Experience the ultimate Geek Uprising at Hal-Con Halifax 2025 in Canada – don’t miss it!

Posted on November 4, 2025

Are you a fan of science fiction, fantasy, comics, gaming or cosplay? Then Hal-Con in Halifax is the event you can’t miss. This annual convention brings together fans from all over the world, providing a unique opportunity to experience the world of geek culture in a way you’ve never seen before. In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about Hal-Con, from its origins to what you can expect at the event, why it’s become so important to Halifax, and why you should plan to attend this one-of-a-kind experience.

What is Hal Con?

Hal-Con is more than just a conference. It’s an exciting, action-packed weekend where the worlds of sci-fi, fantasy, gaming, cosplay and pop culture collide. Hal-Con, held annually in Halifax, Nova Scotia, has become one of the largest and most popular conventions in Canada, attracting fans from across the country and beyond. The convention is designed to celebrate all things ‘geek’, with a wide range of activities catering to all types of fans. Whether you’re a fan of comics, video games, board games, or cosplay, Hal-Con has something for you.

Hal universe origins

Hal-Con’s roots go back to the 1970s when the first conference under the name “Halcon” was held at Dalhousie University in Halifax. However, the event was discontinued for a while, before being revived in 2010. Since then, it has grown from a small gathering to a large conference that attracts thousands of people every year. By 2018, the event’s expected attendance reached over 15,000 fans, and has continued to grow.

The revival of Hal-Con in 2010 marked a new era for geek culture in Halifax. It gave fans a platform to meet others who shared their interests and a space to celebrate their favorite genres. Over the years, the convention has evolved into an event that embraces all aspects of geek culture, from movies and TV shows to comic books, video games, and live-action role-playing.

What to expect at HAL CON 2025

Hal-Con 2025 promises to be bigger and better than ever. The event is scheduled to take place November 7-9, 2025 at the Halifax Convention Centre, and will feature a packed schedule of activities. Whether you’re a returning fan or a newbie, you’ll find plenty of reasons to be excited.

Panels and discussions

One of the highlights of Hal-Con is the wide range of panels and discussions featuring some of the biggest names in geek culture. Expect Q&A sessions with celebrities, as well as talks from creators, actors and writers. These panels provide a unique opportunity to hear from the people behind your favorite shows, games, and comics.

In 2025, you’ll have the opportunity to hear from well-known names in the industry, such as talented voice actors, writers, and directors bringing your favorite characters to life. These panels are interactive, allowing fans to ask questions and interact with their artists in a way not possible in traditional settings.

Cosplay competitions and reviews

Cosplay is a huge part of Hal-Con, and the convention features some of the most creative and impressive costumes you’ll ever see. Fans come from all over to show off their homemade costumes and pay tribute to their favorite characters. Whether it’s a Marvel superhero or a creature from your favorite cartoon, costumes at Hal-Con are a visual feast.

The event includes a long-awaited cosplay competition, where participants compete for exciting prizes. These competitions not only showcase the incredible craftsmanship of the costume wearers, but also showcase the creativity that makes the event so special. But it’s not just about the contest, Hal-Con also hosts a cosplay show, where fans get the chance to strut their stuff for everyone to admire. It is one of the most exciting and vibrant parts of the event, full of colour, energy and emotion.

Games galore

For gaming fans, Hal-Con is a dream come true. The event features an entire gaming area dedicated to video and board games. Whether you prefer traditional board games, role-playing games like Dungeons & Dragons, or the latest video games, you’ll find something to dive into. Hal-Con hosts gaming tournaments, where players can compete for glory and prizes, adding an extra layer of excitement to the event.

If you’re new to gaming, there are also opportunities to learn and try out games with guidance from experts from the community. It’s an inclusive space for players of all levels, so don’t worry if you’re just starting out.

Exhibition hall

The exhibit hall at Hal-Con is a paradise for anyone who loves collectibles, comics, or geek memorabilia. The hall is filled with artists, vendors and creatives, displaying their work and selling a wide range of products. From graphic novels and action figures to crafts and exclusive prints, the Exhibitor Hall is the place to find something special to take home.

You’ll also find a variety of artists and creatives at the event, many of whom will be available to sign autographs or discuss their work. If you’ve ever dreamed of meeting a comic artist or voice actor, Hal-Con is the perfect place to make that dream come true.

The importance of Hal Cone to Halifax

Hal-Con has become more than just a convention. It’s an essential part of Halifax’s cultural fabric. As one of the largest events of its kind in the region, it plays a crucial role in promoting tourism and supporting local businesses. Every year, the city sees an influx of visitors from all over the world, who flock to Halifax to attend the conference. This brings a major economic boost to the local economy, especially in the hospitality and retail sectors.

Hotels in downtown Halifax see a spike in bookings during Hal-Con weekend, and the convention’s proximity to local restaurants, cafes and shops means these businesses also benefit from increased foot traffic. Visitors who attend Hal-Con often extend their stay in Halifax, exploring other attractions in the city and contributing to the local economy in the process.

Hal-Con also plays an important role in building the geek culture community in Halifax. The conference fosters a sense of belonging for fans of all ages, giving them a space to connect, share their passions and celebrate their interests. Whether you’re an artist, gamer, cosplayer, or just a fan, Hal-Con provides a welcoming environment where you can meet like-minded people and make lasting friendships.

How to participate

If you’re thinking about attending Hal-Con in 2025, there are several ways to get involved. First of all, you will need to purchase tickets for the event. Tickets are usually available for single days or as a full weekend pass, and it’s a good idea to purchase early to secure the best price.

If you plan to wear a costume, start preparing your costume in advance. Cosplay is a big part of the event, and the competition is fierce. Be sure to check out the official Hal-Con website for rules and guidelines regarding costumes and props. The event has strict safety policies, so make sure your costume meets the requirements before bringing it to the convention.

For gamers, the best way to get involved is to participate in tournaments or simply spend time in gaming zones, where you can join both casual and competitive games. If you are interested in joining the community of artists or vendors, Hal-Con also offers opportunities for exhibitors to showcase their work. If you’re an artist or creator, apply to be part of the Exhibitor Hall, where you can meet fans and share your creations with the world.

Tips for attending Hull Con

1. Planning for the future: With so much going on, it’s important to plan your schedule in advance. Check out the full event schedule on the Hal-Con website, and make a list of panels, contests and games you’d like to attend.
2. Comfortable dress: Although costumes are a big part of the event, remember that you’ll be walking around for hours on end. Dress comfortably and wear shoes that will keep your feet happy.
3. Stay hydrated and eat well: Conference halls can be crowded and hot, so be sure to stay hydrated and take meal breaks. There are plenty of restaurants and cafes in and around the place where you can have a snack.
4. Network and meet people: Hal-Con is a great place to meet other fans. Seize the opportunity to network, make new friends and exchange ideas with your fellow attendees.
5. Book accommodation early: Since Halifax gets crowded during Hal-Con, book your accommodation in advance to secure a room in the downtown area.

Hal-Con is an unforgettable experience for fans of all ages and interests. Whether you’re a long-time comic book fan, a casual gamer, or a cosplay enthusiast, there’s something for everyone. With a variety of activities, including panels, cosplay contests, gaming tournaments, and an exhibit hall, Hal-Con is an event that brings the best of geek culture into one place. It’s not just a convention. It’s a celebration of everything that makes fandom great.

If you’re looking for an exciting way to spend the weekend, Hal-Con is the event you can’t miss. With its rich history, welcoming community, and action-packed schedule, Hal-Con has something to offer everyone. Mark your calendar for November 7-9, 2025, and get ready to be part of this amazing event in Halifax!