In the interest of transparency, this review could be construed as a little bit biased since I was more involved with Indiana Comic Convention than I’ve ever been with another event before. I had the privilege of being part of the programming committee as well as hosting panels, but this is still my absolute honest thoughts on how March 14-16th went at Indiana Convention Center in Indianapolis.

Registration moved up to the second floor of Indiana Convention Center this year. The move was initially criticized by attendees online, but people quickly changed their tune. The move provided more space on the show floor so booths could spread out, and reduced some of the crowding in hallways.

With several other events in downtown Indianapolis at the same time, parking and hotels were at a premium. Leaving your car for the duration of the day was running $40-55 near the convention center. Even lots a couple blocks away were in the $40 range, which left many fans grumbling. ICC is shifting the 2026 event to early June, so hopefully that will reduce competition raising prices further next year.

The stacked 2025 lineup featured stars and legends alike, ranging from Erika Henningsen, Mike Coulter, and Rainn Wilson to Twilight cast members, a Star Trek: The Next Generation Reunion, Tony Danza, and Lou Diamond Phillips. The addition of a second main stage for celebrity panels gave fans more opportunities to hear from the stars, however, they weren’t utilized well. Attendance at most panels, celebrity and fan-based alike, were low. It’s a trend I’ve seen across multiple conventions so far in 2025, and I’m not sure why people are skipping out.

The show floor had tons of great options for shopping, but didn’t feel overcrowded. I’m not usually one to fork over some cash at these events, but I bought a watercolor print of Thanos from Squid Game 2 within 30 seconds of walking through the doors. There was a decent variety for fandoms, plus some corporate fun, like Starry giving out cans of their lemon-lime pop, and Wild Bills cane sugar sodas. The only thing I’d change would be adding a couple more food truck options to thin the lines during Saturday’s lunch rush.

One thing I don’t think I’ve ever seen at a convention is a lounge for panelists, especially not one stocked with water and warm drinks to soothe throats. It was thoughtful in its basic existence, as well as location and items offered up. I hope more conventions start offering this basic kindness because it came in handy for many speakers.

Overall, Indiana Comic Con 2025 was a solid event. It was much more chill and peaceful than other events I’ve attended, which was a nice change of pace. Even with sharing the venue with a cheerleading competition, ICC didn’t feel overcrowded or chaotic, which I appreciated.

Indiana Comic Convention will return June 5-7th, 2026. Tickets are not yet on sale.