FanFest 2026

Start: Saturday, April 4, 2026 10:00AM
End: Saturday, April 4, 2026 6:00PM

Join us for the 5th annual FanFest! This event is the perfect mix of shopping, performances, live music, gaming, cosplay contest, panel discussions, and workshops! This free event has something for all ages! On the main stage, there will be live performances from Tonali Mexican Folk Dance Group, Nighshade Family, Musician Bryant Perez, Musician Libbaloops, R&B singer Trevon, Qamar Belly Dance, Rebecca Sunshine (kid’s music), and a film showing of director Chris Pendry latest film with Q&A following. Wander through over 60 vendors selling local art, handcrafted goods, collectables, and unique treasures (including vendors from the Oconee Farmers Market!). We'll have a cosplay contest with grand prizes of passes from DragonCon and MomoCon. Prepare to learn more about a new skill with live demos and performances from Athens School of Arms, UGA Juggling Club, and Athens Puppetry Club as well as workshops on Comic Character Design and using a LightWall in filming (lead by Thunderfoot Studios!). Local experts will run panel discussions on Podcasting and using Kickstarter for getting projects funded. Gamers of all kinds will have a dedicated gaming area with pinball and arcade machines, board games run by UGA Board Game Club, Nintendo Switch games, and a host of various D&D and other RPG style games to participate in. We will be hosting a Pokémon card swap with the local Pokémon Card Club teaching the game mechanics as well as Chess games and Mahjong games going throughout the day. From performances to local shopping to learning experiences, FanFest has something for everyone. Bring your friends, bring your family, and get ready for a day filled with all of your favorite things!