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Zurich transformed into a vibrant hub for pop culture enthusiasts this past weekend as the Zurich Pop Con & Game Show took over Messe Zürich. The annual event, Switzerland’s largest festival dedicated to pop culture, gaming, cosplay, digital entertainment, comics, anime, manga, and K-Pop, drew an estimated 43,000 visitors over two days, according to reports from the event. From elaborate costumes to cutting-edge gaming technology, the convention offered a diverse range of attractions for fans of all ages.
The atmosphere was electric even before the doors opened on Saturday morning, with attendees traveling from across Switzerland, and beyond. Many arrived at Zürich Hauptbahnhof dressed in character, creating a spectacle as they made their way to Zürich-Oerlikon, where Messe Zürich is located. The convention’s popularity underscores the growing interest in pop culture and gaming within Switzerland, and its position as a key event on the European convention circuit.
Inside the sprawling 30,000 square meter venue, encompassing seven halls, visitors were immersed in a world of entertainment. The convention featured over 450 exhibitors, offering everything from collectible merchandise and artwork to virtual reality experiences and esports tournaments. The sheer scale of the event, with its diverse offerings, created a unique and immersive experience for attendees.
A Cosplay Paradise and Gaming Hub
A major draw of the Zurich Pop Con & Game Show was the “Cosplay Village,” where enthusiasts showcased their meticulously crafted costumes. Attendees, like 17-year-old Mireille Len from Bremen, Germany, spent months preparing their creations. “Two years ago, I was only sewing at home, now I’m walking on stage in front of hundreds of people,” Len shared, highlighting the community and artistic expression fostered by the cosplay scene. Cosplay wasn’t just about display; it was a celebration of creativity and a sense of belonging. A convention staff member noted that cosplay is “more than dressing up; it’s community, it’s a way to express yourself artistically.”
Alongside the cosplay village, the gaming halls buzzed with activity. Retro gaming stations offered a nostalgic trip down memory lane, while modern esports tournaments captivated audiences. Visitors could try out the latest virtual reality technology and compete in various gaming challenges. The presence of esports players and streamers, engaging with fans in panels and competitions, added to the excitement. Even classic games like Pac-Man found a new audience, with nine-year-old Tibor Köhler declaring, “It feels like a time travel, but the games are still cool!”
Beyond Gaming: Art, Culture, and Celebrity Sightings
The Zurich Pop Con & Game Show extended beyond gaming and cosplay, encompassing a wide range of artistic and cultural experiences. The “Japan Corner” featured demonstrations of calligraphy, origami, and martial arts, while the “Artist Alley” provided a platform for emerging manga artists, like 14-year-old Elinora Zürcher, to showcase their perform. Zürcher explained, “I’ve been drawing since I could think. My family consists of artists. Here I can show that my world is more than just doodles in school notebooks.”
Celebrity appearances also drew crowds, with actor Sean Gunn, known for his roles in the Marvel Cinematic Universe and “Gilmore Girls,” participating in a talk on the main stage. The event also featured appearances by YouTubers, streamers, and voice actors, offering fans opportunities for autographs and selfies. Urban artists created vibrant murals, while Disney artist Ulrich Schröder sketched beloved characters like Mickey Mouse and Donald Duck.
A Festival for All Ages
The convention wasn’t solely geared towards younger attendees. A 76-year-old attendee, Hans-Ueli Zürcher, observed the scene with amusement, noting, “It’s something for the young ones, but you can observe how creative and focused they are. That would have been unthinkable before.” Families also enjoyed the event, with parents and children participating in activities together. One mother, Isabelle Tobler, shared that her seven-year-old son, Arthur, was thrilled to draw his own Pokémon trainer.
As the event drew to a close, attendees departed, many still adorned in their costumes, carrying a piece of the convention’s vibrant atmosphere with them. The violet festival wristbands served as a tangible reminder of the weekend’s immersive experience. The Zurich Pop Con & Game Show continues to solidify its position as a cornerstone of Swiss pop culture, fostering a sense of community and celebrating the passions of its diverse attendees.
The Zurich Pop Con & Game Show is scheduled to return to Messe Zürich on September 26-27, 2026, promising another weekend of immersive entertainment and cultural celebration. Organizers are already planning expansions and new features for the next event, building on the success of this year’s show. For updates and information on future events, visit the official website: https://zurichpopcon.ch/en.
What did you think of the Zurich Pop Con & Game Show? Share your experiences in the comments below!