Switzerland is home to one of Europe’s most exciting pop culture festivals. The Zurich Pop Con & Game Show 2026 is set to return this autumn, and fans are already counting down the days. Whether you love gaming, cosplay, anime, comics, or simply meeting your favourite stars, this event has something for everyone. Therefore, now is the perfect time to learn everything you need to know before you go.
What Is the Zurich Pop Con & Game Show?
The Zurich Pop Con & Game Show is Switzerland’s biggest autumn festival for pop culture and gaming fans. It first launched in 2017 under the name Zurich Game Show, starting as a platform for gaming and esports. Since then, it has grown into a massive celebration of digital entertainment, anime, manga, K-pop, cosplay, comics, and much more.
The event is organised by Amazing Event AG and FantasyCon AG. It takes place at the well-known Messe Zürich venue. Over the years, attendance has grown to around 46,000 visitors. That number speaks for itself. The festival has clearly earned its place as a must-attend event in Europe’s pop culture calendar.
Additionally, the festival covers over 30,000 square metres of exhibition space. Seven halls are filled with hundreds of exhibitors, fan communities, live stages, and interactive experiences. It is not just a fair — it is a full celebration of modern culture.
When and Where Is It Taking Place in 2026?
The ninth edition of the festival will be held on Saturday, 26 September and Sunday, 27 September 2026. Doors open at 10:00 and close at 19:00 on both days. So you have a full nine hours each day to explore everything on offer.
The venue is Messe Zürich, located at Wallisellenstrasse 49, 8050 Zurich, Switzerland. The location is easy to reach by public transport, making it convenient for visitors travelling from other cities or countries. However, if you plan to arrive by car, it is wise to check parking options in advance, as large crowds are expected.
Tickets: How to Get Yours
Tickets for the Zurich Pop Con & Game Show 2026 are now on sale. You can purchase them in advance through Ticketcorner, the official ticketing partner. Buying early is always a good idea, as tickets tend to sell out as the event draws closer.
There are ticket options to suit different visitors. Children under nine years old can enter for free when accompanied by a paying adult. Young visitors from age nine up to 13 must be accompanied by an adult. Those under 16 years old are eligible for a reduced admission fee. From age 16 onwards, standard adult pricing applies.
Weekend passes are available too. These give you admission on both festival days, which is great value if you want to make the most of the event. Note that all listed prices exclude Ticketcorner service fees, so keep that in mind when budgeting.
For any questions about the ordering process, Ticketcorner’s customer service team is the right place to contact. Additionally, a discounted afternoon ticket is sometimes available for outdoor areas, making it possible to experience part of the festival even without a full ticket.
Confirmed Guests and Celebrity Stars
One of the biggest draws every year is the celebrity guest lineup. The 2026 edition is no different. Fans can meet stars from film, television, gaming, streaming, cosplay, and art — all under one roof.
Among the confirmed guests are:
- Sean Gunn, known for his roles in Guardians of the Galaxy, Avengers: Endgame, The Suicide Squad, and Gilmore Girls.
- Joe Flanigan, best known for playing John Sheppard in Stargate Atlantis.
- Harry Lloyd, who appeared in Arcane, Game of Thrones, Doctor Who, and Star Wars: The Bad Batch.
- Kaja Chan, voice actress known for Split Fiction, Cyberpunk 2077: Phantom Liberty, and Bridgerton.
- Carina Pusch, popular make-up artist, YouTuber, and streamer.
- Sven Plate, voice actor behind characters in Looney Tunes, Big Bang Theory, and The Super Mario Bros.
Fans can book personal photo and autograph sessions with these guests. Session times and prices are listed on the official festival website. However, spots fill up fast, so it is best to plan your sessions early and check the timetable as soon as it is published.
Programme Highlights You Cannot Miss
The festival offers a wide range of activities and zones that cater to every kind of fan. Therefore, planning your visit in advance will help you get the most out of both days.
Gaming, Esports and VR
Gaming is at the heart of this event. Visitors can try out the latest video games before they officially launch. In previous years, the festival hosted Swiss, European, and even world game premieres. The iconic Just Dance 2026, for example, celebrated its global debut at the festival. This year, GIANTS Software is expected to present the world premiere of Farming Simulator: Signature Edition for the Switch 2. Expect long queues at the most popular demo stations — but they are absolutely worth the wait.
Cosplay Village
Cosplay is a central feature of the event. The Cosplay Village is a dedicated space where attendees can showcase their costumes, take part in competitions, and celebrate creative craftsmanship. There is no costume requirement to attend the festival, so you can come in everyday clothes and still enjoy watching elaborate outfits all around you.
Anime, Manga and Asian Pop Culture
A dedicated Asian Pop Culture zone celebrates anime, manga, and K-pop. Fans of Japanese and Korean entertainment will find merchandise, panels, and community spaces tailored to their interests. It is a warm and welcoming space for fans of all ages.
Artist Alley and Urban Art
The Artist Alley brings together talented independent creators who sell original artwork, prints, and handmade goods. Urban Art showcases large-scale live paintings and street-art installations. Together, these zones highlight the incredible creativity within the fan community.
Creators Lounge and Workshops
Streamers, YouTubers, and digital creators gather in the Creators Lounge. Fans can meet their favourite online personalities in a relaxed setting. Additionally, workshops and panels run throughout the weekend, covering topics from cosplay crafting to game design.
Board Games, TCG and Tabletop
Not everything is digital. A dedicated area for board games, trading card games, and tabletop gaming offers a more traditional but equally exciting experience. It is a perfect spot for groups of friends or families to sit down and play together.
Tattoo Art, Merchandise and More
A tattoo art zone, medieval market, and extensive merchandise hall round out the experience. You can browse unique products from across European, American, and Asian pop culture. Whether you are looking for rare collectibles or everyday fan gear, you are likely to find something you love.
The Outdoor Experience
The festival does not stop at the exhibition halls. An outdoor area with an open-air stage offers live entertainment throughout the day. There is also a street food area where you can grab a meal or snack between activities. This means even visitors without a full festival ticket can enjoy part of the atmosphere outside and then explore the halls with a discounted afternoon ticket.
A Festival for Everyone
One of the best things about this event is how inclusive it is. Families, solo visitors, friend groups, and couples all find something to enjoy. The festival is described as an experience for old and young alike. Children are welcome, and the variety of zones means every member of a group can pursue their own interests.
Photography and filming for personal use are permitted throughout the event. However, commercial photography requires prior written consent from the organisers. Always check the Festival Respect Code and Content Production Guidelines before you start recording.
Tips for First-Time Visitors
If this is your first time attending, here are a few practical tips to help you plan.
First, buy your tickets early through Ticketcorner to avoid missing out. Second, check the official website for the floor plan and timetable before you arrive. Knowing where each zone is located will save you time on the day. Third, if you want to meet a celebrity, book your photo or autograph session in advance — these slots go quickly.
Wear comfortable shoes. You will cover a lot of ground across those seven halls. Also, arrive early in the morning if you want to be among the first to play unreleased games. Queues for popular demos grow quickly as the day goes on.
Finally, follow the festival on social media for the latest announcements. New guest confirmations and programme additions are posted regularly across Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, and YouTube.
Conclusion
The Zurich Pop Con & Game Show 2026 is shaping up to be another unmissable event. It takes place on 26 and 27 September 2026 at Messe Zürich. With a growing list of celebrity guests, world-exclusive game previews, a vibrant cosplay scene, and zones dedicated to anime, art, board games, and more, there is truly something for every fan. Tickets are now available through Ticketcorner, and early booking is strongly recommended. Whether you are a seasoned festival veteran or a first-timer, this is one autumn weekend you will not want to miss.
Frequently Asked Questions
When does the Zurich Pop Con & Game Show 2026 take place?
The festival runs on Saturday, 26 September and Sunday, 27 September 2026. Both days are open from 10:00 to 19:00.
Where is the event held?
The event takes place at Messe Zürich, located at Wallisellenstrasse 49, 8050 Zurich, Switzerland.
Where can I buy tickets?
Tickets are available through Ticketcorner, the official ticketing partner. You can purchase them online in advance. Note that service fees apply on top of the listed ticket prices.
Is the festival suitable for children?
Yes, the festival welcomes families and visitors of all ages. Children under nine years old enter for free when accompanied by a paying adult. Those between nine and 13 must attend with an adult, and those under 16 pay a reduced admission fee.
Do I need to wear a costume to attend?
No, there is no costume requirement. Many visitors come in everyday clothes. However, cosplay is warmly encouraged, and the Cosplay Village is a dedicated space for those who wish to show off their outfits.
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