Cosplay, comics and creative flair will once again transform Bury town centre this summer, as the Bury BID Comic Con announces new experiences and special guests for 2026.
Bury will be taken over on Sunday, June 28, with the Comic Con bringing a packed programme of pop culture fun and new interactive experiences across eight thematic zones.
The free, family-friendly event is organised by Bury BID in partnership with businesses, venues and sponsors including Orbital and WOW Events.
Nigel Shields, town centre director at Bury BID, said: "Bury BID Comic Con continues to grow thanks to the incredible support of our venues, businesses, partners and sponsors.
"What started as an exciting town centre event has become a fantastic example of collaboration, bringing together organisations from across Bury to create something unique for residents and visitors alike.
"This year we're delighted to welcome internationally recognised comic talent, exciting new experiences and interactive activities while continuing to offer a free, accessible event that celebrates creativity, imagination and community."
Pop culture fans can look forward to movie vehicles, roaming dinosaurs, immersive workshops and hands-on activities for all ages.
A major highlight will be the Doctor Who Zone at Castle Leisure Centre, where fans can meet Paul McGann, who played the Eighth Doctor and is also known for his role in Withnail and I.
The zone will feature artists, writers, and creators from the wider Doctor Who universe, giving fans a chance to engage with those behind the iconic British sci-fi franchise.
Comic enthusiasts can visit the Comic Creator Zone, headlined by V for Vendetta co-creator and illustrator David Lloyd, and John Ridgway, whose artwork includes Hellblazer, Doctor Who and The Dead Man.
The event also brings an international twist this year, with the Festival International de la Bande Dessinée d'Angoulême (FIBD) sending representatives to host live drawing sessions and creative activities.
Visitors are encouraged to book in advance for two of the main interactive experiences.
The Cosplay Zone at The Met will host both children's and adult competitions, with registration required for participants and audience members.
Comic Con: Pen! Paper! Pose! offers fans the chance to learn drawing techniques and create comic-inspired artwork alongside professional artists. Spaces are limited and must be booked in advance.
A new addition for 2026, the Enchanted Zone at Mill Gate, will offer free drop-in workshops led by the League of Curiosity.
Families can take part in magical charm-making and other fantasy-themed activities designed to ignite imagination.
Comic Con will span the entire town centre, with the following themed zones:
- Doctor Who Zone – Castle Leisure Centre
- Comic Creator Zone – Castle Leisure Centre
- Sci-Fi Zone – The Rock
- Movie Zone – St John's Square
- Cosplay Zone – The Met
- Trader Zone – East Lancashire Railway
- Enchanted Zone – Mill Gate
- Jurassic Zone – Kay Gardens
Highlights across the event include appearances by Transformers characters, the Batmobile, Harry Potter’s flying car, and a variety of other vehicles.
This year, East Lancashire Railway will host the Trader Zone, offering visitors the opportunity to browse comics, collectibles, memorabilia, artwork and other pop culture merchandise from specialist traders.
Town centre businesses are being encouraged to decorate their premises and host themed activities to support the Comic Con atmosphere.
Bury BID Comic Con runs from 10am to 4pm and is free to attend. www.discoverbury.co.uk/comic-con
For full event information, bookings and zone details, visit www.discoverbury.co.uk/comic-con/
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