Pop culture fans across the Caribbean and beyond are gearing up for a highly anticipated celebration of all things fandom, as AnuCon 2026 prepares to welcome guests for its fifth anniversary gathering in Antigua and Barbuda. Scheduled for Saturday, August 15 at the central John E. St. Luce Finance and Conference Centre, the one-day convention will run from 12 noon to 9 p.m., bringing together a diverse cross-section of enthusiasts—from diehard gamers and avid comic collectors to creative cosplayers, anime fanatics, and curious first-time attendees—for a full day of interactive entertainment and community building.
Admission to the event is priced at $30 for general entry, with a family-friendly perk granting free access to all children under 13 years old. Attendees can expect a packed schedule of engaging activities spanning multiple fan interests, including the ever-popular Cosplay Masquerade, competitive gaming tournaments, pop culture trivia challenges, an old-fashioned arm wrestling contest, and the viral spicy noodle eating challenge, with exclusive prizes and surprise giveaways distributed throughout the day.
One of the most anticipated highlights of this year’s convention is the debut appearance of international guest TropicFox, a Los Angeles-based multi-talented creator whose work spans professional cosplay, modeling, makeup artistry, custom prop making, and performance. This marks TropicFox’s first visit to Antigua and Barbuda, and the creator has already shared her enthusiasm for connecting with the nation’s fast-growing local cosplay community while bringing international-level fan experience to the island event.
Now entering its fifth year of operation, AnuCon has established itself as more than just a fan convention: it is a purpose-built, safe, and inclusive space that brings together people with shared passions for anime, gaming, comics, creative work, and technology, while rolling out the welcome mat for newcomers curious about fandom culture. The 2026 edition is backed by major sponsor TechShop, a local business that has stepped up to support the event and the community it serves.
Novan Francis, speaking on behalf of TechShop, explained why the brand jumped at the chance to partner with AnuCon: “One of the reasons we were excited to come on board is because AnuCon represents a growing community of anime, gaming, comic-book and technology enthusiasts. Comic conventions are among some of the largest fan gatherings worldwide, and to know that Antigua and Barbuda is hosting its own for the fifth consecutive year is something to be applauded.”
Dwayne Riley, President of the AnuCon Board of Directors, noted that the event’s consistent year-over-year growth reflects a sharp increase in local interest in fandom culture. “AnuCon is a fun, family-friendly event for everyone, enthusiasts and spectators alike. The community of comic, anime, gaming and cosplay supporters is growing rapidly, and we are happy to provide a safe and exciting environment where everyone can come together,” Riley said. He added that the convention is already drawing international attention, noting: “It is even more encouraging to see people travelling to Antigua specifically to attend AnuCon. That tells us the event has tremendous potential to continue growing.”
Organizers have reiterated that all fans, regardless of experience level, are invited to join the celebration. Whether you are a competitive seasoned gamer, a first-time cosplayer testing out a new costume, a lifelong anime obsessive, an independent creator looking to connect with fans, or just someone curious about what pop culture convention fun is all about, AnuCon 2026 is open to you.