Phoenix Fan Fusion 2025: An Exciting Celebration Of Pop Culture In Arizona
I had a blast.
This past weekend, June 6 to 8, 2025, the Phoenix Convention Center in downtown Phoenix, Arizona, transformed into a vibrant hub of creativity and fandom as Phoenix Fan Fusion brought together thousands of enthusiasts for a three-day extravaganza celebrating comic books, film, anime, novels, and more.
This annual genre-blending pop culture convention, a staple of Arizona’s nerd culture, delivered an unforgettable experience filled with stunning artistry, literary brilliance, masterful craftsmanship, and star-studded appearances. From intricate cosplay designs to celebrity panels, Phoenix Fan Fusion 2025 was an example of the passion and creativity of its attendees and participants.
Normally, I try to go to all three days if a convention is over the weekend, but unfortunately, I was only able to attend on Saturday while repping the Rippaverse. However, some relatives attended, and they gave me the lowdown for Friday and Sunday.
The heart of Phoenix Fan Fusion lies in its Lower Level Exhibit Hall & Hall of Heroes, where over 600 vendors, artists, comic book creators, and authors showcased their talents. The hall buzzed with electricity as attendees explored a treasure trove of unique creations. Artists like Jae Lee (New 52’s Batman/Superman), a celebrated comic artist, displayed excellent illustrations that brought characters like Wonder Woman, Rorschach, and Wolverine to life. TV writers such as Alan Burnett (Batman: The Animated Series) had an amazing display of memorabilia from his era of Fox Kids and Kids WB Saturday morning cartoons.
Craftsmen stole the show with their meticulously crafted products, from custom lightsabers to intricate props and collectibles. At booths like Combat Lightsabers, attendees could customize their own battle-ready lightsabers or purchase ones that resembled the weapons wielded by their favorite Jedi and Sith.
The craftsmanship extended to handmade jewelry, detailed sculptures, and exclusive merchandise that celebrated fandoms ranging from Star Wars to Marvel and anime classics. The dedication and artistry on display made the Exhibit Hall a highlight, offering something extraordinary for every attendee.
Phoenix Fan Fusion 2025 boasted an impressive lineup of celebrity guests, drawing massive crowds to its panels and autograph sessions. Simon Pegg, Ming-Na Wen, Maria Tomei, and more were there!
The star of the show was none other than Hayden Christensen, beloved for his role as Anakin Skywalker/Darth Vader in the Star Wars franchise. Fans packed the main ballroom for his Friday evening panel, with some lining up hours in advance to hear him reflect on his iconic role and recent appearances in the Star Wars movies. Christensen’s enthusiasm for engaging with fans was palpable.
No Phoenix Fan Fusion would be complete without its legendary cosplayers, who turned the convention into a living gallery of creativity. From Star Wars characters like Mandalorians, Starfleet officers, and Dragon Ball Z heroes, cosplayers brought their A-game with costumes that showcased hours—if not weeks—of meticulous work.
Of course, the highlight for me was getting Jeph Loeb, Matt Wagner, Jae Lee, and Alan Burnett to sign my copies of The Long Halloween, Batman/Grendel, Batman/Superman Annual, and Batman: The Adventure Continues issue 1, respectively. Each one welcomed the fans to their booths and signed autographs with a smile on their faces.
Phoenix Fan Fusion 2025 was a fun celebration of creativity, fandom, and connection. The artists, novelists, and craftsmen brought their passion to life, creating a marketplace of imagination that inspired attendees. The celebrity guests added star power, while cosplayers elevated the event with their amazing designs. As Arizona’s premier pop culture convention, Phoenix Fan Fusion continues to be a beacon for geeks, proving that there’s a place for everyone to let their inner nerd shine. For those who missed it, mark your calendars for next year’s event and join the thousands who make this convention a highlight of the summer.
What do you think? Let me know in the comments below. Tell me if there is a comic book, novel, movie, or anime you would like me to review.