Cosplayers, film geeks, and graphic novel fans gather under one colourful roof to pledge their pop cultural allegiance during the biannual MCM Comic Con. This is part one of the UK’s biggest pop culture event — the second takes place at the end of October.
What’s on at MCM Comic Con
This year’s special guests include Brendan Wayne (The Mandalorian), Cristina Vee (Genshin Impact, Seven Deadly Sins), Chris Sabat (Dragon Ball Z, My Hero Academia, One Piece) and Jess Harnell (Animaniacs, Transformers, Rick & Morty).
Perennial highlight include the Side Quest gaming zone, where you can try out the newest games on the market (or play old favourites), and Artist Alley for indie comics. Go the extra geek-out mile at Pop Asia – a celebration of the music, food, fashion, anime and manga produced on the other side of the world.
Cosplaying at MCM Comic Con
If you’d like to cosplay, you can show up in your attire or get changed there. Just head to the cosplay desk for further directions. Be sure to check the rules — especially if you’re planning on bringing fake weapons.
Register to take part in the Cosplay Masquerades on the main stage on Saturday and Sunday. You can also register for the Cosplay Central Crown Championships, which will be held on Saturday. The winner gets two free weekend passes for the October edition of MCM Comic Con, where the finals will be held, PLUS travel, acccommodations and £1000.
Going for the first time? Then check out previous years’ offerings for inspiration, and transform yourself into a DIY superhero or graphic novel character. Get close to the backstage action and nab free entry to MCM Comic Con London by doing two volunteer shifts as a steward.
Getting tickets
There are two kinds of tickets to MCM Comic Con: priority entry (£30.00–£36.00) and general entry (£21.00–£28.00). Priority entry ticket holders get in when doors open while general entry ticket holders can enter two hours later. A priority entry weekend pass, which covers all three days, costs £95.00. Entry is free for children under 10.
Purchase by 31st March and the tickets will be mailed to your home, meaning you won’t have to queue on the day to pick them up.
Getting there
The event takes place in the huge ExCel Hall. That makes Customs House or Prince Regent on the DLR your best bet for travel on the day.
Organisers may cancel events, alter schedules, or change admission requirements without notice. Always check official sites before heading to an event.- 276 m from Custom House Docklands Light RailElizabeth Line
- 285 m from Prince Regent Docklands Light Rail
- 0.7 km from Pontoon Dock Docklands Light Rail
