Halloween weekend is about to get scarier. From October 30 to November 1, 2026, horror lovers will gather in Baltimore, Maryland, for one of the genre’s most beloved gatherings. This event brings together film stars, collectors, and everyday fans who share a love for monsters, slashers, and everything that goes bump in the night. If you have never been before, or if you simply want a refresher, this guide covers everything you need to know before you go.
What Is This Event, Anyway?
This convention has run since 2003, and it started as a small idea between a father and son during a car ride. Over the years, it grew into a full weekend event that travels between a few cities each year. The gathering focuses on horror film history, and it gives fans a chance to meet actors from classic and modern scary movies. There are autograph sessions, photo opportunities, panel discussions, and a large dealers room filled with rare collectibles, posters, and merchandise.
Unlike massive pop culture expos that try to cover every fandom, this show stays focused. It is built by horror fans, for horror fans. That focus is part of why it has kept a loyal following for more than two decades.
Where and When Will It Take Place
The upcoming edition takes place at the Hilton Baltimore Inner Harbor Hotel. The venue sits close to the waterfront, so attendees can easily combine the weekend with sightseeing, dining, or a stroll along the harbor. Below is a quick look at the key details.
| Detail | Information |
| Dates | October 30 to November 1, 2026 |
| Location | Hilton Baltimore Inner Harbor Hotel, Baltimore, MD |
| Duration | Three days |
| Typical Friday hours | 4:00 PM to 10:00 PM |
| Typical Saturday hours | 10:00 AM to 6:00 or 7:00 PM |
| Typical Sunday hours | 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM |
| Ticket range | Roughly 40 dollars for single-day passes up to around 150 dollars for VIP packages |
Because this falls right around Halloween, the timing feels especially fitting. Fans can dress up, celebrate the holiday, and spend the weekend surrounded by people who share the same passion for horror cinema.
Why the Baltimore Location Matters
This gathering rotates between a handful of cities throughout the year, including Cherry Hill, New Jersey, and Oaks, Pennsylvania. Each stop has its own personality, but the Baltimore weekend has become a fan favorite because it lands so close to Halloween. Many attendees treat it as their main holiday tradition, and the harbor setting adds a scenic backdrop that other venues do not offer.
Additionally, the hotel itself is walkable to restaurants, shops, and the aquarium, so families or groups who want to turn the weekend into a mini getaway have plenty of options nearby.
What Fans Can Expect Inside
Once inside, guests will find a mix of activities spread across the weekend. Here is a general breakdown of what typically fills the schedule.
- Celebrity autograph sessions with actors from horror films spanning several decades
- Photo opportunities where fans can pose with stars and themed props
- Panel discussions covering behind-the-scenes stories and film history
- A large dealers room stocked with vintage toys, posters, and rare prints
- A costume contest that celebrates creativity and craftsmanship
- Late-night film screenings for those who want to keep the scares going after dark
- A charity auction that supports causes chosen by the organizers
Because the schedule can shift slightly from year to year, it helps to check the official website closer to the event date for a finalized guest list and hour-by-hour agenda.
Who Usually Shows Up as Guests
Guest lineups change with each show, and confirmed names are typically announced in the months leading up to the weekend. However, past events have featured actors known for roles in slasher franchises, supernatural thrillers, and cult classics. Many guests return for multiple years because they enjoy connecting with the fan community, and that familiarity gives the event a warm, welcoming feel despite its spooky theme.
If there is a specific actor you hope to meet, it is worth following the official social media pages. Announcements roll out gradually, so staying updated ensures you do not miss news about someone you are excited to see.
Tips for First-Time Attendees
Walking into a large convention for the first time can feel overwhelming. Therefore, a little preparation goes a long way. Consider these tips before you arrive.
- Buy tickets in advance whenever possible, since prices sometimes increase closer to the date
- Bring cash for smaller vendors, even though many now accept cards
- Wear comfortable shoes, because the dealers room and autograph lines involve a lot of walking and standing
- Check the guest list ahead of time so you can plan your day around must-see appearances
- Arrive early on Saturday, which tends to be the busiest day of the weekend
- Pack a small bag for merchandise, posters, and any collectibles you pick up along the way
New attendees often find that the community is friendly and inclusive. People bond quickly over shared favorite films, and conversations in line can turn into lasting friendships.
Making the Most of Your Weekend
Planning ahead can transform a good weekend into a great one. Start by deciding which days matter most to you. Friday evening tends to be quieter, which makes it a good time for browsing the dealers room without long lines. Saturday usually draws the biggest crowds, so budget extra time for autograph queues. Sunday often has a more relaxed pace, which suits fans who prefer a calmer final day.
Additionally, many attendees choose to dress in costume, especially since the event lands right before Halloween. Costume contests reward creativity, and even those who do not compete enjoy seeing the detailed outfits worn throughout the venue. If you plan to dress up, comfort should still come first, since you will likely be on your feet for hours at a time.
Booking your hotel room early is another smart move. The host hotel fills up quickly, and staying on-site means you can rest between sessions without losing convention time to travel.
A Brief Look at the Convention’s History
This gathering began in 2003 in Cherry Hill, New Jersey, founded by an organizer who wanted to honor his father’s love of horror films. What started as a modest weekend has since expanded into a semi-annual tradition with multiple stops across the year. Over time, the event built a reputation for its personal touch, since organizers often interact directly with attendees rather than keeping a distant, corporate feel.
That grassroots spirit is part of what keeps longtime fans coming back. Even as the event has grown, it has managed to hold onto the community atmosphere that made it popular in the first place.
Quick Reference Table
| Question | Answer |
| Edition number | 68th installment |
| Dates | October 30 to November 1, 2026 |
| City | Baltimore, Maryland |
| Venue type | Hotel convention space |
| Best day for browsing | Friday evening |
| Busiest day | Saturday |
| Ticket types | Single-day and multi-day, plus VIP packages |
| Started in | 2003 |
Final Thoughts
This Halloween weekend gathering offers something special for anyone who loves horror films. Between the autograph sessions, panel talks, and packed dealers room, there is enough to fill all three days without feeling repetitive. The Baltimore Inner Harbor setting adds extra charm, giving attendees a scenic place to relax between sessions. Whether you are a longtime fan or planning your first visit, October 30 through November 1, 2026, marks a weekend worth putting on your calendar. Bring comfortable shoes, arrive early on the busy days, and get ready to spend a weekend celebrating everything that makes horror cinema so unforgettable.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the event take place?
It runs from October 30 to November 1, 2026, over Halloween weekend.
Where is the event held?
The weekend takes place at the Hilton Baltimore Inner Harbor Hotel in Baltimore, Maryland.
How much do tickets cost?
Single-day passes typically start around 40 dollars, while VIP packages can reach roughly 150 dollars, depending on what is included.
Is the event good for first-time attendees?
Yes. The community is known for being welcoming, and the schedule includes plenty of activities suited to newcomers, from panel discussions to a lively dealers room.
Will there be celebrity guests?
Yes, though the full guest list is usually announced closer to the date. Past editions have featured actors from a wide range of horror films, so checking official updates is the best way to stay informed.
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