Canada’s highly anticipated pop culture convention returns this week, with a fresh lineup of celebrity panels, exclusive experiences, brand activations, and hands-on workshops. From cinephiles to comic book lovers, FAN EXPO Canada caters to fandoms in its various forms. Running from August 21-24 at the Metro Convention Centre, this event is expected to host thousands of cosplay enthusiasts and pop culture adepts for a celebration to remember.

Filled with anticipated reunions (including a Back to the Future anniversary special with most of the cast in attendance), limited edition merch, and over 400,000 sq. ft. of unique shopping, there is so much to choose from with all that’s happening on site. For this reason, we compiled a few activities and panels worth noting when planning your convention experience. 

Whether you’d like to sit in on a conversation with Hailee Steinfeld or are looking for ways to make your cosplay look pop, here is our guide to what to do at FAN EXPO Canada 2025.

That Time I Became a Young Indie Creator

August 21, 6:00 pm

There is no such thing as being too young to direct a film or become a content creator. This panel is the perfect launching pad for emerging storytellers, because they will get to hear from young creators about what it is like to be in the industry. Bestselling indie author N.R. Wolfman will share the ins and outs of her career, and answer the audience’s burning questions. 

She Is The One Named Sailor Moon: Terri Hawkes Q&A

August 21, 8:15 pm

Anime fans who grew up in the ‘90s are more than familiar with Sailor Moon, a schoolgirl that is transformed into the princess of Moon Kingdom. For those who watched the English dub of the series, Terri Hawkes’ voice will easily remind you of the iconic character. In this Q&A session, attendees will take a trip down memory lane and learn more about the woman giving a voice to the manga heroine.  

Cosplay Makeup 101: A Beginner’s Workshop For Every Face and Fandom

August 22, 1:15 pm

If you are new to the world of cosplay, and aren’t really sure where to start, this beginner’s workshop will set you up with all the tools you need to nail your cosplay makeup look. Bring your favourite characters to life by uncovering how to use foundation and contour to reshape your features. In addition to learning the basics, you’ll also find out some tips and tricks to make your cosplay makeup last longer and how to apply prosthetics for a dramatic effect. 

The Extraordinary Journey of Heather Locklear

August 23, 12:00 pm

Whether you know her from Melrose Place or Spin City, it is no secret that Heather Locklear has a memorable career. In this panel, the seasoned actress will give the audience behind-the-scenes insights into her journey, as she reminisces on her iconic roles and expands on her enduring impact in pop culture. If you are a fan of her work and are curious to know what happened on the set of the shows and films she’s starred in, attending this panel will be a must. 

Netflix Presents: Wednesday

August 23, 1:00 pm

Wednesday Season 2 Part 1 is out now, but before the second batch of episodes arrives on Netflix, some of the show’s cast members will make a Toronto stop.  Join Joy Sunday, Georgie Farmer, and Isaac Ordonez for a delightfully dreadful panel discussion about Wednesday’s latest season. In addition to hearing from the actors, pass holders can further their FAN EXPO experience by visiting the Alone Zone, an activation inspired by the Netflix series that is located at Booth #933. 

Toronto Got Talent!

August 23, 5:30 pm

FAN EXPO might celebrate fandoms through cosplay meetups and celebrity conversations, but it also allows for people to showcase their talents. Whether you know how to belt out or have a unique skill you can’t wait to share with a crowd, Toronto Got Talent is the perfect opportunity to put yourself out there. There are only a few ground rules to keep in mind. Your act must be family-friendly, under 3 minutes, and can’t include acrobatics. Make sure to sign up 10 minutes before the show starts to get on the list.

A Conversation with Dafne Keen

August 24, 12:15 pm

Dafne Keen has come a long way since her breakout performance in Logan. Not only did she reprise the role of Laura in Deadpool and Wolverine, but she’s also joined the Star Wars canon as part of the prequel series, The Acolyte. In this panel, Keen will open up about her approach to playing complex characters and share insights about her creative process.  

The Many Worlds of Hailee Steinfeld

August 24, 5:15 pm

Few actors are able to tap into the music scene with the same level of tenacity as they do in front of the camera. Hailee Steinfeld is one of those rare few, having put out chart-topping tunes while still making a mark on the MCU. Her performance in Sinners has been raved about ever since the film became a box-office hit earlier this year. In this conversation with Steinfeld, fans will hear all about her acting and music careers, making for a fun inside look into her multifaceted journey. 

FAN EXPO Canada is running at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre from August 21-24. More info.