The Ultimate Guide to Fantasy Book Cons and Conferences to Attend in 2025

Fantasy stories transport readers to worlds of magic, adventure, and endless possibility. But for fantasy writers and fans, the journey doesn’t stop at the page. Book conventions (book cons) and conferences are exciting places to connect with like-minded individuals, showcase your work, and stay updated on the latest trends in the fantasy genre. Whether you're a writer seeking industry insights or a reader hoping to meet your favorite authors, there’s a book con for you in 2025.

This guide explores the top book conventions, conferences, and fairs for fantasy writers and fans to attend in 2025. We’ll cover industry-focused events for writers and publishers and fan-centered conventions where readers celebrate their love of fantasy fiction.

1. World Fantasy Convention (WFC)

• Website - https://www.worldfantasy.org/
• Date: October 30 – November 2, 2025
• Location: Brighton, UK
• Audience: Writers, industry professionals, and fantasy fans

The World Fantasy Convention (WFC) is a prestigious event dedicated to the fantasy genre. With an emphasis on literary fantasy, this con is perfect for writers and publishers looking to immerse themselves in discussions about craft, publishing trends, and the future of speculative fiction.

Why Attend:

• Prestigious awards: The World Fantasy Awards are presented during this event.
• In-depth panels and readings by top fantasy authors.
• Network with literary agents, editors, and publishers.

2. Dragon Con

• Website - https://www.dragoncon.org/
• Date: August 29 – September 2, 2025
• Location: Atlanta, Georgia
• Audience: Fans, creators, and cosplayers

Dragon Con is one of the most significant multi-genre conventions in the U.S. and a haven for fantasy, sci-fi, and pop culture enthusiasts. Known for its incredible cosplay, fandom celebrations, and author panels, It attracts readers and fantasy writers.

Why Attend:

• Massive community of fantasy lovers and role-playing gamers.
• Author signings and panels that spotlight both traditional and self-published authors.
• Opportunities to connect with indie publishers and expand your reach.

Bonus Tip: If you're an indie author, Dragon Con's literary track provides opportunities to promote your work.

3. The Self-Publishing Show Live

• Website - https://www.learnselfpublishing.com/spslive2025
• Date: June 25–26, 2025
• Location: London, UK
• Audience: Self-published authors and aspiring fantasy writers

For self-published fantasy authors, The Self-Publishing Show Live is a must-attend. This conference was led by James Blatch (and previously Mark Dawson) and provided insights on self-publishing trends, marketing strategies, and platform-building for authors.

Why Attend:

• Hands-on advice for fantasy authors looking to go wide with their book distribution.
• Focused panels on book marketing, branding, and reader engagement.
• Great networking opportunities with top indie authors and publishing experts.

4. Comic-Con International: San Diego (SDCC)

• Website - https://www.comic-con.org/
• Date: July 24 – 27, 2025
• Location: San Diego, California
• Audience: Fans, creators, and writers

Comic-Con may be synonymous with comics and film, but it has a robust literary track for science fiction and fantasy authors. San Diego Comic-Con is a massive pop culture event where fantasy authors can reach new, highly engaged readers.

Why Attend:

• Participate in author signings and book panels.
• Opportunities to engage with fans through Q&As and meet-and-greets.
• Great for building your social media presence and visibility.

5. Author Nation

• Website - https://www.authornation.live/
• Date: November 10 – 15, 2025
• Location: Las Vegas, Nevada
• Audience: Independent authors and small publishers

Author Nation is a conference aimed at indie authors across genres, and the fantasy writing community has a strong presence here. With workshops focused on craft, marketing, and publishing platforms, this event is ideal for fantasy authors aiming to scale their author businesses.

Why Attend:

• Learn how to improve your book’s discoverability and boost sales.
• Network with fellow fantasy authors and industry leaders in self-publishing.
• Real-world advice on mastering book launches and advertising campaigns.

6. Balticon

• Website - https://www.balticon.org/
• Date: May 23 – 26, 2025
• Location: Baltimore, Maryland
• Audience: Writers, fans, and creators

Balticon is one of the oldest and most respected speculative fiction conventions in the U.S. While its focus includes science fiction, it also strongly emphasizes fantasy fiction, making it an excellent fit for both fans and authors.

Why Attend:

• Participate in workshops on world-building, character development, and fantasy tropes.
• Meet editors, small presses, and indie publishers.
• Excellent for fans of both epic and urban fantasy.

7. Supanova Comic Con & Gaming

• Website - https://www.supanova.com.au/
• Date: Various (held in multiple cities throughout the year)
• Location: Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and more
• Audience: Pop culture fans, authors, and cosplayers

Supanova is Australia’s premier pop culture convention and includes a vibrant fantasy literature track. If you're a fantasy author or fan based in the Southern Hemisphere, this event is a fantastic way to connect with international fantasy communities.

Why Attend:

• Author panels featuring local and international fantasy writers.
• Cosplay and fandom events that celebrate beloved fantasy worlds.
• Ideal for authors looking to grow their reader base in Australia.

8. Emerald City Comic Con (ECCC)

• Website - https://www.emeraldcitycomiccon.com/
• Date: March 6 – 9, 2025
• Location: Seattle, Washington
• Audience: Fans, authors, and creators

Emerald City Comic Con blends literature, comics, and pop culture, making it an excellent fit for fantasy authors with cross-genre works. The author pavilion and literary panels make it easy to promote your books and connect with readers.

Why Attend:

• High visibility for authors with hybrid works (fantasy graphic novels, epic sagas, etc.).
• Large crowds, perfect for building an audience.
• Opportunities to network with artists, illustrators, and creators for potential collaborations.

9. New York Comic Con (NYCC)

• Website - https://www.newyorkcomiccon.com/
• Date: October 9 – 12, 2025
• Location: New York City, New York
• Audience: Fans, authors, and creators

NYCC is a massive event that draws millions of attendees and is a fantastic place for fantasy authors to reach new audiences. The literary stage hosts author discussions, readings, and signings for fantasy and sci-fi fans.

Why Attend:

• Opportunities to build hype for your latest fantasy release.
• Immense media coverage and visibility.
• Fan-focused panels and cosplay events that celebrate fantasy fandoms.

Final Thoughts: Choosing the Right Book Con in 2025

Whether you're an aspiring fantasy author, a seasoned publisher, or a dedicated fan, there’s a book con or conference that matches your goals. Attend The Self-Publishing Show Live or Author Nation in Vegas for self-publishing insights. If you want a fan-focused celebration, head to Dragon Con or Comic-Con International. For more intimate literary events, ConFusion and Balticon are great choices.