Fan Expo Boston returns to the Hub Friday through Sunday with another star-studded event at the Boston Convention & Exhibition Center. From meeting your favorite celebrities to partying with other cosplayers, here are five reasons to check out this year’s festivities.
Meet your favorite artists and actors
There’s never a shortage of famous faces at the annual event, and this year’s Fan Expo Boston is no exception. The 2025 guest list includes Star Wars actors John Boyega, Temuera Morrison, Ewan McGregor, and Hayden Christensen; WWE legends Kurt Angle and West Newbury native John Cena; “Twister” star Helen Hunt; “Breaking Bad” actor Giancarlo Esposito; “KPop Demon Hunters” voice actress and singer Arden Cho; plus more big names. Autographs and photo opportunities will be available for purchase, while several stars will also take part in Q&A sessions.
Party the night away at the Bard’s Night Bash
Guests with three-day, ultimate, VIP, or Saturday passes can access the Bard’s Night Bash, a new event for 2025. Set for Saturday night, the special afterparty invites attendees to bring “Dungeons & Dragons” vibes with fantasy attire and activities. The festivities will also include a DJ and drinks available for purchase.
Gamers will have plenty to do at the event, which includes an open gaming zone, where attendees can test their skills at titles like “Mortal Kombat 1” and “Super Smash Bros. Ultimate.” Fans can also check out the live “Dungeons & Dragons” nights each evening, when several video game voice actors will play the tabletop adventure with help from the audience. Classic Japanese arcade games and a dedicated tabletop play zone will also be available throughout the weekend.
Step into the foam fighting arena
Think you have Obi-Wan level dueling skills? Take part in epic (and safe) battles in the foam fighting arena throughout the weekend. Fan Expo Boston will have a dedicated space for attendees to face off using various padded weapons, available from open to close each day of the event. Just make sure you have the high ground!
Take a break from the action and kick back with a book from the event’s Free Little Library. Located in the Book Nook, attendees can donate titles as well as pick up new stories to enjoy. If tastes range beyond traditional books, a manga library will be on hand as well, featuring a curated collection of the Japanese-style comics.
Matt Juul can be reached at matthew.juul@globe.com.
