In the heart of Indianapolis, where sports legacies and cultural icons converge, something uniquely electrifying has been brewing for over a decade: PopCon, a multifaceted celebration of fandom that defies categorization and thrives on one thing—passion. What began as a quirky idea over lunch has grown into a nationally recognized convention that invites people from every corner of pop culture to unite, explore, and indulge in what they love.
PopCon was co-founded in 2012 by Carl Doninger, an IU business school grad and lifelong Star Wars aficionado, and Kris Keyes, whose background in sports marketing has helped shape the event’s business strategy. The idea was born when Carl and Kris’s brother, Ryan, were exploring the possibility of a tabletop gaming convention. A chance meeting with comic book enthusiasts sparked the fusion of interests and from there, PopCon was born.
But PopCon didn’t stop at comics and games.
“We added in the sci-fi, fantasy, cosplay, music, and everything else that goes along with it,” Carl says. “It’s not just a comic con or a tabletop convention. It’s a true across-the-board pop culture event.”
What Exactly Is Pop Culture?
PopCon’s expansive programming reflects the modern reality: pop culture is everything, and everyone geeks out about something, it could be anime, drag shows, TikTok stars, professional wrestling, or competitive BattleBots.
“If you love Taylor Swift, that’s pop culture,” Carl explains. “If you binge-watch ‘Ghosts’ or obsess over Marvel lore, that’s pop culture. We focus on the geekier side, sure, but we honor it all.”
Fan-Driven, Community-Curated
PopCon’s biggest superpower? Listening to its fans. From celebrity guest suggestions to niche activities, attendees help shape the programming each year. This year, fans can look forward to appearances by the original voices of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, cast members from Pitch Perfect and X-Men ’97, and a heavy dose of anime stars.
“We try to build in groups so people aren’t just coming for one person or one panel,” Kris notes. “It’s about immersion—being able to follow your fandom across the whole weekend.” This creates a weekend that’s more than just a convention.
PopCon is a universe of experiences rolled into one weekend. It includes:
- An International Film Festival
- Live podcasts and podcast awards
- Laser tag, e-sports, and BattleBot-style competitions
- Magic performances from Vegas-caliber talent
- A K-pop and J-pop dance competition
- Workshops like leatherworking, improv, and dance
- The fashion-forward PopCon Fashion Show
- PerCon, a new feature which includes a mini convention just for cat lovers
- Medieval combat, pro wrestling, and drag performances
“Wear good shoes,” Kris advises first-timers, laughing. “But more importantly, step out of your comfort zone. That’s where the magic is.”
Cosplay Meets Couture
One of this year’s most anticipated additions is the PopCon Fashion Show, organized by a New York-based designer and featuring work from Indiana creators. What makes it special? Attendees can sign up to walk the runway themselves.
“This kind of inclusion and energy… this is what sets PopCon apart,” Carl says. “It’s not just about watching. It’s about participating.”
With over 150 volunteers (and hundreds more supporting vendors and event partners), PopCon has scaled thoughtfully. The secret, according to Carl and Kris, lies in bringing in passionate leaders who know their craft—from wrestling to workshops—and supporting them with strong operational know-how.
“There’s a thousand moving pieces,” says Kris. “And we’re still learning. But if someone brings the passion, we can help with the rest.”
The founders attribute the support of the City of Indianapolis, Visit Indy, and the Capital Improvement Board, as well as the importance of building relationships, as integral to their success.
For aspiring founders, PopCon’s story offers hard-earned insights. “It’s not about working less. It’s about taking massive risks, working around the clock, and not taking a paycheck for years,” says Kris candidly.
Carl adds: “It’s 95% planning and 5% execution. Network with others before jumping in. But if you believe in your vision and stay committed, it’s worth it.”
When reflecting on their motivation and what keeps them going despite challenges and the tireless hours, both of them seem a little emotional. “It’s the joy on people’s faces, the connections made, the fan moments that linger long after the weekend ends.”
“It’s all for those three days of happiness,” Carl says. “And the stories that come out of it. Some have made us cry, in the best way.”
Fan Moments For You
Carl recalls a surreal fan experience when he had the opportunity to spend a weekend playing tabletop games with Weird Science’s Ilan Mitchell-Smith, now a history professor and gaming enthusiast. Kris treasures the all-access magic lounge, where close-up illusions delight guests all weekend.
“There’s always something new to discover,” Carl says. “You can’t go ten feet at PopCon without stumbling into something cool.” For these founders it’s the personal connection and the fan experience that keeps them going.
Whether you’re a hardcore anime fan, a family looking for weekend fun, or a curious entrepreneur, PopCon offers a one-of-a-kind, community-powered experience. With dozens of fandoms, hundreds of events, and an open-arms approach to discovery, it’s not just a convention, this creative explosion has everything people love.
PopCon isn’t just for fans. It’s for dreamers. Builders. Doers. And those ready to explore. Get your tickets HERE. See you, June 27th – June 29th, 2025 at the Indiana Convention Center.
