FanCon 2025 fills the library with cosplay, fandom and activities for all ages

Two boys in cosplay. One Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles Cosplay and the other in a Mario from Super Mario Brothers Cosplay. They stand in front of an AHML FanCon Step-and-repeat.

On Sunday, July 27, the Arlington Heights Memorial Library welcomed more than 900 guests of all ages to its ninth annual FanCon, a celebration of comics and pop culture. 
 
This year’s event had something for everyone, offering a wide range of activities and experiences. Highlights included a performance by Raks Geek, whose Geeky Circus Arts and Acrobatics show combined contortion, belly dancing and cosplay. Jedi Trainer Andrew Trygstad also brought his expertise to the event, guiding aspiring Padawans through the basics of lightsaber skills and mastering the Force. 

Attendees explored every corner of the library by solving hidden clues and testing their dragon knowledge for a chance to win prizes. As they explored, they discovered hands-on activities like crafting Mythical Creature Puppets in the Lindsey Room and creating Squishy Cubes in the Hub. Up on the second floor, attendees lined up for a photo op with Darth Vader and Stormtroopers from the 501st Legion. 

Meanwhile, Artists' Alley showcased 10 artists and vendors. Cosplayers ranged from Disney princesses and the characters of Gravity Falls to Avengers, celebrating the vibrant pop culture embraced by the Arlington Heights community. 

Click here to view more photos on the library's Facebook page.