On September 26 and 27, 2026, Messe Zürich will once again be transformed into Switzerland's largest autumn festival for pop culture and gaming. This time with a new visitor record?
Since 2017, the Zurich Pop Con & Game Show has been a fixed date in the calendar of everyone who loves pop culture. The festival sees itself as a meeting place for communities of all kinds, from furries and wrestling fans to K-pop stars. On 30,000 square meters and in seven exhibition halls, gaming meets anime, cosplay meets K-pop, urban art meets Asian street food. What once began as a modest convention is now a record-breaking Swiss event: the organizers are expecting over 46,000 visitors for the first time in 2026. That would be a new record.
Fans are particularly looking forward to meeting familiar faces from the world of film, series and gaming at Pop Con. Actors, dubbing actors and German-speaking content creators will be performing in stage shows and can be experienced up close at autograph and photo sessions or in personal meet & greets. Anyone who has always wanted to talk to their favorite YouTuber or get tips from a gaming pro will have the opportunity to do so here.
The Cosplay Village is one of the most visited areas of the festival every year. National and international cosplayers present their elaborate costumes on the catwalk and in contests, for newcomers and professionals alike. Even those who don't wear a costume themselves are very welcome. Most visitors come in everyday clothes and are simply amazed.
Anime, manga, K-pop and Japanese pop culture have always been a focal point of Zurich Pop Con. In workshops, visitors can try out Asian calligraphy, learn origami or experience martial arts. And if you get hungry: Karaage, ramen, sushi, takoyaki and bubble tea await in the street food area, including vegetarian and vegan options.
In the Gaming Zone, manufacturers present the latest hardware and software, while esports teams compete in spontaneous tournaments. VR stations invite visitors to immerse themselves in virtual worlds. For tabletop fans, there are also board games, trading card games and a medieval market: the offer is so varied that two days are hardly enough.
Artist Alley brings together hundreds of creative artists who exhibit and sell comics, illustrations and fan art. Urban art and tattoo areas with international artists complete the offer.