Calling all Transformers lovers and comic book buffs: BotCon is arriving in downtown Fort Wayne from June 27-30 at Grand Wayne Convention Center.

This year marks the 40th anniversary of Transformers as well as the 30th anniversary of the convention, which actually got its start in Fort Wayne. The convention returned in 2000 and 2002 before stopping by again this year.

Panels, classes, vendors, and more

Since 1994, BotCon has been held annually around the world, including three stops in Japan and twice in the United Kingdom.

“For the past 30 years, BotCon has been the convention fans have viewed as the standard for Transformers-related events,” their website says. “This is the show that introduced Transformers collectors of all ages exclusive figures, brand-related special guests, previews of upcoming products from Hasbro, casino nights, concerts, the Transformers Hall of Fame, and of course the world’s largest Transformers exhibition hall/dealer room.” 

This year’s BotCon promises to be even bigger and better. 

As with all events, the further they progress, they more they learn to cater more toward what he fans want. 

With that in mind, the convention kicks off at 9 a.m. on Thursday, June 27, with Shadow Tracker Custom Class. Along with the vendors, you’ll also get a branded merchandise sneak peak, the BotCon store, and 1980s branded merchandise, with a movie closing out the night at 9 p.m. 

The weekend continues with many more events and panels with opportunities to meet the voices of your favorite Transformers, including Gregg Berger (Power of the Primes, Robots in Disguise), Paul Eiding (Five Faces of Darkness), and Bumper Robinson (Animated), who will have available times to take pictures and sign autographs.

From Beast Wars: Transformers, the voice of Tarantulas, Alec Willows, will also be available for photos and autographs. 

Among illustrators and toy creators on hand will be Aaron C. Archer, Josh Perez, and Robby Musso.

Test your own talents

Are you into cosplaying? Of course you are! 

You have probably had your outfit planned for months, but do you have what it takes to win Saturday afternoon’s cosplay contest? 

Judging this contest is the one and only Nelly_The_Genie2.0 who will determine which cosplayers will be taking home the grand prize which is a $500 value pack. Other prizes will be awarded as well as toys and Agabucks. 

This year’s exclusive item is an Amk Mini Series Model Kit of the House of Ultra Magnus. This will be sold only at BotCon, so don’t miss out. 

Continuing the contest portions of BotCon will be an art contest. The categories are traditional photography, 2D art, 3D custom, and 3D diorama. 

BotCon explains these contests are to “recognize the amazing work fans can do,” and prizes will be top tier to show their appreciation for the fans that take the time to be a part of this event. 

Exclusive items

Over the weekend there will be multiple panels (such as voice actors) and even a Energon Bag Toss competition. 

There are events catered toward the hard-core collectors and even events for kids like drawing classes and Bumblebeast customization workshop. 

Along with all of the events, there will be exclusive merchandise and brand new original artwork from Josh Perez. This is special to BotCon since it’s the first time they are offering fans the chance to own something of his caliber of artwork. 

Tickets are available and range from premium passes ($229.95) to a weekend pass ($99.95). Can’t make it to all the days? Day passes are available from $24.95-$39.95, with additional costs for special events. Children 12 and younger get free admission.