If you’re in Luton this weekend and wondering what’s going on with all the superheroes, Stormtroopers and people carrying lightsabers through the town centre, don’t worry – you’ve not accidentally walked onto a film set. It’s Luton Comic Con!

Returning to the town centre this weekend, Luton Comic Con has become one of the biggest free community events in the town’s calendar, attracting thousands of visitors and bringing together families, artists, gamers, cosplayers, businesses and community organisations for a weekend that’s a little bit different.

Last year, more than 4,000 people attended the event, with over 30 artists, traders and exhibitors taking part. The event also worked with numerous local partners and delivered dozens of community activities throughout the year, showing that Comic Con is about much more than just a single weekend. One of the things I love about Luton Comic Con is that there really is something for everyone. You don’t need to know the difference between Marvel and DC, own a collection of comic books or have spent months making a costume. You can simply turn up and enjoy the atmosphere.

Expect to see incredible cosplay, gaming zones, creative workshops, exhibitions, live entertainment, artists showcasing their work and plenty of opportunities to meet people who are passionate about what they do. There will also be some fantastic vehicles on display, including the famous Batmobile and the Mystery Machine, which I’m sure will be appearing in plenty of selfies throughout the day.

This year’s theme, Heroes for Artists, celebrates the creative people who bring stories to life. Whether that’s through illustration, writing, performance, filmmaking, design or cosplay, the event shines a spotlight on the incredible talent we have both locally and across the wider creative community.

What makes Luton Comic Con special is the way it brings people together. It’s one of those rare events where you’ll see families, young people, businesses, community groups and visitors from outside the town all enjoying the same space. It’s fun, welcoming and full of energy.

As someone who spends a lot of time championing Luton, I think events like this are important. They showcase creativity, support local artists and businesses, encourage people to visit the town centre and remind us that Luton is full of talented, passionate people doing brilliant things.

A huge amount of work goes on behind the scenes from the organisers, volunteers, sponsors and partners who make the event possible. Their dedication has helped grow Luton Comic Con into something that the town can genuinely be proud of.

So whether you’re coming dressed as your favourite character, bringing the family for a day out, supporting local artists or simply curious to see what all the fuss is about, I’d encourage you to come along.

And if nothing else, it’s worth coming into town just to see Batman queuing for a coffee and a Stormtrooper trying to cross the road.

See you there!
About the Author
  • venesa
    Venesa Coodien

    Venesa is Managing Director and Co-Founder of Right FM, a Luton-based business. She serves as a School Governor at Kings House Moorlands and Luton Sixth Form College, and is a Career Advisory Board Member at the London School of Science and Technology, offering expertise to her community.