Motor City Comic Con 2025: Your Ultimate Event Guide

Posted by Michael Perna on Monday, April 21st, 2025  1:20pm.

Motor City Comic Con (MC3) returns this spring on May 16–18, 2025 at the Suburban Collection Showplace in Novi, Michigan​. This is Michigan’s largest and longest-running comic book and pop culture convention, going strong since 1989​. Attendees can expect a vibrant, family-friendly atmosphere with thousands of fans dressed in cosplay, browsing vendor booths, and lining up to meet their favorite stars. The con spans three packed days (Friday through Sunday) and is known for its high-energy mix of celebrity sightings, creative artists, and enthusiastic fans of all ages and fandoms​. Whether you’re into comics, anime, gaming, sci-fi, or just geek culture in general, “Pop culture, it’s what we do!” is the event’s motto​ – and MC3 lives up to it with something for everyone.

Motor City Comic Con, Facebook

Dates & Hours

The spring 2025 show runs Friday, May 16 through Sunday, May 18. Hours are Friday 12:00pm–7:00pm, Saturday 10:00am–7:00pm, and Sunday 10:00am–5:00pm​. Friday afternoon will kick things off a bit more low-key, while Saturday is typically the busiest day (with the longest hours), and Sunday wraps up by early evening. The venue is the Suburban Collection Showplace (46100 Grand River Ave, Novi, MI)​, a large modern convention center that hosts MC3 twice a year (in spring and a smaller fall edition)​. Expect massive exhibit halls filled with vendor and artist tables, dedicated panel rooms, a cosplay stage, and more. The general vibe is fun and buzzing with excitement – you’ll see impromptu lightsaber duels in the halls, kids wide-eyed at superhero costumers, and an overall sense of geeky camaraderie. It’s a bit like a mini Comic-Con International but with Midwest charm and a Detroit twist, often hailed as one of the Midwest’s biggest fan events.

Celebrity Guests

One of the biggest draws of Motor City Comic Con 2025 is its star-studded celebrity guest lineup. This year’s guest list is shaping up to be one of MC3’s most impressive, featuring actors, wrestlers, and pop culture icons from a variety of genres. Here are some of the notable names attendees can look forward to:

And that’s not all – the roster goes on, including Anson Mount (Star Trek: Strange New Worlds’ Captain Pike​), Sam Witwer (Star Wars voice actor and Smallville’s Doomsday​), Rainn Wilson (The Office, appearing Saturday​), and many more. In total, dozens of celebrity guests from actors to voice artists to internet personalities will be at Motor City Comic Con 202​5. (Be sure to check the official guest list for the latest updates, as appearances are subject to change.) It’s an incredibly diverse lineup that guarantees something exciting for every fan, whether you’re into Marvel movies, classic sitcoms, horror films, or beyond.

  

Attractions & Activities

Beyond the autograph lines and photo ops, Motor City Comic Con offers tons of attractions and activities to keep you entertained all weekend. On the main show floor, you’ll find the expansive Exhibitor Hall filled with vendors selling comics, collectibles, artwork, toys, apparel, and mor​e. Be prepared to dig through long boxes of comics and browse unique geeky crafts from the many crafters and dealers present – it’s a shopper’s paradise for nerdy goods. Adjacent is Artist Alley, where over a hundred comic book artists, writers, and illustrators will be showcasing their work. This is your chance to meet famous comic creators (past guests have included Marvel/DC legends) and discover up-and-coming indie artists. You can get sketches, buy prints, or just chat about comics with the creators themselves. Don’t be shy – most artists are super friendly and love talking to fans.

Panels and Q&As:

Throughout each day, there will be panel discussions featuring celebrity guests, comic creators, and special topics. These panels are held in separate conference rooms at the venue (check the program for locations like “Panel Room Pearl” or similar). They range from celebrity Q&As – where stars answer fan questions on stage – to expert discussions (e.g. a panel of Marvel artists, or a reunion panel with cast members from a show). Attending panels is included with your admission (except a few special nighttime events). They’re a great way to hear behind-the-scenes stories and see your favorite actors in a more personal setting. Past panels at MC3 have included everything from Star Wars droid-building workshops to cast reunions. For 2025, you can expect must-see panels with guests like Jeremy Renner and Martin Sheen, as well as niche panels (for example, the 501st Legion is hosting a “Costuming in a Galaxy Far, Far Away” panel for Star Wars cosplay tip​). Pro tip: Popular panels will fill up, so get in line early, especially for any headliners.

Cosplay is huge at Motor City Comic Con, and with that comes cosplay contests and activities. On Saturday, the convention will hold its big Cosplay Craftsmanship Contest for adult】. Cosplayers bring their A-game to compete for prizes and the honor of best costume – you’ll see everything from Hollywood-quality superhero armor to ingenious DIY anime outfits. There’s usually a stage presentation where finalists show off their work, often Saturday late afternoon or early evening. Sunday is all about the kids with a Kids’ Cosplay Contest (typically Sunday around mid-afternoon​, where the little ones get to strut their stuff in their adorable costumes (every participant usually gets a prize). Even if you’re not competing, these contests are so much fun to watch and cheer for – don’t miss them if you love cosplay. Additionally, MC3 often has professional cosplay guests and cosplay panels, plus themed photo backdrops around the hall for snapping pics of your costume.

Interactive Fan Groups & Displays:

Scattered around the convention will be booths and exhibits by fan organizations that add flavor to the con. For example, the 501st Legion – Great Lakes Garrison (the famous Star Wars costuming group) will have a large presence. They typically set up Star Wars backdrops, Stormtroopers and Mandalorians roaming for photo ops, and even activities like the “Blast-a-Trooper” Nerf gun game for charit​y. Likewise, Ghostbusters Detroit will be there with Ecto-1 props and ghostbusting gear on display. You can also find life-sized movie vehicles (“Star Cars”): past Motor City Comic Cons have featured the Batmobile, KITT from Knight Rider, and more – keep an eye out in the expo hall for any famous rides (this year’s lineup hasn’t been announced, but the promo mentions “star cars​). There’s also a cool exhibit called “Toothless by John Marks”, where prop artist John Marks brings giant replicas of dragons and creatures (like How to Train Your Dragon’s Toothless) that you can pose with. In fact, you can even ride a dragon for a photo – for a small donation to charity, John’s team will seat you on a life-size Toothless or Light Fury for a memorable snapshot!

Gamers will have a dedicated space too. The iCon Gaming Lounge is hosting video game tournaments and free play all weeken​d. This year it’s focused on Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, with open play and official tournaments running Friday through Sunday. You can join a tournament for a small fee (around $10/day or $15 for the weekend for gaming acces​s) or just play casually and watch others. It’s a fun place to take a break and maybe win some bragging rights. Tabletop gaming hasn’t been highlighted, but often there are a few tabletop demo booths or a free-play board game library as well (check the “Rough Magic Games” area on sit​e). And speaking of games, voice acting fans can check out the “You Are a Voice Actor” workshop – an interactive experience where you can step into a sound booth and try dubbing lines with guidance (a very popular attraction for aspiring voice actors).

Lastly, there are Anime Screenings running throughout the weekend in a side room. Courtesy of the Anime Club of Michigan, they’ll be playing various anime episodes and films for free. The schedule usually includes popular titles; for example, Friday might show a Demon Slayer movie and some episodic series. It’s a nice way to relax and catch some anime if you need a quiet moment away from the show floor – and it’s totally free with your badge.

In short, Motor City Comic Con is far more than just autographs – it’s a full-blown pop culture playground. From browsing the dealer tables, meeting artists, playing games, to snapping photos with cosplayers and props, you’ll find no shortage of things to do between celebrity encounters. Plan to explore and try a bit of everything!

Motor City Comic Con, Facebook

Event Highlights for 2025

Motor City Comic Con 2025 is bringing a few special events and new additions that make this year extra exciting. Here are some highlights and unique experiences to look forward to: 】 After-hours events like the exclusive “Super” screening with Rainn Wilson add extra fun to the convention. MC3 is hosting special panels followed by movie screenings at a local theater, giving fans a chance to relax and enjoy a film with a celebrity guest in attendance.

All in all, the 2025 edition is packed with new programming – from evening entertainments to interactive workshops – that go beyond the typical comic con fare. The organizers clearly wanted to elevate the experience with these extras. To make the most of it, plan ahead for which special events you want tickets for, since they can sell out (the Hardy event and screenings have limited seating). These highlights ensure that even after the convention hall closes for the day, the fun can continue into the evening for those who are up for more.

Tickets & Admission Info

Getting into Motor City Comic Con 2025 is straightforward, and there are ticket options for every need – from single-day visits to full weekend and VIP experiences. Here’s a breakdown of admission types, pricing, and how to purchase:

  1. A special VIP badge and exclusive lanyard (nice collectible souvenir).
  2. An MC3 swag bag filled with exclusive goodies (they haven’t detailed contents, but typically a t-shirt, maybe a comic, and some sponsor items).
  3. VIP priority seating in panel rooms (you get to enter panels first and sit in a reserved section up front, except for the separately ticketed night events).
  4. Fast Pass line privileges for celebrity autographs and photo ops. This is huge – it means you can use a VIP line that gets you through faster to meet guests, essentially skipping the general queue in many cases.
  5. A $25 merchandise credit for the MC3 merch boot​ (so you can snag that t-shirt essentially at a discount).
  6. Wristband mailing included (VIPs can get their wristbands shipped free prior to the con.

The VIP passes are limited in quantity and often sell out before the sho​w. As of this writing, VIP tickets were on sale, but if you’re considering it, don’t wait too long. Note that VIP does not include the cost of individual autographs or photo ops – those are still paid separately if you choose – but it does give you a convenience and time-saving edge for those lines. Also, some VIP perks like priority panel seating can be invaluable for big panels where general admission might end up in overflow rooms.

Refund policy:

Generally, MC3 tickets are non-refundable (like concert tickets). If a celebrity cancels, that doesn’t affect admission tickets (only pre-bought photo op/autograph tickets for that celeb, which typically would be refunded by the photo op company). If for some reason the event itself were postponed, tickets usually roll over to the next date. But barring something truly unexpected, plan that all sales are final – make sure you can attend on the days you buy for.

   

Cosplay Guidelines

Cosplay is a big part of Motor City Comic Con’s atmosphere – you’ll see everything from Marvel heroes to anime characters to creative mash-ups roaming the halls. Everyone is welcome to dress up, but the convention does enforce some commonsense cosplay rules and costume guidelines to keep things safe and respectful. Here are the key points to know if you plan to cosplay or bring prop items:

In summary, cosplay and props are welcome – just follow the rules to keep it safe. The full cosplay & weapon policy is on the MC3 website if you need specifics, but the above covers the main points. The goal is to ensure everyone from young kids to adults can enjoy the inventive costumes in a secure environment. So suit up, have fun, and you might even end up in the con’s cosplay spotlight!

Parking & Venue Tips

Navigating logistics at a big event can be daunting, but a little knowledge goes a long way. Here’s what you need to know about parking, getting to the venue, and other helpful tips about Suburban Collection Showplace:

In summary, plan ahead for parking (bring cash), arrive early especially on the busiest day, and take advantage of the venue’s facilities (in-out privileges, etc.). The Suburban Collection Showplace is pretty easy to navigate and is accustomed to large crowds. With these tips, you’ll avoid logistical headaches and focus on the fun stuff inside the con.

Food & Nearby Dining Options

All that walking and excitement at Comic Con will surely work up an appetite! Luckily, whether you want a quick bite on-site or a sit-down meal outside, Novi offers plenty of options. Here’s a guide to food at the con and nearby dining:

On-Site Concessions:

Inside the convention, the Suburban Collection Showplace operates several food stands. There’s typically a Center Café area toward one side of the hall or in the lobby, where you can get convention center fare: pizza slices, hot dogs, burgers, chicken tenders, pretzels, nachos, and the like. They also sell beverages (sodas, bottled water) and often have a coffee stand for caffeine fixes. Quality is decent, but remember it’s like stadium/ballpark pricing. Expect to pay maybe $4 for a bottle of water, $8-10 for a burger or personal pizza, etc. The lines at these concession stands peak around 1pm (lunchtime) and again around dinner time on Saturday. To beat the rush, try grabbing lunch a bit early (11:30) or a later snack at 2pm.

Additionally, the venue has vending machines in the hallways for drinks. Sometimes, they bring in food trucks that park outside the main entrance – offering things like tacos or BBQ. If weather permits, stepping out to a food truck can get you tastier food than inside, with a shorter line. Keep an eye out near the entrance plaza for any food trucks.

Fireside Grill & Patio (On-site): The Showplace is connected to the Hyatt Place hotel, which houses the Fireside Grill & Patio restauran​t. This is a casual restaurant right at the venue, open to the public (you don’t need to be a hotel guest). Fireside Grill serves American fare – burgers, wings (their wings are actually well-regarded), salads, sandwiches, and has a full bar. It’s a great spot to sit down and decompress away from the crowds for a bit. During the con, it will get busy at dinner time (lots of attendees and even guests might dine there). Consider hitting Fireside in off-peak hours – perhaps a late lunch or early dinner – to avoid long waits. It’s located near the lobby area of the Showplace/Hyatt. If you have time, relaxing on their patio with a cold drink can be a nice break from the convention fray.

Nearby Restaurants (5-10 min drive):

Novi is a commercial hub, so there are TONS of restaurants within a short drive of the convention center. If you want to venture out for a meal, here are some popular nearby picks:

Pro Tip: Since Sunday is Kids’ Day (and kids under 12 are free then), the food vendors on Sunday afternoon will have long lines with families getting lunch. If you’re a regular attendee, you might plan to eat a big breakfast and hold off until a late afternoon meal to avoid that rush, or step out for lunch on Sunday. On Friday and Saturday, the busiest lunchtime is roughly 12:30-1:30pm; if you can time your meals slightly earlier or later, you’ll wait less.

Remember, you can always exit the con for food and come back (just make sure to have your wristband). If you’re doing a food run and have buddies at the con, coordinate to bring something back and picnic in the lobby or outside. There is no official re-entry restriction other than having a valid wristband, and the in/out from parking helps enable off-site dining.

Staying hydrated and nourished will keep your energy up for the long con days. Carry a water bottle – there are drinking fountains to refill (the security might ask that it’s empty on entry, but you can refill once inside). Overall, Metro Detroit’s dining options won’t disappoint, and you’re certainly not going to go hungry at Motor City Comic Con!

Motor City Comic Con, Facebook

Tips for First-Timers

Is it your first time at Motor City Comic Con (or any comic con)? Fear not! Here are 10 essential tips to help newbies (and even veterans) have a smooth and fun experience:

  1. Plan Ahead & Prioritize: Before you even arrive, skim the guest list and schedule (when it’s released, usually a week before the con) to decide your must-do items. Is there a celebrity you absolutely have to meet or a panel you refuse to miss? Mark those down and build your day around them. Some autographs/photo ops happen at the same time as panels – you may need to choose. Prioritize what matters most to you. It helps to create a rough itinerary for each day: e.g., “10am Celebrity X panel, 12pm get in line for Y photo op, 2pm browse Artist Alley.” Don’t cram too much; leave flex time for unexpected cool things.
  2. Buy Photo Ops/Autographs Early: If a celebrity offers pre-sale for photo ops or autograph tickets, and they are a very big name (say Jeremy Renner), consider buying in advance. This guarantees your spot and sometimes a specific time slot. Most other autograph lines are just first-come, first-serve at their table (cash or credit paid there). For super popular guests, get in line early in the day – their line might get cut off if it’s too long. Crew will often hand out tickets or cap the line so the celeb can make it to a panel on time, etc. So, if your heart is set on an autograph, swing by their table in the morning to see their schedule and line situation. Also, budget accordingly: autograph fees range widely. For example, **some actors charge $40, while top-tier stars like Renner or Sheen can be $100+**. Know the prices (often posted online or at the table) and bring enough cash (ATMs on site charge fees). Same for photo ops – pro photos with big stars can run $70-$150 eac​h. It adds up fast, so decide ahead who is worth it for you.
  3. Arrive Early (but Not Too Early): On the day of, get to the venue early, but you don’t necessarily need to camp out at 6am (this isn’t San Diego Comic-Con level crowds). That said, if you want to be among the first in when doors open (to rush to a celeb line or snag an exclusive item), being in line 30-60 minutes before opening is a good idea. On Saturday, hundreds line up by 9:30am for the 10am open. The lines move pretty quickly once doors open. If you already have your wristband, you’ll likely enter through a faster pre-check line. Early arrival also means easier parking (as mentioned).
  4. Wear Comfortable Clothing & Shoes: We’ve said it before but it’s crucial – comfy shoes! You’ll walk a lot. Also, dress in layers. The temperature can fluctuate: cool AC in morning, body heat by afternoon. Many cosplayers even bring a casual change of clothes for later in the day when they get tired of wearing armor or heels. A small backpack can store a light hoodie or change of t-shirt.
  5. Stay Hydrated & Snack Smart: It’s easy to forget to drink water when you’re busy having fun. Dehydration and hunger can sneak up and suddenly you’re exhausted. Carry a refillable water bottle (there are fountains and water coolers around). Pack a few portable snacks like granola bars, trail mix, or fruit. This saves you money and tide you over if lines at the food court are long or you’re in the middle of a panel. Having a snack on hand can be a lifesaver if you start feeling light-headed in a crowd.
  6. Bring Cash (and Protect Valuables): While vendors and even celeb tables increasingly take credit cards or digital pay, cash is still king for speed, especially for smaller vendors or artists. There will be ATMs, but they often have fees and can run out of cash by Sunday. Bring a variety of bills ($5s, $10s, $20s) for easy transactions. Keep your wallet safe – use a zippered bag or inside pocket. The con is generally very honest, but with crowds, you want to guard against pickpocketing or accidentally dropping your money. The same goes for your purchases; keep an eye on your merchandise bags.
  7. Etiquette in Lines and Crowds: You’ll spend time in lines – for entry, panels, autographs, etc. Embrace it as part of the con experience. While in line, be friendly and chat with those around you – you already have common interests, and many a friendship (or at least a fun conversation) has started in a panel line. Always queue up properly (no cutting – people will call it out). If you’re with a friend group and need to leave line for a quick bathroom run, that’s usually fine (tell those around you), but don’t have 5 friends join you after you’ve held a spot – that’s frowned upon. In the crowded dealer hall aisles, practice “road rules”: walk on the right, pass on the left. If you want to stop for a photo or to look at a booth, try to step aside so you don’t block traffic. Patience and politeness go a long way to keeping the experience pleasant for all. And if someone steps on your cape or bumps your shoulder, assume it’s accidental – a polite “excuse me” and smile can defuse any situation. We’re all fans here together!
  8. Explore Everything: Don’t just be laser-focused on one thing; take time to explore the whole convention. Wander Artist Alley even if you’re not a big comics person – you might find a print you love or meet an artist who creates your new favorite graphic novel. Check out the small press and vendor tables – sometimes the coolest unique merchandise or art is at a tiny booth in the corner. Sit in on a panel about a show you haven’t seen; you might discover something new. The schedule is usually packed – maybe you’ll learn about paranormal investigating at a fan panel, or watch a live sketch duel between artists (they do have Sketch Duels event on the schedule). Cons are about discovery, so budget some “free time” in your day to just walk around and take it all in.
  9. Self-Care is Key: A convention can be overwhelming – sensory overload of lights, sounds, crowds. It’s important to take breaks. There are typically quieter corners (like along the wall in Artist Alley or seating areas by concessions) where you can sit for a few minutes. Step outside for fresh air if needed (there’s usually a courtyard or just walk to the car and back). If you’re feeling anxious in crowds, midday Saturday might be intense – consider stepping into a low-key panel to escape the show floor crowds, or spend some time in the gaming room where it’s calmer. Also, wash your hands often or use sanitizer (cons are notorious for “con crud” – with so many people, germs spread). Stay rested: if you’re doing all three days, don’t skimp on sleep thinking “I’ll power through” – you’ll enjoy the con much more if you’re well-rested each morning.
  10. Capture Memories (and Protect Them): You’ll likely take lots of photos – of cool cosplayers, with friends, of celebrity encounters. Make sure to charge your phone fully each day. Consider bringing a portable battery pack so you don’t end up with 0% battery when that perfect photo-op happens. If you get prints of photo ops or buy artwork, have a plan to keep them safe: maybe a poster tube for art prints or a sturdy folder for 8x10 photos (the vendors at the photo op will usually give a plastic sleeve, but it’s flimsy). If you get comics or collectibles, a backpack to carry them is better than flimsy plastic bags. By the end of the day, you’ll accumulate swag – protect those autographed comics or rare finds so they survive the trip home undamaged. And speaking of capturing memories: don’t forget to put the camera down sometimes and be in the moment. The cosplayers and experiences are even better in real life than through a lens.

Lastly, have fun! It’s normal to feel a bit overwhelmed at your first con – so much is happening. But the great thing about comic con is you’re surrounded by people who love the same things you do. It’s one of the most accepting, joyful environments. If you have questions, ask staff or even fellow attendees – con-goers are usually happy to help a newcomer (“Where did you get that map? Where’s the cosplay sign-up?” etc.). By the end of the weekend, you’ll probably be planning your costume or itinerary for next time because it’s that addictive.

How to Make the Most of Your Visit

You’ve got your plan, your tickets, and your energy – now how do you maximize every minute at Motor City Comic Con 2025? Here are some strategies to ensure you squeeze out all the fun and leave with no regrets:

Spread Activities Across Days: If you have a weekend pass, think of each day as having a “focus.” For example: Friday could be your shopping and scouting day – the crowds are lighter, so hit the vendor hall and Artist Alley thoroughly. You can chat with artists without feeling rushed and maybe snag merchandise before it sells out. Saturday can be your big programming day – attend those marquee panels (the biggest guest Q&As are usually on Saturday), enter (or watch) the cosplay contest, and do your scheduled photo ops/autographs. There’s so much happening Saturday that you won’t have a free moment if you plan it right. Sunday is great for catching anything you missed – swing back to that vendor booth you wanted to buy from, get last-minute autographs from any guests who weren’t sold out, and enjoy the more relaxed vibe (many people leave by early afternoon Sunday). Also, some vendors offer Sunday afternoon discounts so they have less to pack up – you might score a deal on that comic or figure you’ve been eyeing. By allocating tasks this way, you’re not trying to do everything all at once.

Key Events Not to Miss:

Make sure you witness the cosplay contest (even if you’re not into dressing up, it’s one of the most entertaining parts of the con – basically a free nerd fashion show with lots of humor and cheers). Typically the adult cosplay contest is Saturday around 5 or 6pm on the main stage. It’s a highlight reel of the best costumes at the con – truly inspiring and often hilarious too. Another must-see is at least one big celebrity panel. If you have any interest in a headliner (say, a West Wing fan for Martin Sheen, or a Marvel fan for Jeremy Renner), go to their panel. Hearing them tell stories live is a different experience than a quick hello at an autograph table. Panels often reveal unexpected anecdotes and show the personality of the stars – you’ll come away loving your favorites even more. Also, swing by the 501st Legion photo area at least once to get a fun snap with Stormtroopers or Darth Vader – they often do group photo shoots at specific time​. (check their schedule at their booth). It’s usually free (though they accept charity donations). And if you’re around Sunday late afternoon, the Kids’ Cosplay Contest is pure joy – seeing little ones in adorable costumes on stage will melt your heart and is a wholesome way to cap the weekend.

It’s tempting to go hard from open to close. But if you exhaust yourself on Day 1, you won’t enjoy Day 2 as much. Take advantage of the fact that the con has long hours. Maybe go hard in the morning, then consider a short break mid-afternoon – even if it’s sitting down for 20 minutes or stepping outside. Some attendees leave for a quick trip to their hotel to freshen up. If you’re doing an after-hours event (like the Hardys show or movie screening that goes till 9 or 10pm), definitely pace during the day so you still have energy at night. Hydrate, eat, rest briefly – you’ll actually be able to last from rope drop to night events and still be in a good mood.

If you’re attending with friends or family, you don’t all have to stick together 100% of the time. It can actually be strategic to split up for certain tasks. For example, one friend can hold a spot in a panel line while another goes to snag an exclusive at a vendor booth when the hall opens. Or if two signings you each want conflict, each of you go to one and share stories later. Have a plan to meet up later (set a location like “meet by the big Bumblebee statue at 3pm”). This way everyone gets to do what they most want, and you cover more ground. Just ensure everyone has a charged phone to coordinate meet-ups. A group chat for your con crew can help keep tabs (“I’m in line for Chris Claremont’s autograph, might be 20 more minutes,” etc.).

Don’t be a passive observer – jump in and participate where you can. If you’re curious about a tabletop game you see being demoed, sit down and try it. If a bunch of people are dancing to the Star Wars Cantina music at a booth (yes, it happens), join the impromptu fun. You’ll enjoy the con so much more when you allow yourself to be a part of the action. One of the best things is talking to fellow attendees – ask a cosplayer about how they made their costume, or high-five someone who’s wearing merch from a series you love. These interactions create the memories you’ll cherish. Also, don’t hesitate to ask questions to exhibitors and guests (when appropriate). At artist tables, ask about their art – you might learn something cool or get a demonstration. At panels, if there’s a Q&A portion and you have a good question, step up to the mic! (Just keep it brief and on-topic – and don’t ask for hugs or weird personal requests during Q&As; that’s a general rule to respect.)

Make sure to take pictures – not just of cosplay and celebrities, but of your group, of the hall, of the funny sign you saw, etc. These are great to look back on. There’s often a big Motor City Comic Con banner or step-and-repeat where you can take a selfie with the event name – do it on Day 1 when you’re full of excitement, and maybe another on Day 3 when you’re loaded with swag and a little tired – it’s fun to see the difference! Some people journal or vlog their con experience; if that’s your thing, go for it. Just be mindful of those around you if filming (ask permission if someone is prominently in your shot).

Despite the best planning, you might not get to do everything. Schedules can change (a guest could cancel last-minute due to a shooting conflict or illness – MC3 will announce it on their website or at the show if so). Panels might overlap. Lines might be too long and you decide it’s not worth the wait. It’s important to roll with it. Have a backup plan: “If I can’t get into Panel A, I’ll go check out Panel B or use that time to get lunch.” Sometimes the unexpected detours end up being the highlight of your con. Maybe you couldn’t get into the celebrity panel you wanted, so instead you wandered to the gaming area and ended up winning a Smash Bros match against a new friend – that’s a win! Keep a positive attitude. The staff and volunteers work hard, and they appreciate friendly attendees; if something goes awry, being kind and patient will get you further (and keep your stress down) than getting upset. Also, respect the rules and the venue – that helps everyone have a good time and ensures the con can keep coming back.

Each day, about 15-30 minutes before closing, announcements will chime reminding people the floor is closing soon. Vendors start closing up, guests finish signings, etc. A pro move: if you’re still around, use this time to swing by any remaining guest tables for a last opportunity. Sometimes, if a line died down, you might get a chance for a quick hello or leftover autographs. (No guarantee – some guests leave early if their line is done – but occasionally a guest with no line might chat or you can snag that autograph you hesitated on, as long as they’re still at their table and willing.) Also, end of day is when some vendors might discount perishable goods (like if there was a bakery booth with geeky cupcakes, they might sell cheap at day’s end rather than cart them home). Just keep your ears open for any “end of con deals.”

  


When it’s all over, you’ll likely be happily exhausted, loaded with goodies, and full of great memories. Motor City Comic Con 2025 promises to be an unforgettable weekend for Metro Detroit geeks and pop culture lovers. By following this guide – from preparing with the right tickets, to enjoying the attractions, to soaking in the community spirit – you’re set to make the very most of your visit. Whether you’re meeting the celebrity of your dreams, discovering a new favorite artist, or just geeking out with friends, MC3 is a blast. Enjoy every minute, take lots of photos, and welcome to one of the *best comic cons in the Midwest. See you in Novi, and Happy Comic-Con!


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