Comic-Con Africa attracts record crowds in Johannesburg
- North America’s Comic-Con-inspired event celebrated pop culture and gaming in Johannesburg last weekend.
- The four-day festival attracted around 70,000 fans, featuring international celebrities and cosplay.
- Participants expressed that the event created an inclusive environment akin to major sporting events.
In South Africa, tens of thousands of comic book fans and cosplayers gathered in Johannesburg to participate in the sixth edition of Comic-Con Africa. This major event, hailed as the continent's biggest celebration of pop culture and gaming, spanned over four days, beginning on August 28, 2025. It offered an array of activities that celebrated various aspects of the entertainment industry, including anime, gaming, comic books, and cosplay. Attendees had the chance to engage in festive events like vintage arcade games, esports, and cosplay contests, which contributed to a festive atmosphere. Comic-Con Africa provided fans a platform to express their creativity through costumes, with many dressed as their favorite characters, snapping selfies in front of iconic replica sets. Carla Massmann, the Show Director, highlighted a record attendance, anticipating around 70,000 visitors by the end of the festival. Attendees expressed a sense of joy and community, with one participant, Nkosinathi Skhosana, remarking on the inclusive environment that the event created, allowing South Africans of diverse backgrounds to come together in celebration, similar to the unifying nature of Rugby matches in the country. The festival was not only a platform for local fans but also hosted numerous international celebrities. Notable figures included Jessie T. Usher from the series "The Boys," actor Dan Fogler, known for his role in the "Fantastic Beasts" series, and Misha Collins from "Supernatural." Fans enjoyed exclusive opportunities for autographs and photographs, further enhancing the festival experience. One attendee, 23-year-old Owami Sibanyoni, expressed her excitement for the event, sharing her joy in meeting fellow fans and capturing memories in her Sailor Moon costume. Unlike previous years when the event was scheduled for late September, the festival was moved to August to accommodate the upcoming G20 summit at the same venue later this year. The adjustments made to the schedule demonstrate the significance of Comic-Con Africa in the pop culture landscape, offering a safe space for fans and enthusiasts to engage, interact, and celebrate their shared passions without reservations as social issues are often set aside during such gatherings.