The Mile-High Magic is Back: 

There is a specific kind of energy currently descending on Colorado. It isn't just the spring thaw; it’s the rising tremor of anticipation for the single largest pop culture event in the region. FAN EXPO Denver 2026 is rapidly approaching (May 28–31) at the Colorado Convention Center, and this year, the standard convention buzz has escalated into a verifiable roar.  

At COZ Magazine, we live for that energy. We have analyzed the guest lists, the scheduled panels, and the floor plans, and we are prepared to declare 2026 as potentially the most ambitious year yet. The buzz isn’t just hype; it is a direct reflection of a curated lineup that spans the nostalgic to the absolute cutting-edge of pop culture.

The cornerstone of any great FAN EXPO is its star power, and 2026 is leading with a galaxy of talent. In the Science Fiction & Cinematic category, the Mile-High city is bracing for a truly monumental reunion. To mark the 25th anniversary of The Lord of the Rings: The Fellowship of the Ring, FAN EXPO is hosting a primary reunion tour. This "Once-in-a-Generation Celebration" features:

• The Four Hobbits: Elijah Wood (Frodo), Sean Astin (Samwise), Dominic Monaghan (Merry), and Billy Boyd (Pippin).  

• Fellowship Icons: Orlando Bloom (Legolas), John Rhys-Davies (Gimli), Karl Urban (Éomer), Miranda Otto (Éowyn), and John Noble (Denethor).

But the cinematic highlights don't stop in Middle-earth. The buzz is white-hot for the confirmed appearance of David Tennant (Doctor Who, Good Omens). Additionally, fans are gearing up for the biggest X-Files reunion ever, as Gillian Anderson and David Duchovny reunite as Mulder and Scully for the first time in nearly a decade, joined by castmates Mitch Pileggi, William B. Davis, and Robert Patrick.

This year, the standard convention schedule is packed with unique events designed to capitalize on the specific guest mix. Highlights include:  

• An Evening with the Hobbits: A special ticketed variety show and storytelling event on Sunday, May 31.  

• The Boys Cast Reunion: A massive gathering featuring Karl Urban, Erin Moriarty, Laz Alonso, Karen Fukuhara, Tomer Capone, and Valorie Curry.  

• Voice & Animation Showcase: Featuring legends like Peter Cullen and Frank Welker (Transformers), and a massive Star Wars voice cast presence including Sam Witwer, Vanessa Marshall, and Matthew Wood.  

• Anime Arena: Hosting stars from My Hero Academia, Demon Slayer, Death Note, and Naruto.

While the celebrity interactions are the initial draw, the true soul of a convention lies with the fans. This is never truer than in the dedicated Community Zone and the iconic Masters of Cosplay regional qualifier.  

We are already hearing the hum of sewing machines and the scratching of sandpaper from every corner of the Rocky Mountains. The Masters of Cosplay competition has grown into a prestigious national qualifier, and this year’s competitor list is packed with both established veterans and groundbreaking newcomers. At COZ Magazine, our coverage will specifically prioritize these creative geniuses, who embody the technical artistry and community impact we champion.

Perhaps the most exciting part of the FAN EXPO buzz is what is unannounced. As of this writing, there are major schedule gaps and several "Mystery Guest" slots left open. The rumor mill is already working overtime, with fans buzzing about potential additional reunions and "After Hours" themed parties that have yet to be revealed.

The buzz is real, the excitement is earned, and FAN EXPO Denver 2026 is shaping up to be an unforgettable weekend. For the COZ Magazine team, it represents a culmination of our editorial calendar. We will be there—correspondent and videographer—to capture every moment of Middle-earth magic, the X-Files return, and, of course, the groundbreaking artistry of the cosplay community.

Join us at the Colorado Convention Center, May 28th–31st. Denver is ready to buzz. Let’s make some noise!