Fantasy Expo 2025: Budapest’s Premier Pop Culture Convention
Fantasy Expo transforms the Bálna Budapest into a vibrant celebration of geek culture on December 6-7, 2025. This weekend gathering brings together fans of fantasy, sci-fi, anime, manga, comics, cosplay, video games, and board games under one roof. With the motto “From Fans for Fans,” the event delivers an authentic convention experience packed with entertainment, creativity, and community.
Whether you’re a seasoned convention-goer or discovering pop culture events for the first time, Fantasy Expo offers something special. Dress as your favorite character, compete in cosplay contests, dance along to K-pop, browse unique merchandise, meet talented artists, and connect with fellow enthusiasts who share your passions.
Event Details
- Dates: December 6-7, 2025 (Saturday and Sunday)
- Hours: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM both days
- Location: Bálna Budapest, Fővám tér 11-12, 1093 Budapest
- Advance Tickets: Starting from 4,000 HUF
- On-site Tickets: Starting from 6,000 HUF
- Premium Tickets: Starting from 9,500 HUF
Cosplay Competition and Performance
Fantasy Expo hosts one of Hungary’s largest two-day cosplay competitions with categories for juniors, beginners, and original character designs. The performance category welcomes those who love bringing characters to life through acting and presentation. Whether you’re a first-timer or experienced cosplayer, you can compete for prizes totaling 200,000 HUF plus additional gift packages. Registration closes November 29, 2025, so submit your entry early to showcase your craftsmanship and creativity.
Need last-minute repairs? Melanworkshop returns as the official Cosplay Healer, offering on-site fixes so damaged costumes won’t ruin your convention experience.
K-pop Dance Zone
K-pop fans will find dedicated programming throughout the weekend. The K-pop dance competition features performances, demonstrations, and dance lessons where you can learn choreography from your favorite groups. Applications for the dance competition close November 21, 2025. Even if you don’t compete, join fellow enthusiasts in celebrating Korean pop culture through music and movement.
Gamer Zone
Test your skills across retro and modern gaming consoles in the dedicated Gamer Zone. Challenge friends to classic games or try the latest releases. The RollCats championship by Hoglet Interactive offers split-screen racing action where you compete for valuable prizes. Sign up at the Hoglet Interactive booth during the event to participate in this fast-paced competition.
Marketplace and Artist Alley
The Fantasy Expo marketplace brings together vendors selling figures, comics, books, handcrafted items, and exclusive merchandise. Find perfect Christmas gifts while supporting independent creators and small businesses. Artist Alley showcases talented illustrators, crafters, and designers selling prints, original artwork, jewelry, and custom commissions. Meet the artists directly, watch them work, and take home one-of-a-kind pieces.
Best deals of Budapest
Meet & Greet Guests
Connect with popular cosplayers and content creators during scheduled meet and greet sessions. Confirmed guests include Jolica, Rwin_Crafts, Linky Cosplay, and Tenshi. These sessions offer photo opportunities and chances to chat with creators whose work you admire.
Workshops at Alkimista Labor
The Alkimista Labor workshop area runs hands-on crafting sessions both days. Learn new techniques, create props and accessories, participate in the on-site drawing competition, or simply explore your creative side. Workshop materials are provided, and you earn raffle tickets by attending sessions.
Kitsuko Teahouse
Need a break from the excitement? Kitsuko Teahouse provides a relaxing refuge where cosplaying maid servers offer hot tea in a charming atmosphere. Recharge before diving back into convention activities.
Main Stages and Programming
Multiple stages host continuous entertainment from morning until evening. Programming includes small concerts, fascinating presentations, panel discussions, martial arts demonstrations, quizzes, and interactive games. Content spans anime, fantasy, sci-fi, comic books, role-playing games, and more.
Themed Zones and Exhibitions
- Anime Zone: Dedicated programming for anime fans includes quizzes, presentations, figure displays, and meetups with fellow enthusiasts.
- Fantasy Corner: Explore worlds of fairies, unicorns, dragons, and orcs through themed exhibits and activities.
- Sci-Fi Section: Star Trek, Star Wars, and other beloved franchises receive special attention. The Égi Szentély Sci-fi Club greets visitors with “Merry Trekmas” celebrations.
- Steampunk Liget: Victorian-era inspired exhibitions and programming showcase steampunk aesthetics and culture.
- Writers Workshop: Authors and aspiring writers connect during the novella competition and writing-focused sessions.
- Role-Playing Games: Try different tabletop RPGs, create characters, and experience storytelling adventures with fellow players.
- Board Games: Meet Hungarian board game designers, discover their latest creations, and playtest exciting new games.
- Harry Potter Universe: Magic-themed activities and exhibits celebrate the wizarding world.
- Marvel and DC Comics: Superhero fans can geek out over their favorite characters without choosing sides.
- Genshin Impact and HoYoverse: The popular game franchise inspires cosplay meetups and themed programming.
- Japanese and Korean Culture: Vendors and presentations explore Japanese and Korean traditions, language, and pop culture beyond anime and K-pop.
Games and Contests
Participate in bingo games throughout the weekend to earn raffle tickets. Each day concludes with a tombola drawing featuring valuable prizes. Test your knowledge during themed quizzes covering various fandoms. Try mini-games, dance competitions on Just Dance, and other interactive activities scattered across the venue.
Getting to Bálna Budapest
Bálna Budapest sits in the city center at Fővám tér, easily accessible by public transportation. Tram lines 2, 47, and 49 stop nearby at Fővám tér. Metro line M4 reaches Fővám tér station directly. Multiple bus routes also serve the area. The distinctive whale-shaped building sits along the Danube River, making it a recognizable landmark.
Purchase advance tickets online to save money and guarantee entry, as the event attracts large crowds. Premium tickets offer additional perks and priority access to certain activities. The two-day pass lets you experience everything Fantasy Expo offers across both days.