Loading…
WonderCon 2026 has ended
Venue: Room 300E clear filter
Friday, March 27
 

2:00pm PDT

Bootleg Cosplay: Hacking it Together
Friday March 27, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
Are you a cosplay goblin? Have you thrown together more than one cosplay on a hope and a prayer? Or are you perhaps a cosplay perfectionist trying to embrace the "perfect is the enemy of good" philosophy? The cosplayers of SheProp share how to create amazing cosplays on a budget, as well as how to make sustainable crafting choices while building. The panel covers garment hacking, thrift cosplay, and other sustainable costuming practices. Panelists are pros at creating amazing cosplays without breaking the bank (or even without knowing how to use a sewing machine). Audience participation is highly encouraged, with plenty of time for questions.
Friday March 27, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
Room 300E

3:00pm PDT

Eco-Friendly Cosplay
Friday March 27, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Rachael Sanderson Rachael Sanderson (LuckyGrim, SyFy fantorials) and Philip Odango (Canvas Cosplay, SVP ambassador) discuss their endeavors to create fantastic costumes while being eco-friendly. Fashion and costume production can be extremely wasteful, but this panel highlights ways to help the environment while making amazing cosplays.
Friday March 27, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Room 300E

4:00pm PDT

The Five Secrets of Cosplay Leathercraft
Friday March 27, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
Cosplayers interested in working with leather but unsure where to start can learn how to approach a project from concept to completion using a fantasy leather armor piece (a shoulder pauldron) as an example. Amy and Brayton Carpenter (owners, Legendary Costume Works; Fallout Season 2) reveal their methods and techniques in this lecture and demonstration.
Friday March 27, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
Room 300E

5:00pm PDT

Cosplay Photography 101: The Dos and Don'ts
Friday March 27, 2026 5:00pm - 6:00pm PDT
Pat Loika (published photographer; author, Four Color Realities, Photo Works), Jim Donnelly (published photographer), Amanda Lynne (cosplay cover model, X-Men), Sara Moni Cosplay (published model, streamer), Maid Of Might Cosplay (cosplayer, actress), Amazing T Cosplay (cosplayer), and moderator Taffeta Darling (podcaster, cosplayer) share their best practices and approaches in the realm of cosplay and cosplay photography. What should you always carry with you? When is the best time to take photos at a con? Panelists answer these questions and more.
Friday March 27, 2026 5:00pm - 6:00pm PDT
Room 300E

6:00pm PDT

Comic-Con Museum: What's on and What's Next
Friday March 27, 2026 6:00pm - 7:00pm PDT
Curious about how to keep the fan appreciation going all year round? This panel highlights Comic-Con Museum's current and upcoming exhibits, programming, events, and more. Moderated by Senior Director of Programming Eddie Ibrahim, the session features Comic-Con Museum leaders, contributors, and community advisors discussing the exciting present and future of Comic-Con Museum in San Diego's historic Balboa Park.
Friday March 27, 2026 6:00pm - 7:00pm PDT
Room 300E

7:00pm PDT

Thrift, Upcycle, and Cosplay
Friday March 27, 2026 7:00pm - 8:00pm PDT
Cosplayers BethCosplay, SindirooCosplays, Pepperjaq, AgeOfAmber, Katerpillerkosplay, and Cosbunnycosplay will explore transforming everyday objects into extraordinary costumes and props through thrifting, upcycling, and creative repurposing.
Friday March 27, 2026 7:00pm - 8:00pm PDT
Room 300E

8:00pm PDT

Cosplaying as a Couple
Friday March 27, 2026 8:00pm - 9:00pm PDT
Four couples—Shawn Richter and Lisa Richter, Miguel Capuchino and Lucy Capuchino, Trevor Newton and Wendy Newton, and Ed Gonzalez and Shelly Grace—describe their experiences and challenges and answer questions about what it's like cosplaying together. These couples all have many years of experience at conventions and provide countless hours of community support through cosplay.
Friday March 27, 2026 8:00pm - 9:00pm PDT
Room 300E

9:00pm PDT

The Great Geek Debate
Friday March 27, 2026 9:00pm - 10:00pm PDT
From holiday movie controversies (Die Hard?) to fandom-defining rivalries (Star Wars versus Star Trek). GG4G superfan panelists Brian Slape, Peyton Slape, Jason Wilkerson, Robert Lanuza, Stephen Fromm, and Joe Queen take part in a fast-paced, lighthearted, and interactive debate as they tackle some of pop culture's hotly contested questions of all time. No topic is off limits as the panelists and audience weigh in to challenge each other's logic. This debate is not just about winning, but about what makes fandom fun.
Friday March 27, 2026 9:00pm - 10:00pm PDT
Room 300E
 
Saturday, March 28
 

11:00am PDT

Showcasing Your Culture Through Fandom Cosplaying
Saturday March 28, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Lucy Capuchino (costume designer, cosplayer), Giraffe (educator, podcaster, cosplayer), Shelly Grace (content creator, cosplayer), John Phung (traveler, budget cosplayer), and Lonnie Lucas (writer, army veteran, cosplayer) discuss how they celebrate their cultural heritage while overcoming the challenges of cosplaying their favorite fandoms, especially given the limited representation in pop culture. Moderated by Miguel Capuchino (internationally known cosplayer, content creator).
Saturday March 28, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Room 300E

12:00pm PDT

The DisneyBound Blog: Styling for Fandom Fashion
Saturday March 28, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT
In the 15 years since The Disneybound Blog became a viral sensation, it has brought together a global community sharing their love of Disney fandom and creative fashion expression by incorporating both into daily styling. Disneybounding pros Logan Allison, Shannon Kiang, Jazmine Liew, Clarione, and Tory Hatcher present tools for bringing whimsy and favorite fandoms to personal wardrobes. Moderated by Kelsey Walmer.
Saturday March 28, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT
Room 300E

1:00pm PDT

The Characters That Raised Us: Creators of '90s Animation
Saturday March 28, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
The creators behind Hey Arnold!, Daria, and Johnny Bravo, along with SpongeBob SquarePants director Derek Drymon, come together to share how the characters that defined the 1990s were born. From first sketches to cultural impact, Craig Bartlett, Susie Lewis, Derek Drymon, and Van Partible offer an inside look at the creative process, plus a live Q&A with fans.
Saturday March 28, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
Room 300E

2:00pm PDT

Cinematic Storytelling: The Art of Visual Effects and Speculative Fiction
Saturday March 28, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
A panel of award-winning visual effects artists turned science fiction and fantasy authors explore how the language of film translates into the written word. You will learn how elements of cinematic storytelling, timing, framing, rhythm, spectacle, and emotional focus can shape unforgettable prose. Featuring Eric Wilson (VFX, The Matrix; author, The Murder Algorithm), Jim Hillin (VFX, Thor: Love and Thunder; author, Horace Gumshoe), and Scott Kilburn (VFX, Life of Pi; author, The Fey Forest Chronicles), with moderator Theresa Halvorsen (author, Warehouse Dreams, Lost Aboard)
Saturday March 28, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
Room 300E

3:00pm PDT

How to Build a Droid 101
Saturday March 28, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Panelists discuss how you can begin your journey of building full-size droids from the Star Wars universe. They will take you through how to join their clubs and forums and discuss materials and costs.
Saturday March 28, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Room 300E

4:00pm PDT

How to Build Cosplay Armor and Props with Anvil Station
Saturday March 28, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
With more than a decade of Halo cosplay and beyond, the crew of Anvil Station share guidance on where to start and how to choose among the many available techniques and tools. The panel reviews common methods used today to construct armor, props, and costumes, including 3D printing, casting and molding, foam construction, laser cutting, microcontroller programming, and more. Featuring Cary Gunnar Lee (Legacy Effects), JP Polilo (Legacy Effects), Chris Loomis (CrazedOneCosplay), Matt Hendricks (Matterhackers), and James Hall and moderated by Benedict Choy (SpacemeatTheCosplay).
Saturday March 28, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
Room 300E

5:00pm PDT

Avengers Assemble! Suiting Up and Serving Others with Marvel Causeplay
Saturday March 28, 2026 5:00pm - 6:00pm PDT
Marvel fans! Are you interested in cosplay but not sure where to begin? Or have you suited up before and want to learn how to use your fandom for a good cause? Members of the Avengers Initiative, a national fan organization of Marvel cosplay volunteers, fill you in on how to get started in cosplay and how to give back to communities via charity service events, visiting kids in hospitals, and more. The panel also explores how cosplay can be used to inspire and support others. Bryan Lee (head executive officer, Avengers Initiative) hosts Karen Katich (head membership officer, Avengers Initiative), Ron Alix (volunteer member, West Coast Avengers of California), Tom Iwata (membership officer, West Coast Avengers of California), Kate Tidwell (executive officer, West Coast Avengers of California), Coby Thornton (executive officer, Avengers Mid-Pacific of Hawaii), and Victor C. Joe, M.D., MBA, FACS (UCI Health Regional Burn Center).
Saturday March 28, 2026 5:00pm - 6:00pm PDT
Room 300E

6:00pm PDT

Building Cosplay Props on a Budget
Saturday March 28, 2026 6:00pm - 7:00pm PDT
Cosplay prop maker Sesame.cos, pattern creator and LED specialist ChrisekaiCosplay, and master Gunpla cosplayer Eric.craftworks offer an in-depth look at crafting cosplay props without breaking the bank. The panel covers the entire process, from concept and materials to construction and finishing, while sharing practical tips, money-saving techniques, and creative solutions to help you stick to your cosplay budget. The session concludes with an interactive "Cosplay Prop Petting Zoo," where attendees can see the work up close, handle the props, and ask questions during a live Q&A segment with moderator Katerpillerkosplay
Saturday March 28, 2026 6:00pm - 7:00pm PDT
Room 300E

7:00pm PDT

Closet Cosplay: Crafting Without Breaking the Bank
Saturday March 28, 2026 7:00pm - 8:00pm PDT
Cosplay in this economy? This panel explores how to use everyday materials to create cosplay looks without overspending. Cosplay creators Sesame.cos, Dianitecosplay, Magicalgirlmarina, and moderator Katerpillerkosplay discuss how to repurpose clothing and accessories and reimagine items from the closet into creative, customized cosplay. These experienced cosplayers share how they transform simple, everyday pieces into distinctive, character-driven looks. The panel concludes with a Q&A segment, giving attendees the chance to ask questions, get personalized advice, and walk away inspired.
Saturday March 28, 2026 7:00pm - 8:00pm PDT
Room 300E

8:00pm PDT

Klingon Lifestyles WonderCon
Saturday March 28, 2026 8:00pm - 9:00pm PDT
For over 30 years, the crew of the IKV Stranglehold has had some interesting adventures, but events from the past can eventually return and cause new problems for them in their latest special WonderCon mission, which may lead to future missions. All alien races are welcome.
Saturday March 28, 2026 8:00pm - 9:00pm PDT
Room 300E

9:00pm PDT

Welcome to Starfleet Academy
Saturday March 28, 2026 9:00pm - 10:00pm PDT
What does it take to teach and inspire the next generation of Starfleet officers? The new hit show Starfleet Academy fulfills many Trekkies' dreams by taking viewers inside the classroom to learn alongside the cadets. The series also highlights the challenges faced by their instructors, Captain Ake, Jett Reno, the Doctor, and Lura Thok. To answer this question, professors Aaron Weinstein (California State University, Fullerton), Dr. Sara Roldan (San Diego State University), and Dr. Brenda Lara (San Diego State University) illustrates the challenges and joys of training new generations. Moderated by Benjamin Taitz (NerdNite OC). Class is now in session!
Saturday March 28, 2026 9:00pm - 10:00pm PDT
Room 300E
 
Sunday, March 29
 

11:00am PDT

Cos-Ability: Cosplaying While Disabled
Sunday March 29, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Creating cosplays and attending cons can be as fun and exciting as they are stressful and exhausting, and those stressors are amplified when working with a disability. This panel features cosplayers who create, compete, and volunteer while working with mental or physical disabilities. The discussion explores the crafting techniques they use to build, how they pattern and create to accommodate themselves, and how they navigate cons with their varying abilities.
Sunday March 29, 2026 11:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Room 300E

12:00pm PDT

Solutions for a Cosplay Universe
Sunday March 29, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT
Ed Gonzalez (30 years in the film/TV industry; cosplayer), Brooke Wheeler (20+ years working with Smooth-On products; materials and applications specialist in mold making), Mike McGee and Alex McGee (special effects makeup artists/prop makers/costume designers), and Lucy Capachino (textile specialist/costume designer; cosplayer) discuss what it takes to get your cosplays to the next level.
Sunday March 29, 2026 12:00pm - 1:00pm PDT
Room 300E

1:00pm PDT

Armor and Prop Building: From Cosplay to Industry Techniques
Sunday March 29, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
Panelists Juda Escalante (The Mandalorian, Fallout), Nathan Seekerman and Ayla Fox (Seeker Design Group), Scott Winn (StarWinnProps), Sean McKinley, Jenna Bergstrom, and Autumn Mrozik (L Garage) work professionally across film and television with practical effects including painting, molding/casting, 3D design, basic Arduino sketches, and sewing. They will break down the techniques used to create characters from concept to use on set and explore real-world workflows, common mistakes, and smart shortcuts used by professionals. Whether you are just starting out or looking to level up your skills, you'll leave with practical knowledge and creative inspiration.
Sunday March 29, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
Room 300E

2:00pm PDT

How to Build a WALL-E 101
Sunday March 29, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
Panelists discuss how someone can begin their journey of building a full-size WALL-E robot. A panel of builders takes attendees through how to join their clubs and forums and discusses materials and costs.
Sunday March 29, 2026 2:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
Room 300E

3:00pm PDT

dD Cosplay Club for Persons with Disabilities: A Guide for Inclusive Cosplay
Sunday March 29, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Learn how dD Cosplay Club promotes adaptive cosplay techniques and activities to encourage persons with disabilities to explore and participate in cosplay. Get the perspective of parents of club members, along with feedback from club members, including dDominator, a.k.a. dD (the superhero ambassador and founder of dD Cosplay Club). Club members take part in a presentation and Q&A session moderated by Chris Birmingham (president of dD Cosplay Club).
Sunday March 29, 2026 3:00pm - 4:00pm PDT
Room 300E

4:00pm PDT

Breaking and Rebuilding Your Personal Brand
Sunday March 29, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
Being a content creator involves building a personal brand, whether developed with intention or through the work shared with audiences. There are verbal, nonverbal, visual, auditory, and other factors that identify "you" as "you" to fans. But what happens when a personal brand is not serving those goals as well as it could, or when a rebrand would better support a current content direction? Host Jimmy Arias and panelists Hawkilles (streamer and content creator), MagicalBlackGirlAlia (cosplayer and content creator), Colin K. Bass (marketing director and content creator), Mitch Narito (actor and comedian, The Good Place), and Ana Voltage (podcast host and content creator) discuss the steps of tweaking or rebuilding a content creator brand, the reassessment process for understanding a rebrand, and strategies to better represent a brand to potential opportunities.
Sunday March 29, 2026 4:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
Room 300E
 

Share Modal

Share this link via

Or copy link

Filter sessions
Apply filters to sessions.
  • 1: Programs
  • 2: Anime
  • 3: Children's Films
  • 4: Games
  • 5: Portfolio Review
  • 6: Autographs
  • D: d4 Tabletop Creative Conference
  • N: New
  • U: Updated
  • X: Cancelled