News Summary
This weekend, Kansas City Convention Center hosted the vibrant Planet Comicon, attracting thousands of fans for its 26th anniversary. Attendees enjoyed celebrity appearances, impressive cosplay, interactive gaming, and an extensive marketplace. The event not only highlighted community spirit but also significantly impacted the local economy, showcasing Kansas City’s status as a hub for pop culture enthusiasts.
Kansas City Embraces a Universe of Fandom at Planet Comicon
This past weekend, from March 21 to March 23, 2025, the Kansas City Convention Center became a kaleidoscope of vibrant colors and creative costumes as thousands flocked to the annual Planet Comicon. Celebrating its 26th anniversary, this beloved convention brought together fans of all ages and interests, from comic book enthusiasts to television show aficionados.
A Galactic Gathering of Stars
Fans were not only treated to an amazing selection of vendors and artists, but they also had the chance to meet beloved stars from popular television shows and movies. Once again, David Tennant, the talented actor known for portraying the 10th and 14th Doctors in the iconic series Doctor Who, made his promised appearance. His involvement was particularly exciting as he was one of the most requested guests at the event. Fans eagerly embraced the opportunity to hear him speak, resulting in an impressive line that wound its way through the Kay Barnes Grand Ballroom, which can hold up to 4,000 attendees.
Costumes That Steal the Show
The convention was a veritable feast for the eyes, as thousands of attendees donned their favorite characters. The most common phrase exchanged amongst fans was a hearty, “I love your costume.” One standout look from the crowds was the multitude of **Doctors** from Doctor Who, particularly those inspired by David Tennant’s take on the character.
Among the creative attendees was Alec Collins, a 23-year-old from Olathe, who proudly showcased his impressive custom-built Dalek costume, engineered together with his father years ago for a Cub Scout competition. This shared family passion began when they caught the Ninth Doctor’s debut season in 2005, and their enthusiasm for the convention has only grown over the years.
Interactive Experiences Await
At Planet Comicon, it’s not just about wearing costumes; it’s also about interacting with like-minded fans! Attendees were able to dive into the latest video games at interactive stations, featuring titles like Tekken 8, Street Fighter 6, and Super Smash Bros. Ultimate. Tabletop gaming fans were also in for a treat, with opportunities to engage in classics such as Dungeons & Dragons, Magic: The Gathering, and Pokémon.
A Marketplace of Imagination
The convention showcased over 800 exhibitors, each with unique offerings. Vendors displayed a wide array of merchandise, including stunning artwork, collectible toys, and statues featuring popular characters, giving fans countless options to take home a piece of their favorite fandoms.
Community Spirit Shines Bright
Attendees expressed a deep appreciation for the supportive atmosphere at Planet Comicon. Many were inspired by the spirit of creativity and self-expression that permeated the event. This warmth was particularly evident in personal stories shared by attendees like Amber Rae, who spoke about her journey as she dressed as Hela from Marvel, conveying her empowerment despite chronic pain. The convention welcomed a vast array of backgrounds and age groups, marking it as one of the most inclusive events in the region.
Hometown Pride and Economic Impact
Since its inception in 1999, Planet Comicon has grown to occupy over 400,000 square feet of the convention center, becoming the largest public event held annually at the venue. This fantastic gathering has an estimated economic impact of $13 million for Kansas City, demonstrating not only its popularity but also its importance to the local economy.
As Planet Comicon continues to grow, it remains a beacon of creativity, community, and celebration for fans of all kinds. Whether through costumes, games, or simply sharing stories among friends, the love for pop culture is alive and well, making Kansas City the center of the universe—at least for one fabulous weekend each year.
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Additional Resources
- Fox 4 KC
- Wikipedia: Planet Comicon
- Kansas City Star
- Google Search: Planet Comicon
- KSHB
- Google Scholar: Planet Comicon Kansas City
- Kansas City Star
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Comic Conventions
- KCTV5
- Google News: Planet Comicon 2025
