From incredible cosplay and talented artists to anime, books and family fun, Comic Con Africa 2026 once again proved why it has become such a highlight on Johannesburg’s events calendar.
There are few places where you can walk through a convention centre and see a Stormtrooper, an anime character, a superhero and a family dressed up together, and nobody bats an eyelid. That’s part of the magic of Comic Con Africa.
I’ve attended Comic Con Africa before, and, as always, I enjoyed myself. There’s something about being surrounded by people who are completely unapologetic about the things they love that I find infectious. This year, I attended on Sunday, and after the four-day event kicked off on Thursday, the show floor felt noticeably fuller than it had on my visit last year.
And it seems more and more people are getting into the spirit of it.
This year, my own family joined in on the fun and dressed up too, which made the experience even more memorable. Comic Con has become one of those events where dressing up doesn’t feel like an optional extra; it’s part of the experience.
Where creativity takes centre stage
One of my personal highlights is always Artist Alley. With more than 200 artists and crafters taking part, it’s difficult not to be inspired as you wander through the rows of artwork, illustrations, comics and collectables.
I love being around so many talented people. There’s something particularly motivating about seeing people turn their creativity into something tangible, whether that’s through illustration, comics, character design or craft. I could easily spend hours browsing, chatting to artists and discovering work I hadn’t seen before.
The Artist Alley programme also included talks, sketch battles and opportunities to learn more about working in the creative industry, adding another layer to the experience.
A little something for every kind of fan
I also made my way through the Book Nook, which was another highlight for me. There’s something wonderfully satisfying about browsing books at an event that is otherwise filled with gaming, tech and visual spectacle.
Otaku Town was another favourite, particularly for fans of Japanese pop culture and anime. With merchandise, collectables and activities celebrating everything from One Piece and Naruto to Demon Slayer, there was plenty to explore. This year also marked 30 years of Pokémon, adding a nostalgic touch for fans like me who have grown up with the franchise.
And then, of course, there was the cosplay.
The costumes did not disappoint
If you’ve never been to Comic Con Africa, one of the best things you can do is simply stop and watch the people walking past.
The costumes this year were impressive, but what stood out to me was just how many people were actively getting involved. Professional cosplayers are joined by fans who have clearly put serious time and creativity into their costumes, as well as families and first-timers simply wanting to have fun.
The cosplay competitions and championships give the more serious participants a chance to showcase their work, but you don’t have to enter a competition to enjoy dressing up.
You just need to be willing to show up and show out.
Already looking forward to next year
Beyond the costumes and fandom, I think that’s what keeps bringing me back to Comic Con Africa: the sense of community.
It’s a place where being enthusiastic about something isn’t embarrassing; it’s encouraged. Whether your thing is comics, anime, books, gaming, art, film, collectables, or simply dressing up with your family, there’s space for you.
After another enjoyable Sunday at the Johannesburg Expo Centre, my family and I left with the inevitable question: What are we dressing up as next year?
So, yes, Comic Con Africa, we’ll be back.
