New York Comic Con will open its doors for the 20th time from Oct. 8-11 at the Javits Center. The convention has become an integral part of the fall in New York City, as people from all walks of life walk through the Javits Center doors into a surreal pop-culture lovers’ heaven.
For two decades, the event has been home to the most unique combination of comics, movies, television, video games, and cosplay. All while maintaining its core comic book focus with 500+ artist alley tables.
amNewYork talked with Chris D’Lando, Comic Con’s creative director, to talk about the 20th anniversary, the importance of the event, what visitors need to know, and more.
“To see this event grow from 33,000 fans in 2006 to 250,000 20 years later is incredible,” D’Lando said.
The 20th anniversary celebrates Comic Con’s partnership and connection with Coney Island, another beloved cultural institution in the Big Apple. This year’s Comic Con will be full of that Coney Island flavor and energy, with slideshow performances and on-stage performers throughout the weekend.
A view of signage during New York Comic Con 2025 at The Jacob K. Javits Convention Center on October 12, 2025 in New York City.Photo by Roy Rochlin/Getty Images for ReedPop
Looking back on the core principles of Comic Con, the convention will be star-studded. The 2026 Guests of Honor include the likes of Hayden Christensen, Idina Menzel, Nicholas Cage, Rosario Dawson, and Sebastian Stan. Not to mention the countless other celebrities attending the event for photos, autographs, and panels.
Artist Alley serves as the heartbeat of the event—a dedicated section of the convention floor celebrating independent creators, comic book artists, illustrators, and other creatives. Fans can wander the rows while meeting some of their favorite creators as they showcase their work.
When asked how he would spend a free day at Comic Con, D’Lando’s first stop would be Artist Alley, where he got his start in comics. He says he would spend a good amount of time there: “Our Artist Alley is second to none in the country,” he exclaimed.
His next stop, of course, would be the show floor, aka Exhibit Hall — the heart of the convention with its central marketplace and exhibition floor where fans will find coveted collectibles and immersive setups.
“They’re bringing some incredible booths to the show floor,” D’Lando said. “Huge activations with really cool stuff to do; guests and activities.”
Fans browse comics during New York Comic Con 2025 at The Jacob K. Javits Convention Center on October 12, 2025 in New York City.Photo by Roy Rochlin/Getty Images for ReedPop
Finally, there’s the Panel Hall. Located on the fourth and fifth levels of the Javits Center, the Panel Hall is where some of the convention’s biggest announcements and most exciting projects take center stage. From exclusive advance screenings and major studio reveals to special presentations, attendees get a firsthand look at what’s coming next, with the actors, directors, and creators behind these projects appearing on stage to share their insights and experiences.
First time attending the event? Don’t fret— D’Lando has a few tips to help first-timers make the most of their New York Comic Con experience.
“It’s pretty simple,” he said, before offering a few words of advice: wear comfortable shoes, bring a refillable water bottle, download the New York Comic Con mobile app, and come prepared with an extra battery.
The mobile app, in particular, can be an invaluable resource for both first-time attendees and longtime convention-goers. It includes schedules, maps, things to do, FAQs, and other information designed to help guests navigate the Javits Center and make the most of their time at the event.
Most importantly, D’Lando emphasized the importance of leaving some time to “engage with the community and meet some new people.”
“The best part of the event is when you see people, or groups of friends who tell you, ‘Hey, these are my friends and I talk to them all year round, but we only get to see each other at New York Comic Con or at a convention,’” D’Lando added. Getting to be that meeting place for folks is just awesome.”
Make sure to check out newyorkcomiccon.com for full information about the convention.