The horror genre is definitely having its moment. U.S. sales have been booming since 2023, and the UK has seen even more dramatic growth. But this cultural wave is about more than just sales numbers. Google search interest for "horror books" has climbed more than 70% since 2020, while horror's box office success in the last year is drawing new audiences back to the page. Horror has also shown a significant presence in the Academy Award nominations this year.
If you're a horror author, this the ideal time to ride the momentum momentum and connect with fans where they already gather. Attending genre events can boost visibility for both you and your book. Even when events aren’t strictly book-focused, they attract highly engaged horror fans eager to discover new content.
Below is a curated list of upcoming horror-themed festivals, fairs, conferences, and related genre events—including select writers’ retreats—happening this year. This list will be updated regularly, so check back for new additions. Age requirements are noted where available; contact event organizers for details.
*Disclaimer: Some of the dates for these events are subject to change as they approach. Please be sure to check the links to verify exact dates.
February
ARIZONA
February 19-22: The Creepy Book Club Creepy Retreat—Scottsdale
- You don't need to be in the book club—or even read the books—to come to this retreat. All you need is a love for good vibes, great people, and a soul-filling weekend which includes: fireside chats, a swag bag, book talk with bestselling thriller authors, an author expo, and a game show night you won't forget. Headlining authors include BA Paris, Sarah Pekkanen, Jason Rekulak, and Ashley Winstead.
CALIFORNIA
February 26-March 1: Tales of the Weller House: A Mendocino Coast Horror Writing Retreat—Fort Bragg
- In this immersive horror weekend, you'll have the chance to work with horror experts Kate Maruyama and M. M. Olivas in the oldest house in Fort Bragg—a Gothic mansion with a historic water tower, nestled between ancient redwoods and the crashing Pacific. In the company of fellow horror writers, push your work beyond what you've imagined into the professional realm. Come away with stronger stories and professional tools that you'll carry into your writing in the years to come.
FLORIDA
February 20-22: Pensacon—Pensacola
- Pensacon is the Gulf Coast's premier pop culture convention celebrating the worlds of science fiction, fantasy, horror, comic books, cosplay, animation, video games, books and much, much more. The three-day event draws tens of thousands to downtown Pensacola and takes place across multiple venues. Guests include Jack Osbourne, Erik Estrada, Christopher Lambert, Scott McCord, and many more. Families and attendees of all ages are welcome.
February 27-March 1: Scaradise 2026—Tampa
- The ultimate destination for horror fans, fright seekers, and pop culture enthusiasts. Formerly known as Spookala, this reimagined event has leveled up to bring guests an even bigger and bolder experience. From celebrity guests and panels to haunted attractions, vendors, live entertainment, and unforgettable scares. Guests include Vincent D'Onofrio, Shannon Elizabeth, Christopher McDonald, Matthew Lillard, Jack Quaid, and more. Family friendly.
GEORGIA
February 20-22: Days of the Dead—Atlanta
- Chock full of special events tailored just for the fans, an active after hours scene of horror-themed parties, and a massive guest list of the hottest celebrity guests, artists, and up and coming independent filmmakers, Days of the Dead is rewriting the script and setting the bar for what a true horror convention weekend should look like. Guests include Brad Dourif, Linda Blair, Eli Roth, and many more. Kids 10 and under are admitted free; all first responders and military are free with proper ID.
INDIANA
February 28-March 1: Evansville Horror Con—Evansville
- Enjoy a weekend filled with frights, featuring celebrity guests, thrilling panels, unique vendors, and more. Dive into the horror community and make unforgettable memories. Guests include Devon Sawa, Jack Osbourne, Richard Brake, Nancy Loomis, and more. Family friendly.
MASSACHUSETTS
February 21-22: Dead of Winter Horror Festival—Worcester
- A horror convention with film festival programming, Dead of Winter is an independent festival celebrating the artistry of New England and beyond. Including vendors, artists, interactive workshops, celebrity guests, panels, and a film festival showcasing the best of what New England and the world has to offer.
NORTH CAROLINA
February 20-22: Mad Monster Party—Concord
- A horror, sci-fi, and fantasy-themed convention that brings the world’s top genre celebrities and vendors together with their fans to trade stories, attend informative panels, buy autographs and fun merchandise, as well as visit with old friends—and meet new like-minded monsters. Celebrity guests include Jennifer Carpenter, Heather Matarazzo, Peter Criss, and Linnea Quigley. All ages welcome.
PENNSYLVANIA
February 27-March 1: Horror Realm™—Pittsburgh
- The ultimate destination for fans of scary movies, books, games, and more, Horror Realm™ is a convention run by fans for fans of zombies and the horror genre. The convention takes place in Pittsburgh, the Zombie Capital of the World, and features a room with specialty vendors such as books and comics, toys and collectibles, original art, celebrity guests, and much more. Guests include Bill Moseley, William Katt, Greg Nicotero, and many more. Children must be accompanied by an adult at all times
SOUTH CAROLINA
February 7-8: Spooky Empire—Charleston
- A must-attend weekend for fans of horror, Halloween, and rock ‘n’ roll. Meet celebrity guests (such as Ric Flair, Mick Foley, and Bam Margera), shop 200+ vendors and artists, catch films old and new, join one of the largest Zombie Walks, and experience live tattoo artists from around the world. With nonstop special events and legendary parties, Spooky Empire brings the energy of The Dark Side of Comic Con to Charleston. All ages.
TENNESSEE
February 20-22: Con Nooga—Chattanooga
- A Science Fiction convention with Anime, Comics, Fantasy, Gaming, Horror, and Video Gaming programming. Con Nooga's mission is to create unforgettable experiences for fans of all genres and ages. Your one-stop pop culture, multi fandom vendor mecca. Guests include authors Beth DeWeese, Nicole Conway, Kevin Steverson, Jason Gilbert, and more. All ages.
VIRGINIA
February 27-March 1: Scares that Care: AuthorCon VI—Williamsburg
- A three-day celebration of writers, readers, and publishers hosted by author Brian Keene. Featured authors include Sherrilyn Kenyon, Clay McLeod Chapman, Jennifer McMahon, and Nat Cassidy. Although the event is all-ages, some specific panels, readings, or events are 18+ only.
International
UNITED KINGDOM
February 28-March 1: London Comic Con Spring—London
- The Spring convention features stars of film & television for fans to meet, get their autographs, and have their photos taken with them! All this will be taking place at the historic Olympia London. Guests include Brett Gelman, Alex Kingston, Millie Gibson, and Gemma Redgrave. All ages.
March
CALIFORNIA
March 27-29: WonderCon—Anaheim
- WonderCon welcomes over 900 exhibitors across 412,000 square feet, offering comics, original art, collectibles, and merchandise from leading artists, publishers, and retailers. Enjoy exclusive programming, top creator panels, autographs, games, portfolio reviews, the Masquerade, and content tailored for horror fans. All ages.
ILLINOIS
March 21: Ghouliecon STL 2026—Sauget
- A premier horror-themed convention that caters to content creators. It provides a platform for horror enthusiasts, filmmakers, artists, and industry professionals to connect, collaborate, and showcase their work. Explore the latest trends, attend panels, and immerse yourself in the thrilling world of horror at Ghouliecon. All ages.
MICHIGAN
March 14: Michigan Is Dead—Muskegon
- Attend West Michigan's premier horror con and physical media show, hosted by Static Tape Video, inside The Lakes Mall in Muskegon. Dozens of vendors will be there, along with celebrity guests such as Joe Bob Briggs, Darcy the Mail Girl, and Michael Berryman.
OHIO
March 20-22: HorrorHound Weekend—Cincinnati
- This special 20th anniversary event sees the return of HorrorHound Underground, a throwback Drive-in/Grindhouse centric ballrom with dozens of new artists and vendors. Along with celebrity signings, fans can shop for the newest (or rarest) horror toys, t-shirts, posters, VHS/DVD/Blu-rays, masks, and other assorted goodies. Guests include Matthew Lillard, Skeet Ulrich, Ralph Macchio, and David Naughton. All ages welcome, but children under the age of 15 should be accompanied by an adult at all times.
PENNSYLVANIA
March 21: Delco Horror Haven Presents: Third Annual Book Fair—Media
-
Featuring 25+ independent horror authors, live author readings, a kids' corner, food truck, and more, this event is at the Media Community Center. Delco Horror Haven is a 501(c)3 non-profit horror arts organization that supports independent filmmakers, authors, artisans, and the community. All ages.
TENNESSEE
March 20-22: MidSouthCon 41—Memphis
- The longest-running fan-run, multi-genre science fiction convention in the mid-South, celebrating fannish culture across science fiction, fantasy, science, comics, horror, education, costuming, anime, and gaming. Hosting over 100 authors, editors, publishers, scientists, artists, and other guests, it offers more than 200 hours of programming. Guests include Todd Lockwood, John G. Hartness, Sara Lewis, and more.
TEXAS
March 6-8: Big Texas Terror—San Antonio
- An event for horror fans of all ages, bringing top tier talent from the world of horror to downtown San Antonio. Interact with favorite celebrities (Linda Blair, Chris Jericho, and more), get one-of-a-kind autographs, and shop at some of the most unique horror vendors and artists in south Texas.
VIRGINIA
March 28-29: Blood in the Water—Norfolk
- Get ready for a brand-new horror and pop culture experience brought to you by the same promoters who bring you the Tidewater Horror Convention (coming in September). Meet horror icons, pop culture favorites, and industry creators, while browsing unique merchandise, collectibles, comics, and horror-themed art. Guests include Jeffrey Voorhees, Billy Van Zandt, Gigi Vorgan, and John Dukakis.
WISCONSIN
March 13-15: Milwaukee Horror Con—Milwaukee
- Get ready for a "Friday the 13th" weekend of terror at Wisconsin's only horror convention! Enjoy exclusive panels, indie horror films, meet special guests, and discover 80+ vendors offering unique merchandise. Whether you're a die-hard fan or a newcomer, there's something for everyone.
April
MICHIGAN
April 10-12: Astronomicon 9—Ypsilanti
- A comic convention with horror, media, and toy programming. Astronomicon is a pop culture convention featuring celebrity guests from tv and movies, horror, wrestling and more. Guests include Billy Zane, David Arquette, Rose McGowan, Nick Swardson, Mick Foley, and many more. All ages.
OHIO
April 25-26: Final Boss Con—Rio Grande
- A convention for gaming enthusiasts, casual gamers, tabletop RPG fans, cosplay lovers, anime fans, horror junkies, and more. Guests include John Russo, David Fielding, and Rob Paulsen. All ages.
VERMONT
April 25-26: Vermont Sci-Fi, Fantasy, & Horror Expo—Essex Junction
- The Expo spans nearly 100,000 square feet and features 100+ authors, artists, comic creators, guests, vendors, cosplayers, panels, and interactive experiences. Explore panels, workshops, live podcasts, demonstrations, gaming, and more. Guests include Bruce Boxleitner, Claudia Christian, and Patricia Tallman. All ages.
VIRGINIA
April 18-19: Screamiverse Expo—Roanoke- A horror, sci-fi, and arts convention that features special guests, over 100 vendors, and programming including panels, tattooing and piercing, Film Fest, a cosplay contest, and an after party with scaraoke. Guests include Eddie Deezen, Brett Wagner, and Felissa Rose. All ages.
WISCONSIN
April 18: Slay the Lake LGBTQ+ Horror Book Fest—Kenosha
-
Featuring LGBTQ+ and allied authors, a book drive for incarcerated individuals, and a celebration of queer horror literature. This event is a curated book fair for indie and established queer horror authors to connect with readers, with applications closing in mid-January 2026 for participating authors. Ages 18+ only.
May
CALIFORNIA
May 29-May 31: Monsterpalooza—Pasadena
- Meet the creators behind iconic film, TV, and haunted attraction monsters as you explore over 450 exhibitors offering unique creations, live makeup demos, and more. Special guests include Juliette Lewis, Geena Davis, Katey Sagal, Thomas Jane, Kane Hodder, and more. All ages.
CONNECTICUT
May 23: Readers MAYhem: Death by TBR Signing Event—Northeastern
- A funeral-esque signing event that celebrates horror, dark fiction, and the never-ending stacks of books we love (and fear) to read. Meet a lineup of incredible indie and genre authors ready to share their latest works, sign copies, and connect with readers who crave the macabre.
FLORIDA
May 8-9: Tampa Bay Screams—Oldsmar
- The longest-running horror convention in Tampa Bay. A con by fans for fans of grindhouse, drive-in, arthouse, cult classics, and midnight movie cinema and pop culture. Fans come from around the world to celebrate horror, sci-fi and sword & sorcery, shop the Dealer's Dungeon, and meet the celebrities who made fright films great. This event is suggested for older teens and adults.
May 29-31: Spooky Empire—Orlando
- Immerse yourself in a weekend dedicated to horror, Halloween, and rock ’n’ roll. Meet celebrity guests, explore 200+ vendors and artists, catch classic and contemporary film screenings, join one of the nation’s largest Zombie Walks, and watch live tattoo artists from around the world. With nonstop programming and unforgettable parties, Spooky Empire brings the thrilling spirit of The Dark Side of Comic Con to Orlando. Guests include Robert Englund, Brad Dourif, and Warwick Davis.
KENTUCKY
May 16-17: Louisville Horror Con—Louisville
- Experience the ultimate horror during a weekend filled with frights, featuring celebrity guests, thrilling panels, unique vendors, and more. Dive into the horror community and make unforgettable memories. Guests include Jamie Kennedy, Ed Begley, Jr., Vinessa Shaw, Miko Hughes, and Jason Marsden. All ages.
MICHIGAN
May 8-9: Halfway to Halloween Expo—Ann Arbor
- An immersive celebration of all things mystical, terrifying, and macabre, featuring over 150 vendors, an haunted walkthrough, hearse car show, costume contest, and a food truck rally. With live entertainment from fire breathers and glass blowers to dancing witches and terrors on stilts.Vendors will be selling everything from masks, costumes, and oddities to home decor, and much more. Friday event is adults only.
MINNESOTA
May 15-17: Quantum-Con 2026—Plymouth
- A science fiction convention with anime, fantasy, and horror programming that has something for everyone like music , concerts, panels, demos, hangouts, discussions, readings, vendors, artists, actors, signings, authors, and more. All ages.
OHIO
May 2-3: Columbus Horror Con—Columbus
- Get ready for a weekend of pure terror at Columbus' only horror convention. Discover special guests, exclusive merch, creepy panels, and indie horror film premieres. Whether you're a die-hard fan or new to the genre, you’ll meet horror legends, uncover spine-chilling surprises, and connect with fellow fans in a celebration of all things terrifying. Guests include Bill Moseley, Robert Mukes, Walter Phelan, James Duval, and more. All ages.
OREGON
May 8-10: Killer Reader Weekend—Bend
- Hosted by book content creator Kurryreads, this is an all-inclusive thriller/horror reader retreat, with horror author signings, panels, and readings; book swaps, swag, and raffles. Confirmed authors include Nat Cassidy, Paulette Kennedy, Faith Gardner, Paulette Kennedy, and more. Please note this event is restricted to people ages 21+.
June
CALIFORNIA
June 13-14: Horror Con Los Angeles—Los Angeles
- Renowned for its modern, upscale spin on the classic horror convention, this is a true horror cinema experience, offering two immersive days to discover and explore exhibitors, artisans, authors, and FX artists across the worlds of horror, sci-fi, terror, goth, punk, occult, fantasy, the supernatural, oddities, and all things Halloween. All ages.
MARYLAND
June 13-14: Maryland Pop and Horror—Baltimore
- A thrilling weekend packed with celebrity guests, artists, vendors, cosplay, and spooky fun for all ages. Celebrate pop culture, horror, and fandom under one roof. Whether you're a die-hard fan or just looking for something fun and unique to do, this is an event you won't want to miss! Guests include Lochlyn Munro, Shawn Roberts, Dana Hee, and more. All ages.
PENNSYLVANIA
June 4-7: StokerCon® 2026—Pittsburgh
- StokerCon® has been a long-celebrated convention for authors of the horror genre. It's an all-inclusive event where writers of all of the many subgenres of the horror world can convene to share ideas, pitch their new projects, and revel in their weirdness. Guests of honor include Rachel Harrison, Billy Martin (aka Poppy Z. Brite), John Shirley, and more. (Virtual attendance is also available) All ages.
June 12-14: Monster Bash Conference—Cranberry Township
- Features more than 100 vendor tables of collectibles, monster magazines, original movie posters, Blu-Rays, DVDs, VHS, model kits, action figures, comic books, vintage toys, and more. Guests of honor include Butch Patrick, Bill Diamond, Gary Conway, and many more. All ages.
June 14: Delco Horror Haven Film Festival—Media
- Delco Horror Haven Film Festival, celebrating its third year, will have multiple blocks of independent horror shorts, filmmakers, and special guests in attendance. Enjoy delicious food and drinks (not included with ticket), as you enjoy viewing original horror films.
TENNESSEE
June 26-28: FrankenCon—Alcoa
- Three days of old-school horror—join horror fans, filmmakers, authors, vendors, and celebrities for an unforgettable experience packed with terrifying panels, scene breakdowns, thrilling meet-and-greets, the FrankenFilm Fest, FrankenStories, special screenings and more! Highlights include a Scream Queen Reunion and an Original Toxic Avenger Reunion. All ages, but under 16 must be accompanied by a legal guardian.
July
ARIZONA
July 10-12: Mad Monster Party—Phoenix
- A horror, sci-fi, and fantasy-themed convention that brings the world’s top genre celebrities and vendors together with fans to trade stories, attend informative panels, buy autographs and fun merchandise, and visit with old friends and new like-minded monsters. Guests include Tobin Bell, Warwick Davis, Shawnee Smith, and more. All ages.
CALIFORNIA
July 23-26: San Diego ComicCon—San Diego
- Comic-Con is the premier event for all things comics and related popular art, including movies, television, gaming, interactive multimedia, and so much more! Enjoy cosplay galore and take part in unique programming, exclusive previews, and presentations, not to mention the expansive and diverse Exhibit Hall featuring merchandise and displays representing all fandoms. All ages.
KENTUCKY
July 17-19: Imaginarium Convention—Louisville
- Now in its 13th year, this is a unique event for writers and storytellers of all genres, including authors, filmmakers, game developers, artists, musicians, poets, publishers, editors, cosplayers, and many other creatives, and their fans. Features three days full of extensive panel and workshop programming, an expo, a film festival, live entertainment, literary and film awards, and much more. Find a list of the guests of honor here.
MISSOURI
July 11-12: St. Louis Horror Con—St. Louis
- Experience the ultimate horror at this weekend filled with frights, featuring celebrity guests, thrilling panels, unique vendors, and more. Dive into the horror community and make unforgettable memories. Guests include Chris Fehn, Vinessa Shaw, Dave Sheridan, and Felissa Rose. All ages.
PENNSYLVANIA
July 25: Tales as Dark as Time—Grantville
- Whether you love dark fantasy, romance, or magical adventures, this event blends the charm of a book festival with the fun of a fantasy-themed party. Don’t miss your chance to be part of a community where stories come alive and fairytales get a wicked twist. Ages 18+.
TENNESSEE
July 31-August 2: CreepyCon—Knoxville
- This three-day extravaganza features 200+ vendors, live performances, celebrity guests, and chilling contests. Your ticket includes a full slate of free activities—classes, workshops, live demos, stage performances, and floor acts. Visit the website for the latest guest list. All ages welcome, but some content may be inappropriate for younger children. After parties are generally 18+.
International
CANADA
July 3-5: Montreal ComicCon—Montreal
- A major pop culture convention featuring comics, graphic novels, sci-fi, horror, anime, film, games, and more. Now drawing over 60,000 attendees each year, it offers a vibrant exhibit hall, artist showcases, commercial and interactive booths, celebrity guests with photo and autograph opportunities, special panels, film screenings, costume contests, and activities for all ages.
GERMANY
July 2-5: MetropolCon Berlin—Berlin
- MetropolCon is a multimedia event, whose goal it is to bring together the three major speculative genres of fiction: fantasy, science fiction, and horror. These will be showcased, discussed, and celebrated in all their manifold manifestations. Guests of honor include authors Aiki Mira and Becky Chambers. All ages.
August
ALABAMA
August 8-9: Deep South Para-Comi-Con—Enterprise
- An immersive convention uniting paranormal investigators, horror and sci-fi fans, cryptid lovers, and cosplayers for a one-of-a-kind experience. Connect with like-minded people, show off your cosplay, and step into a world where imagination meets the unexplained and curiosity takes center stage. Guests include the founders of Fox Family Paranormal, Rock-n-Roll Ghost Hunter Keith Age, and actor/producer James Stokes, among others. All ages.
CALIFORNIA
August 7-9: Midsummer Scream—Long Beach
- With over 300 vendors, the show floor offers something for every horror fan, from casual enthusiasts to die-hard devotees. Explore horror t-shirts, collectibles, haunted house props, paranormal tools, and much more—including Halloween experiences like immersive productions, escape rooms, and haunted attractions. All ages.
CONNECTICUT
August 22-23: CT HorrorFest—Stamford
- Presented by Connecticut-based horror website Horror News Network, HorrorFest is like a comic convention, but for people that love scary movies. Here, you have the opportunity to meet the real actors from the films you love and shop horror-themed vendors. Guests include Kane Hodder, Rhonda Shear, and Nicholas King. All ages welcome, but recommended for older kids, teens, and adults.
FLORIDA
August 22-23: Tanoshii Con 2026—Daytona Beach
- An all fandom convention where fantasy, sci-fi, horror, comic books, steampunk, anime, gaming, and cosplay collide for two unforgettable days. Experience celebrity guests, award-winning authors, unique vendors, panels, and a community that celebrates every corner of fandom culture. Guests include Candice Rose, Austin Janowsky, and Philo Barnhart.
NEW YORK
August 14-15: Sci-Fi Horror Fest—Vernon
- This horror convention with sci-fi programming is not for the faint of heart! Features The Slasher Shack, where creativity blends into horror: an exclusive space for independent artists, creators, and vendors to showcase their killer work. Guests include Tom McLoughlin, C.J. Graham, Jason Brooks, and many others. All ages.
NORTH CAROLINA
August 21-23: Mad Monster Expo—Concord
- A horror, sci-fi, and fantasy-themed convention that brings the world’s top genre celebrities and vendors together with their fans to trade stories, attend informative panels, buy autographs and fun merchandise, as well as visit with old friends—and meet new like-minded monsters. All ages.
RHODE ISLAND
August 13-16: NecronomiCon Providence 2026—Providence
- A biennial celebration of weird fiction—a genre blending horror, sci-fi, fantasy, and magical realism. Part literary and academic conference, part fan festival, and part global community reunion in Providence. Highlights include the Eldritch Ball and the Sunday morning Cthulhu Prayer Breakfast. All ages welcome, but some panels and late night events aren't suitable for children.
TENNESSEE
August 28-30: Smoky Mountain Terror—Kingsport
- Now in its fourth year, this event features celebrity guests, horror-themed panels, and vendors. Special events include a Twilight-themed after-dark party and a Hocus Pocus reunion. Guests include Steve-O, Marley Shelton, Peter Facinelli, Joe Bob Briggs, and more. All ages.
International
CANADA
August 27-30: Fan Expo Canada 2026—Toronto, Ontario
- Celebrate pop culture with celebrity autographs, insider panels on movies and TV, high-energy Sketch Duels, hands-on “How To” workshops, and photo ops with your favorite costumed characters. Browse a massive show floor for unique gifts and enjoy the ultimate fan shopping experience. Guests: Elijah Wood, Sean Astin, Dominic Monaghan, and Billy Boyd will be reuniting to celebrate 25 years of The Lord of the Rings with an on-stage panel. All ages, but children 13 and under must be accompanied by a parent or adult guardian.
September
FLORIDA
September 26: Florida HorrorFest 2026—Fort Myers
-
A horror mecca convention featuring fandoms of multiple genres. As a long-time collector of horror and pop culture items, the promoter brings Florida an event that will satisfy any fandom. All ages.
IOWA
September 11-13: GalaxyCon Des Moines—Des Moines
- More than a Comic-Con, this three-day festival of fandom features celebrities, artists, writers, voice actors, cosplayers, entertainers, creators, wrestlers, fan groups, panelists, and more. Join fans from across the galaxy and celebrate comic books, pop culture, sci-fi, fantasy, anime, gaming, and cosplay. All ages.
NORTH CAROLINA
September 26: Triangle Terror Con—Durham
- A locally owned and operated horror convention, built by fans-for fans, dedicated to creating a darkly immersive experience that celebrates horror, cult classics, and the creatives who bring nightmares to life. By blending blood-soaked entertainment with hometown pride, they aim to grow horror culture locally while welcoming new faces. All ages.
UTAH
September 24-26: The FanX® Salt Lake Comic Convention—Salt Lake City
- A Dan Farr Productions’ annual event, this is the most attended convention in the state of Utah and the largest comic convention in North America per capita. Past conventions have attracted celebrities such as Stan Lee, Chris Evans, Mark Hamill, Jeremy Renner, Elijah Wood, Dick Van Dyke, Jason Momoa, Buzz Aldrin and many more. All ages.
VIRGINIA
September 11-13: Tidewater Horror Convention—Norfolk
- A spine-chilling weekend filled with celebrity guests, haunted vendors, artists, cosplay, panels, and nonstop scares. From classic slashers to modern terror, Tidewater Horror Convention is the ultimate destination for horror fans of all ages. Come celebrate the screams, the scenes, and the legends that made horror iconic. All ages.
International
CANADA
September 4-6: Creep I.E. Aftermath 2026—Ontario
- Creep I.E. Aftermath is the annual sequel to the "Creep I.E. Con" convention earlier in the year, and features celebrity guests, cast reunions, vendors, themed experiences, and more.
October
CALIFORNIA
October 31: The Monster's Ball: LA's Premiere Halloween Costume Party—Los Angeles
- The sexiest Halloween event in the city. Join us for a night of spooky fun, killer beats, and unforgettable memories. Dress to impress in your most creative costume and dance the night away with fellow party monsters. Don't miss out on the Halloween event of the year!
FLORIDA
October 3-4: The PropCon—Daytona Beach
- The ultimate celebration of props, creativity, and fandom! From haunt and horror effects to anime, cosplay, oddities, stage, and film, PropCon brings together artists, vendors, creators and fans of all things props: haunt effects, cosplay, anime, film, collectibles, oddities, and beyond. All ages.
October 30-November 1: Spooky Empire Film Festival—Orlando
- An extension of the Spooky Empire convention. Hosted by And You Films since 2022, this festival is a home away from home for horror filmmakers and fans alike, united by a shared passion for the things that go bump in the night. A full weekend of horror delights, including dozens of film screenings, industry panels, a massive vendor floor, celebrity guests, a tattoo festival, and more. All ages.
ILLINOIS
October 3: Central Illinois Horror Con—Peoria
- This convention was started with a simple goal in mind: to create a platform that makes it easy for people to connect horror fans and artisans who share their interests and passions. Sponsored by the haunted house attraction Spook Hollow, the YouTube host Slash Sisters, Funko Mafia of Central Illinois, and Blue Orchid Event Planning.
MARYLAND
October 24-25: Frightreads Book Festival—West Friendship
-
- Enjoy the sixth year of Frightreads, a Halloween-themed event with authors, artists, and crafts. Featuring more authors than you'll be able to read, artists with fantastical art, and musical performances by HipHopMcDougal and Beach Creeper. All ages.
MINNESOTA
October 2-4: Crypticon 2026—Minneapolis
- Experience the best in pop culture where film, television, anime, fantasy, sci-fi, horror, and family fun converge. Enjoy a standout selection of indie films at the Crypticon Indie Film Fest & Cryptic Awards. Meet celebrity guests, and browse vendors and artists offering toys, comics, movies, posters, collectibles, art, apparel, and more. Guests include Jeremy Davies, Henry Thomas, Barbara Crampton, and many more. All ages.
NEVADA
October 1-4: HallowScreamCon—Las Vegas
- A brand-new four-day Global Entertainment Mega-Con and Festival, built more like a theme park and immersive experience. This isn't just another convention…it’s a cultural moment waiting to happen. Combining all elements of the entertainment industry with the spectacle and magic of Halloween in the city that never sleeps. Not recommended for children under 13.
NEW JERSEY
October 24-25: Vampires of New Jersey Con 4—Whippany
- Creation’s Vampire Fan Weekend returns to New Jersey for a vamped-up The Vampire Diaries party you won’t forget! Ian Somerhalder, Paul Wesley and more guests will be on hand for non-stop programming, events, live entertainment and more. Some adult content; parents should decide if the content is appropriate for their children.
NORTH CAROLINA
October 10-11: Nightmare Weekend—Raleigh
- Experience the unforgettable as horror legends join together under one roof. Expect epic panels, jaw-dropping cosplay, and edge-of-your-seat unforgettable moments with your favorite celebs, voice actors, creators, and fellow fans. Guests include Eli Roth, Jane Levy, and Rider Strong. All ages.
TENNESSEE
October 10: Appalachian HorrorFest 2026—Knoxville
- Features a curated mix of Halloween- and horror-themed entertainment that showcases the power of storytelling. Expect master storytellers sharing chilling folklore and supernatural tales from local legends and global myths, plus live music to set the mood. The Vendors Village will highlight handcrafted goods, themed merchandise, and seasonal curiosities. Attendees under 16 must be directly supervised by a parent or guardian.
November
ARIZONA
November 13-15: TusCon—Tucson
-
The longest-running science fiction, fantasy, and horror convention in Arizona, this is a fan-driven science fiction, fantasy, and horror convention featuring author panels, readings, films, art, and community celebration of speculative storytelling. All ages welcome, but attendees under 15 must be accompanied by a parent or adult guardian.
CALIFORNIA
November 8: SAM: Storytelling Across Media®—San Diego
- Comic-Con® presents a one-day symposium for aspiring writers and artists, as well as professionals, interested in the art of storytelling. Admission is included with the purchase of a Comic-Con Museum® ticket. Seating in all symposium events is limited and on a first-come, first-served basis. All ages welcome, but attendees under 13 must be accompanied by a parent or adult guardian.
December
LOUISIANA
December 5-6: Cajun Con 2026—Gonzales
- A media convention with anime, comics, fantasy, horror, and sci-fi programming, created by Scott Innes, a multi award-winning radio personality, and concert and events promoter. Scott is the voice behind some of the biggest cartoon characters in the world, including Scooby Doo, Shaggy, and Scrappy Doo. All ages.
Horror-themed events aren't just for movie buffs and cosplayers, they're a powerful way for indie authors to grow their audience, build industry connections, and get books into the hands of dedicated horror fans. These conventions can open unexpected doors. Take the time to research upcoming events, book your ticket or table early, and make the most of the genre’s most dedicated audience.
