Level 15 Unlocked: A Milestone Moment for Hal-Con
Every year, Halifax transforms into a world of lightsabers, legendary heroes, cosmic creatures, and pure imagination, all thanks to Hal-Con, Atlantic Canada’s premier sci-fi and fantasy convention. What began as a grassroots passion project in 2010 has evolved into a beloved, 100 percent volunteer-run celebration of fandom, creativity, and community.
Where Fans of All Kinds Come Together
This November, more than 10,000 fans, from cosplayers and gamers to authors, artists, collectors, and TV and film guests, filled the Halifax Convention Centre. With 148 vendors, bustling gaming rooms, interactive stages, and activity happening on every floor, Hal-Con once again proved why it’s become a cornerstone event for our region.
Celebrating 15 Years of Fandom
Hal-Con 2025 was a milestone year celebrating all the people who bring this event to life. Fifteen years of heroes, creativity, and fans showing up in spectacular style have turned Hal-Con into a beloved annual tradition across the Maritimes. From incredible cosplay builds to family-friendly programming, it is an event that sparks joy for attendees of all ages.
The growth of the volunteer team tells the story of Hal-Con’s success. In 2010, the convention was supported by 10 year-round volunteers and 50 weekend volunteers. Today, that team has expanded to 90 year-round volunteers and more than 600 weekend volunteers, all working together to make the convention possible. Their dedication is the heart of Hal-Con and a key reason it has become Atlantic Canada’s largest sci-fi and fantasy gathering.
Community Impact That Matters
Hal-Con’s reach goes far beyond the convention floor. Each year, Hal-Con raises thousands of dollars for the IWK Foundation and Kids Help Phone through their charity auction and year-round events. At this year's auction, they raised over $10,000 to contribute as part of a long-standing commitment to supporting youth, mental health, literacy, and community initiatives.
Plus, with thousands of attendees coming downtown each year, Hal-Con also provides a meaningful boost for local hotels, restaurants, and small businesses.
Our Space, Brought to Life by Hal-Con
With 120,000 square feet of flexible space, the Halifax Convention Centre becomes fully activated during Hal-Con. It is one of the few events that fills every floor, transforming the entire Centre into a multi-level celebration of fandom.
It’s a transformation our team looks forward to every year. As Event Manager Kathleen King shares:
“Every year, I look forward to hosting Hal-Con as their Event Manager. From bustling vendor halls to tabletop gaming rooms, autographs & meet-and-greets, costume showcases to panels, and mainstage activations, everything comes to life here at the Halifax Convention Centre! The building is filled with energy, imagination, and connection, all thanks to the amazing Hal-Con team.
The whole team is a joy to work with, and we are very privileged to be the home of such an amazing event every year. With 4 floors of meeting space, Hal-Con fills every space. If you haven’t been to a Hal-Con event in the past, I encourage everyone to buy tickets (get them early!) to see what it’s all about and why we love hosting them!”
Keep the Adventure Going
From its humble beginnings to becoming one of Atlantic Canada’s most celebrated fan events, Hal-Con continues to thrive. After an unforgettable 2025, we are already counting down to Hal-Con's return to the Halifax Convention Centre. Mark your calendars for November 6 to 8.
Relive last year’s magic and take a full tour of Hal-Con 2024 in The That One Time ... We Toured Hal-Con with Tanner Zipchen here!