Ocean City Comic Con Returns with Costumed Fandom Fun

Annual free event celebrates comics, cosplay, and community at the Music Pier.

Apr. 6, 2026 at 1:35am

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Ocean City, New Jersey's free, family-friendly comic convention, OC Con, is returning to the Music Pier on April 11-12, 2026. The event features a variety of activities including cosplay, races, artists, trivia, and more. Organizers expect around 1,300 to 1,400 attendees on Saturday and 800 to 1,000 on Sunday.

Why it matters

OC Con has become a beloved annual tradition that brings the local community together to celebrate comics, pop culture, and creative self-expression through costuming. The event provides a fun, inclusive space for fans of all ages to connect over shared interests.

The details

The convention will feature repeat artists, cosplay guests like Kevin D Cosplay who has portrayed characters like Batman and Captain America, as well as activities like an inflatable maze, face painting, Lego building, and a costume contest. Organizers say the event has grown in popularity over the years, with one memorable moment when a disappointed Star Wars fan found joy participating in an impromptu race with stormtroopers on the boardwalk.

  • OC Con will take place on April 11-12, 2026.
  • The costume contest is scheduled for 3 p.m. on Sunday, April 12.

The players

OC Con

An annual free, family-friendly comic convention held in Ocean City, New Jersey at the Music Pier.

Kevin D Cosplay

A cosplay guest who has portrayed characters like Batman, Captain America, Wolverine, and James Bond at major comic conventions.

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What they’re saying

“We have quite a few repeat artists coming, so that's a testament to our success.”

— Mahar, OC Con Organizer

“I remember one year, DisneyWorld canceled their Star Wars race and there was a woman who was so bummed about it. She was dressed in her Star Wars outfit and saw some stormtroopers at the Music Pier during our event, and they had their own little race on our boardwalk. She was so happy, and I thought it was pretty cool that our event helped out. It's a fun time for everyone.”

— Bruesehoff, OC Con Organizer

The takeaway

OC Con has become a cherished annual tradition that brings the local community together to celebrate comics, cosplay, and creative self-expression in a fun, inclusive environment. The event's growth in popularity over the years is a testament to its ability to foster a sense of shared fandom and community.