Fan Expo Chicago 2023

Thank you Fan Expo for providing me with a press pass for the event!

Fan Expo is formerly known as Wizard World and has not changed much when it comes to bringing in talented film and voice actors along with renowned comic book artists.  You can attend question and answer sessions for free, but autographs, pictures and selfies have hefty fees.  This year’s themed movies stars come from Back to the Future (Michael J Fox, Christopher Lloyd, Lea Thompson, Tom Wilson) and the National Lampoon series (Randy Quaid, Christie Brinkley).    Unfortunately, Chevy Chase canceled along with Christina Ricci (Addams Family) and Brent Spiner (Star Trek). 

Many voice actors are present from popular anime shows like One Piece (Colleen CLinkenbeard, Christopher Sabat, Luci Christian, Ian Sinclair) , Avatar (Dante Basco), and My Hero Academia (David Matranga, Justin Briner, Clifford Chapin).  We have seen Mario’s voice actor, Charles Martinet at multiple Fan Expo/Wizard World events and he’s here as well.  Fans had an opportunity to play Mario Kart with him.  There are some themed areas for younger audiences, but many areas and artwork shown are intended for adults.  

Cosplay is encouraged, but respect is emphasized, and touching costumes and/or taking pictures of cosplayers requires their permission first.  Cosplayers will find a vibrant community here and have opportunities to compete and take group pictures.  

I was happy to find a free to play Japanese arcade room.  It was always in use, but the lines to play the fighting, racing, and rhythm games were short.  During one of our visits a circuit blew and half of the arcade machines were off for a short while.

Many merchants sell their wares ranging from comics, game/anime themed weapons, dice sets, trading cards, plushies, t-shirts, artwork and more.  There are multiple fudge stands and they let you have free samples.   I can now say with confidence that I have eaten unicorn poop (fudge).  Wild Bills provides awesome pure cane sugar soda that give you refills all day or for the whole event if you buy one of their sturdy but expensive mugs.  You can bring your mug back to future conventions and only pay the refill fee.  

There are snack and food stalls, but if you go to a nearby restaurant outside of the convention center, you can get your parking ticket validated to make it free.  Some of the vendors sell gourmet coffee and teas.  Last but not least, you’ll find tattoo artists willing to give you a permeant souvenir if desired.  

The Fan Expo events tend to last a few days with the weekend being the busiest, but the most expensive.  Be sure to check the website for pricing and star availability.  There are family discount packages and pre-order pricing available.  

Hope to see you there!