Fantasy
At Fan Fusion, the world of fantasy comes to life through spellbinding events, thrilling battles, and legendary gatherings that transport you to lands unknown. Whether you dream of wielding a sword like a warrior, casting spells like a mage, or unraveling ancient prophecies, your adventure begins here!
Explore Fantastic Worlds!
Explore Fantastic Worlds!
Dunk'd On: A Knight of the Seven Kingdoms and the Future of A Song of Ice and Fire (18+)
The Hedge Knight was adapted into a series on HBO this year, and the adventures of Dunk and Egg showed us a side of Westeros we haven't seen yet... an actual noble knight standing up for the common man against tyrants. We'll recap Season One and look ahead to what Season Two might focus on.
Saturday
Toxicology of Eating Mythological Creatures
Have you ever wondered what would happen if you dined on a dragon or snacked on a sphinx? The whimsical world of mythological creatures not only stirs our imagination but also tickles the curious mind about their effects on our health. In this captivating exploration, we delve into the toxicology of eating mythological creatures—a subject that blends fantasy with a dash of science. Discover which creatures might be a delicacy and which could be downright dangerous.
Saturday
The Good, the Bad, and the Bruckheimer: Best Swordfights in Film and TV
Join our panel of combat experts and enthusiasts to break down some of the best duels and hand-to-hand sword battles in fantasy film, where we'll cover your favorites as well as recommend some projects you may never have heard of... but wow do they nail the combat!
Friday
A Carnival of Chaos - The Mighty Nein Animated Series
Critical Role presents the Mighty Nein! This fan panel will be in-depth discussion about the success of the series, how it differs from the campaign, how they fleshed out the villains, which voice actors we're dying for, and what's coming in future seasons.
Friday
Dungeons and Dragons Intro Panel: Die For Me Streaming
Step into the world of Die For Me: Meet the cast, hear how the campaign was built, and get a peek behind the dice. This intro panel includes Dungeons and Dragons trivia, audience questions, and plenty of laughs. Whether you're a longtime player or brand new, this is fantasy, friendship, and chaos at its best.
Saturday
Lore on Tap (18+)
Welcome to Lore on Tap: Tavern Games, a late-night geek game show where fandom chaos meets tavern energy. Hosts Zach and Hunter bring the vibe of a rowdy fantasy pub to the convention floor with a rapid-fire series of audience games, contestant challenges, and “commercial interruptions” from totally fake sponsors.
Saturday
Mando Movie Review: The Mandalorian and Grogu
Join the Arizona Mando Mercs of Shonare Vhekadla Clan as they talk about the latest Star Wars movie: "The Mandalorian and Grogu." We'll discuss the story, theories about where the story will go next, and highlight the best easter eggs and references.
Friday
Outlander: Blood of My Blood Panel
Ever wish you could touch a magical stone and wake up somewhere dramatically more romantic? Same, Claire. SAME. Whether you've been riding with the Frasers since 2014 or just discovered that Scottish Highlanders and time travel are an extremely effective combination, welcome. You belong here.
Sunday
Amtgard Crafting Experience: Make Your Own Leather Keychain, Chainmail , or Magic Picture
Come make an item with your local Arizona Amtgard chapters. Amtgard is a LARP society of crafters making their own clothes, embroidery, foam weapons, and more. Learn about the local Amtgard scene while getting to craft. Materials will be provided.
Saturday
Good Omens - The Ineffable Conclusion
Step into the ineffable world of angels, demons, and everything delightfully in between. We'll be here to discuss the conclusion of Good Omens. We will be discussing how all 3 seasons tie together, popular fan theories, behind-the-scenes stories, and thoughts and reactions to our ineffable couple. Now with more Terry Pratchett!
Friday
War of the Romances DRAGON AGE EDITION
Calling all Wardens, Champions, Inquisitors, and Rooks! BioWare is world renowned for writing some of the best romances in fantasy gaming… now it’s up to you to settle the 17 year old debate BRACKET STYLE. Help us decide once and for all who is the greatest romance option in Thedas!
Saturday
Wait... This was for Children?! Disney Edition (18+)
Ever had yourself a real good Lazy Day, full of nostalgia-binging some of your favorite Disney shows and movies from your childhood and thought, “Wait… THIS WAS FOR CHILDREN?!” Well… we have! And we’ve thought entirely TOO MUCH about it. Join us as we over-analyze the past!
Saturday
The Shannara Legacy: A Passing of the Druid’s Staff
Join us for a historic moment at Phoenix Fan Fusion as we bring together the legendary Terry Brooks and the formidable Delilah S. Dawson. For decades, Terry Brooks has defined the landscape of modern fantasy; now, a new chapter begins as Delilah prepares to carry the mantle of the Shannara universe forward. We’ll discuss the art of world-building, the weight of a legacy, and what happens when one master storyteller entrusts their life’s work to another. Don’t miss this rare, heartfelt conversation between the architect of a world and its new guardian.
Saturday
Introduction to Longsword: From Knave to Knight
Calling all fighters, knights, and fans of medieval combat. Tired of tawdry peasants telling you "you don't know the first thing about the blade"? Enjoy a free class taught by the Phoenix Society of Historical Swordsmanship and learn the first thing about sword fighting!
Friday
The Medieval Era and Hollywood: Fact vs. Fiction
Since the advent of film, movies and TV shows have popularized depictions of the medieval era around the world. From tales of knights and Vikings, to the crusades, to the far east, Hollywood has covered them all. But how accurate are these depictions of medieval horses, garb, and weapons? Come explore Fact vs. Fiction with medieval researchers and reenactors from the Society for Creative Anachronism (SCA).
Friday
We Sing a Song of Ice and Fire- All Things GRRM (18+)
Hey, are you waiting for George R.R. Martin to write the Winds of Winter? US TOO! How about we pass the time talking about the upcoming season of House of the Dragon, as well as all the lore that he HAS written about the history of Westeros.
Sunday
Amtgard Learn to Play and Battlegame: Safe Foam Sword Fighting LARP
Learn to play Amtgard, a LARP and boffer combat society focused on the Sword and Sorcery, Medieval and Ancient genres. Amtgard uses safe, foam-padded swords. We will be teaching the rules and running a battle game where participants can fight!
Friday + Saturday
The Murder Mystery Players of Casa Grande
The Murder Mystery Players of Casa Grande are back for another year with an original murder mystery, Clue Who? This interactive comedy is packed with suspicious characters, sharp humor, and unexpected twists. Question the suspects, follow the clues, compete for prizes, and we'll see you there and can you figure out whodunit?
Daily
Masters of the Universe: Back By the Power of Grayskull
By the power of Grayskull! We're not just talking the new film, we're going to revisit legendary clashes between He-Man and Skeletor, spotlight fan-favorite heroes and villains, explore the toys, and celebrate the enduring magic of Eternia.
Saturday
Has Your Enemy Studied Agrippa? Fencing Masters vs. The Princess Bride
Learn about the historic fencing masters referenced in the iconic Princess Bride duel. Rapier fighters of the Kingdom of Atenveldt (SCA) will simulate the teaching manuals with prop swords and explain the strengths and weaknesses of each school of fencing.
Friday
The Legend of Zelda 40th Anniversary Panel
For four decades, there have been few intellectual properties with as revered a mythos as the Legend of Zelda. We're going to run through forty years of titles and the timeless saga of a mute kid named Link coming to the aid of a nigh-goddess level sorcerer-princess named Zelda.
Friday
Five Night's at Freddy's 2 Film Frenzy
Welcome to Freddy Fazbear’s Pizzeria. We will explore the world of Scott Cawthon as we talk about the movie sequel, how it tied into the games and the theories that have come out of this world. So grab a slice of pizza and a flashlight and conserve your power, lest you become the next featured entertainer...
Friday
Supernatural Trivia - Mooses and Squirrels and Teddy Bears! Oh My!
How many times did Dean die at the Mystery Spot? How did Cas lose his virginity? Who “truly loves” the babysitter? If you could answer all these questions and have absolutely no shame, join us for Kahoot style Supernatural trivia.
Saturday
The Professors Present: Swish and Flick!
Whether you’re in your first year at Hogwarts or prepping for your O.W.L.s, come and join the Professors as they dive into the history, lexicon, wand movements and other lore surrounding the use of spells in the wizarding world. Make sure to bring your wand for this interactive lesson.
Friday
Dresden Files: Accorded Neutral Territory for a Discussion
Welcome to the MacAnally’s of Fan Fusion! Whether you’re a Knight, a Wizard, or just a vanilla mortal, pull up a stool for an interactive deep dive into the latest books and our wildest fan theories. No hexing allowed. We’re strictly following the Unseelie Accords here. Bring your favorite hat (or lack thereof) and join the conversation! Masking encouraged, glamours prohibited.
Saturday
The Winchester Files: Ghost Hunting After Hours
Bring your salt and silver for a deep dive into all 15 seasons of Supernatural, where demon hunting, angel drama, and brotherly loyalty collide. From the absurd brilliance of the Ghostfacers to the meta breaking magic of the musical episode, revisit the show’s most iconic moments. Uncover the secrets behind the Winchesters’ anti-possession tattoos, their expert hunting techniques, and what it really takes to survive in a world full of monsters.
Friday
Witch Hat Atelier (And You Thought Your Mom Was Frigid)
The world is brimming with magic. The long awaited Anime Adaptation for the manga hit Witch Hat Atelier has finally released. Headed by BUG FILMS, this anime breaths fresh life into the pages of Kamome Shirahama. We'll compare the differences between the show and comic, appreciate the magical animation, and nerd out about our favorite characters as we join Coco, Agott, Qifrey, and more on their journey! (Spoiler free)
Saturday
Twisted Wonderland Extravaganza
IS THAT AN ANIME!? It is now! The long awaited game has finally had its first season and we are excited to welcome the growing fandom with our game themed panel! Come by to play Twisted Games and win Twisted prizes. Fall down the rabbit hole and have a blast with the Night Raven students!
Sunday
Shadow and Bone - The Grishaverse De-Mystified
Do you love the Grishaverse? We will deconstruct the magic of Leigh Bardugo’s worlds from Keftas to monsters of legend and impenetrable fortresses! Nothing is too niche of a topic in this lore deep dive covering both the books and screen adaptations
Saturday
Longsword for Witchers
Step into the role of a monster hunter and take up the sword! This beginner-friendly hands-on workshop introduces you to the art of the longsword through real historical techniques displaying the kind of fast, fluid combat you’d expect from a Witcher on the Path. Learn how to strike, parry, and move with purpose. All equipment is provided, and experienced Witchers will guide you every step of the way. Steel yourself. The Path awaits.
Sunday
The Professors Present: Hogwarts, more Like Snogwarts! (18+)
The Professors are back with their critically “acclaimed” panel on the 18+ side of Hogwarts. They’re ready once again to laugh, cry, and pursue the debauchery of the Diagon Alley Red Light District as they discuss slightly risqué topic and comical insights of the Wizarding World!
Friday
Meet The Murder Mystery Players of Casa Grande: Panel and Trivia
Meet the Murder Mystery Players of Casa Grande up close. Join founder Pamela Karpelenia and the cast for a lively panel, behind-the-scenes stories, audience questions, murder mystery trivia, and prizes. Learn how the shows come together, meet the suspects, and test your detective skills before the crime even begins. Fun, interactive, and full of surprises.
Saturday
Vampire Slayer Training
The Hellmouth isn’t going to guard itself! Step up and take your place among the chosen. In this beginner-friendly workshop hosted by Mordhau Historical Combat, you’ll train like a true Slayer facing down vampires, demons, and the forces of darkness. Under the guidance of seasoned Watchers, you’ll learn the art of the dagger designed to strike straight through the heart of any vampire. No experience? No problem! Destiny doesn’t wait for perfect resumes. All equipment is provided. Just bring your courage and your instincts. Stakes are high. Literally.
Saturday
"Oops, All Vampires!" Revue (18+)
Have you ever wondered what would happen if a cavalcade of vampire icons converged upon the same room? It will be a show for the ages. Join us for an 18+ event hosted by none other than Dracula himself and everyone’s favorite vampiric disaster, Lestat de Lioncourt. This cabaret features a collision of vampire legends, where ancient monsters rub elbows with modern heartthrobs all mashed together into one glittering, blood-soaked fanfic dream. There will be musical numbers, theatrical excess, filthy humor, and, of course, a room full of vampires who absolutely refuse to behave themselves. From classic horror to prestige TV to sparkling teen angst and children’s television gone delightfully wrong, no corner of the vampire canon is safe, or sacred. The night is young, and someone might be getting metaphorically staked. Come thirsty and dressed in your vampiric finest.
Saturday
The Rings of Power: Before the One that Ruled Them
Galadriel, Elrond, Sauron, Gil-Galad...The Rings of Power has given us a new interpretation of some fan-favorite characters from J.R.R. Tolkien's works and introduced many more that have not been depicted on-screen. Let's explore what we loved, what we hope to see in future seasons, and how the show can connect to Tolkien's larger Legendarium.
