the Night), Keala Kendall (How Far I'll Go), Aimee Lim (The Thread of Destiny), and Kiersten White (The Fox and the Devil) break down how they bring their own voices and views to beloved classics. Moderated by Mysterious Galaxy's Michelle Bucud.

Special Guests

Claudia Gray

F-04, WonderCon Special Guest

Claudia Gray is the pseudonym of Amy Vincent. She is the writer of multiple young adult novels, including the Evernight series, the Firebird trilogy, and the Constellation trilogy. In addition, she’s written several Star Wars novels, such as Lost Stars and Bloodline. Her debut... Read More →

Sunday March 29, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
Room 209

1: Programs, BIPOC, Books, Science Fiction & Fantasy, Writers & Writing, WonderCon Special Guest Spotlights & Appearances

1:00pm PDT

The Magical World of LGBTQ+ Fantasy

Sunday March 29, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT

Room 211

LGBTQ+ fantasy comics and graphic novels have become very popular. The fantasy genre provides a safe space for writers and artists to explore deeply felt real-life stories, challenges, and difficulties that might be much harsher if told in realistic terms. Prism Comics, moderator William O Tyler (We Belong; Theater of Terror: Revenge of the Queers!), and panelists Ben Crane (Cosmic Cadets, Scattered Futures), Nicole Maines (Suicide Squad, Bad Dream), Ajuan Mance (Gender Studies; Living While Black), Emely Corona Sandoval (animator), and Jasmine Walls (Brooms, The Last Session, Vol. 1: Roll For Initiative) discuss how myths, folktales, and fantasy influence queer storytelling in comics and how fantasy helps readers both escape and gain greater understanding and empathy for queer lives and queer experiences.

Sunday March 29, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
Room 211

2:00pm PDT

Adaptation: Developing from One Medium to Another

Sunday March 29, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT

Room 303AB

Moderator Spiro Skentzos (Grimm) leads a discussion with writer/producers Douglas J. Eboch (Sweet Home Alabama), Eric Heisserer (Arrival), Jill Blotevogel (Scream: The TV Series), and Brandon Easton (Iyanu) about adapting a piece of work for another medium. The panel examines what to watch out for, what not to do, and how to stay true to source material.

Sunday March 29, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
Room 303AB

1: Programs, BIPOC, Books, Cartooning and Comic Strips, Comics, Education, Historical, Horror and Suspense, LGBTQIA+, Movies, Mysteries & Crime Dramas, Science Fiction & Fantasy, Seminars & Workshops, Superheroes, Television, Video Games, Writers & Writing

2:00pm PDT

Queer Gaming: Adventuring with Pride

Sunday March 29, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT

North 151

For decades, LGBTQ+ players have put their own spin on tabletop role-playing games and video games. RPGs give queer gamers the chance to create heroes and fantasy worlds in their own image, and it is now impossible for the industry to ignore the impact of their fandom. How can gaming give LGBTQ+ people the opportunity to reimagine themselves? How does queer culture flip the scripts in classic fantasy and sci-fi RPG genres? Where is queer gaming headed? Prism Comics and moderator Tara Madison Avery (Death Saves, Stacked Deck Press), engage in a lively discussion of these questions with panelists Matthew Michael Brown (gamer; marriage and family therapist, Queer Magic Therapy), Bryan Gomez (Twitch affiliate and cosplayer), Ray Lancione (Qweerty Gamers), Sonya Saturday (The Greatest Thing You've Ever Seen in Your Life, J.K. Rowling and the Ungrateful Fans), and Estella M. Stone (Twitch Pride Guild, Electronic Arts Creator Network).

Sunday March 29, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
North 151

D: d4 Tabletop Creative Conference, Games, Tabletop Games, BIPOC, Comics, LGBTQIA+, Video Games | 1: Programs, Games, Tabletop Games, BIPOC, Comics, LGBTQIA+, Video Games

2:00pm PDT

Comics Arts Conference Session #9: Representing Identity

Sunday March 29, 2026 2:00pm - 3:30pm PDT

Room 210

Superhero comics serve as evolving cultural battlegrounds where questions of identity, otherness, race, queerness, disability, and social justice are negotiated and reimagined. Britton Payne (Nickelodeon) uses the Martian Manhunter to explore how superhero secret identities mirror the autistic experience of masking, belonging, and negotiating what it means to be American. Tracing queer themes, Esther Brito Ruiz (American University) examines how American superhero comics have wrestled with—and reshaped—LGBTQ+ identity over time. Focusing on Damian Wayne in The Boy Wonder miniseries, Juan Carlos Fermin (California State University, Fullerton) analyzes how Juni Ba reimagines the Batman mythos through postcolonial and Marxist critique. Mike Bittner (Stanford University) revisits 1990s teen superhero titles to assess how comics of the era tackled hot-button social issues—from LGBTQ+ rights to environmentalism—with varying degrees of insight and misfire.

Sunday March 29, 2026 2:00pm - 3:30pm PDT
Room 210

1: Programs, BIPOC, Comics, Education, LGBTQIA+, Superheroes

3:00pm PDT

Writing Psychologically Rich Characters

Sunday March 29, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT

Room 213CD

Are you a writer or have you ever wanted to become one? Have you been struggling with imposter syndrome? Have you ever wondered how you can contribute to social justice through your writing? This panel of writers explores how to create psychologically rich characters to help you boost your writing and make it stand out. Learn how to break free from your imposter syndrome and attend to your creative passions. Panelists include writers Dr. Janina Scarlet (Superhero Therapy; The Villains Club), Deric Hughes (Arrow; Quantum Leap), Kristi Korzec (Superman & Lois), Chris Rafferty (Cobra Kai; Lucifer), Dennis Crosby (Death's Legacy), Sarah Faxon (The Animal Court; Foreign & Domestic Affairs), and Ray Utarnachitt (DC's Legends of Tomorrow). Dustin McGinnis (Creative Community Podcast) moderates.

Sunday March 29, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Room 213CD

1: Programs, BIPOC, Books, LGBTQIA+, Movies, Television, Writers & Writing

3:00pm PDT

Mixer for Science-Minded Geeks

Sunday March 29, 2026 3:00pm - 5:00pm PDT

Room 204C

Got a science question? This informal mixer invites attendees to ask anything, and a group of friendly scientists will be ready with speculative answers. Among all the pop culture fans at WonderCon, there are plenty of scientists on hand this year. Everyone is welcome, and there is no such thing as a stupid question. What might life be like in a galaxy far, far away? Could gamma radiation produce a Hulk? What would it take for a lion king to sing? Scientists from groups such as Cosplay for Science, Nerd Nite Orange County, and AAAS If/Then ambassadors are ready to talk about how things work in our favorite fandoms. Attendees can mingle with these science-minded folks in a fun, informal setting.

Sunday March 29, 2026 3:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
Room 204C

1: Programs, BIPOC, Cosplay, Education, Fandom, LGBTQIA+, Technology - Science - STEM

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