A Decade of Magic: Colorado Springs Comic Con 2026

Milestone anniversaries bring a special kind of electricity to a convention floor, and the 10th anniversary edition of Colorado Springs Comic Con was no exception. Taking over the Broadmoor World Arena from August 21–23, 2026, the three-day pop culture festival delivered big energy, passionate creators, and unforgettable star power.

To give our readers an authentic floor perspective, COZ Magazine reconnected with veteran cosplayer and associate correspondent Phillip Burrell, known across the convention circuit as @303_daywalker. Having attended the very first Colorado Springs Comic Con a decade ago and more than half of its installments since, Phillip stepped onto the arena floor with high expectations—and the event did not disappoint.

Bringing his iconic, head-turning Blade cosplay to the floor, @303_daywalker was met with overwhelming appreciation from fellow attendees and makers alike. For Phillip, however, the real magic of the weekend wasn't just in showing off a polished build—it was in giving back to the community.

"Be kind," Phillip shared when asked about his biggest takeaway from the weekend. "It could be someone’s first con, and please help them have the best experience of their life so they’ll want to come back again. I’ve had several con-goers and cosplayers tell me my positive energy brings them back."

That welcoming spirit resonated across the entire show floor. From cosplayers pulling off multiple mid-day outfit changes to first-time attendees taking in the sights, the sense of mutual respect and camaraderie was palpable throughout the entire weekend.

While the floor was packed with talent, the absolute crown jewel of the weekend for Phillip was meeting the legendary Ms. Pam Grier. The blaxploitation icon, trailblazer, and star of cinematic classics like Foxy Brown and Coffy completely stole the show.

Beyond her main stage panel, Grier delivered deeply personal, down-to-earth storytelling at her booth that left an indelible mark on fans. Described as incredibly youthful, energetic, and immensely grateful toward her supporters, her presence elevated the 10th-anniversary celebration into a truly historic milestone. Fans also enjoyed memorable interactions with other pop-culture trailblazers, including Peanuts voice actress Patricia Patts.

No major event runs without a few floor hurdles. Phillip noted that the primary area for growth remains the consistency of props and weapons checks at the entry gates—a common friction point where rules can feel strictly enforced for some while others bypass checks. Establishing a unified, predictable security standard will be key as the show continues to scale.

On the organizational side, however, the event scored massive points. The pre-check system for VIP badge holders provided expedited floor access, a streamlined process that attendees hope to see expanded to General Admission in future years.

A massive salute goes out to the organizers at Altered Reality Entertainment for putting on an incredible 10th-anniversary event, Leap for keeping professional photo ops running smoothly and on schedule, and the Broadmoor World Arena staff for maintaining a clean facility and a comfortable VIP lounge.

Between the vibrant cosplay community, seamless photo operations, and unforgettable celebrity panels, Colorado Springs Comic Con 2026 proved why it remains a premiere destination for regional fandom. We can't wait to see what Altered Reality brings to the Springs next year—and hopefully, we'll see @303_daywalker showcasing his car on the floor once again!