Ballarat's favourite pop culture celebration, PopCon, is back for its sixth annual instalment, promising to be bigger, bolder, and more inclusive than ever!
On Sunday 28 September, from 11am to 4pm, pop culture fans of all ages are invited to Civic Hall and Ballarat Library for a free event packed with creativity, community, and fun.
Organised by Sonika, a youth-led volunteer group supported by City of Ballarat's Youth Services, PopCon is a space to celebrate everything from movies, TV, books, and video games to fantasy, sci-fi, and anime.
With more than 40 stalls, a cosplay competition, tabletop gaming and interactive activities across Ballarat Civic Hall and Ballarat Library, PopCon is a must-attend for families, fans, and curious newcomers alike.
"PopCon is a place where anyone can feel welcome," said Remi, Sonika volunteer.
"You don't have to be a cosplayer or a gamer. Just come along and enjoy the vibe, dress up if you want to, and celebrate what you love; whether that's anime, gaming, comics, or art."
PopCon started with humble beginnings back in 2017 when two youth volunteers wished Ballarat had its own event like Comic Con or Supanova. Through the Sonika program they were able to make their dream a reality, planning and hosting the first PopCon at Ballarat Trades Hall with a couple of hundred attendees.
Since then, it has continued to grow rapidly, this year moving to the larger Civic Hall having outgrown its previous homes at Eastwood Leisure Complex, and Barkly Square.
Several thousand people are expected to attend in 2025, which is a testament to the energy and imagination of Ballarat's young people.
City of Ballarat Mayor, Cr Tracey Hargreaves said PopCon was a brilliant event that highlighted the Council's commitment to Ballarat's youth.
"To have an event like this organised by Ballarat's amazing young people is incredible and it blows me away how much it has grown," she said.
"I encourage people to come on down to Civic Hall for a safe, family-friendly event that brings our community together in a unique and exciting way."
Visitors can enjoy Swordcraft Ballarat's live action role play, learn-to-play tabletop games with Good Games, explore works from local artists, browse food stalls, games, collectibles, comics, and get involved in crafty activities for all ages.
The popular Chill Space will also return this year, providing a designated quiet area for attendees to take time out from the main event to engage in sensory activities, seek support from staff or just hang out.
PopCon also plays a vital role in delivering the priorities of the City of Ballarat's Youth Strategy 2022-2026, which focuses on amplifying young voices, building social connection, fostering creativity, and creating pathways for leadership.
As a youth-led event, PopCon provides practical opportunities for young people to take ownership, develop new skills in event management, and showcase their passions to the wider community.
By empowering groups like Sonika to deliver large-scale, inclusive events, the City of Ballarat is actively supporting young people to build confidence, gain experience, and strengthen their sense of belonging.
