Fan Expo Chicago is once again preparing to unleash a whirlwind of pop culture chaos, celebrity sightings, and cosplay overload at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center this August.

With major headliners like Ewan McGregor, Hayden Christensen, Orlando Bloom, Alicia Silverstone, and Brendan Fraser, the 2025 edition promises to be one of the most star-studded yet. Longtime fans of Star Wars, The Lord of the Rings, and cult classics  will have their chance to engage directly with the icons of their youth—an experience that still feels surreal even after years of covering these events.

Reflecting on past coverage from The Graveyard Machine, what always stands out isn’t just the magnitude of the guest list or the scope of the vendor floor—it’s the way Fan Expo Chicago curates a sense of community. Last year’s recap focused on the electric buzz around announcements and the unexpectedly intimate feel of panels that could’ve easily been lost in the noise. Even with massive names in attendance, the event managed to give fans space to breathe, explore, and truly connect with the content and creators they love. It’s a fans convention!

What makes Fan Expo Chicago uniquely compelling is its ability to blend the mainstream with the niche. Yes, you’ll find blockbuster movie stars, but just as vital are the indie horror creators, retro VHS vendors, and passionate fans who dress in immaculate detail as obscure characters. It’s this balance that continues to make the FEC fertile ground for The Graveyard Machine’s brand of coverage—a little nostalgic, a little weird, and always centered on the human pulse of fan culture! The show isn’t just about who’s on stage, but who’s in the crowd and what they bring to the conversation.

As we gear up to attend and cover this year’s event, expect more stories that go beyond the guest tables and Rosemont convention hallowed walls. Whether it’s a forgotten gem found in a vendor bin or a chance encounter with a creator whose work once scared the hell out of you, Fan Expo Chicago remains a space where memory, imagination, and fandom collide.

Stay tuned to TGM for updates, interviews, and strange little surprises along the way – we’re gonna have some fun!