One of the Texas Panhandle’s biggest pop culture events, Yellow City Comic Convention (YC3), will return to its 9th edition at the Amarillo Civic Center Complex from Friday, April 11th to Sunday.
After making Covid-related cancellations in 2020, YC3 is celebrating its 10th year and expects 4,000-5,000 participants to enjoy a weekend filled with celebrity guests, cosplay, games and community spirit.
“We’re looking forward to seeing you in the process of doing things,” said Brandon Biggers, co-owner of YC3. “Whether you love movies, sci-fi, fantasy, video games or not, we have something for you.”
The 2025 lineup includes an incredible roster of celebrities guests. Headlines for the event are Kyle Reese from “The Terminator,” Hicks from “The Alien,” and Michael Bean, best known for his appearance in “The Mandalorian.” Joining him is Jennifer Bran Bean, known for her roles in “It’s always sunny in Philadelphia” and “CSI: Investigating Crime Scenes.”
Voice acting fans will recognize Jet Black from “Cowboy Bebop” and Jet Black from William Salyers, who voiced Rigby and “Mass Effect 3” characters in “Regular Show.” Andy Merrill, the Black voice of “Space Ghost Coast to Coast” and “Black Show,” brings his comedy charm to the convention. Lee Majdubu, known for her role as Agent Stone in the “Sonic the Hedgehog” film, will also be a guest, appealing to new audiences. Finishing his guest list is Texas-based voice actor William Ofugub, known for his roles in “My Hero Academia” and “Dead Mount Death Play.”
“We aim high,” Biggers said. “We are looking for popular local guests, those fans who demand and we always want to bring in. We try to appeal to a wide range of interest, from anime like Michael Bean to big names.”
The Biggers also highlighted the inclusive atmosphere of the event. “We want YC3 to be a place where anyone can feel that they belong, whether you’re a longtime comic book fan, just discovering the world of pop culture. It’s about celebrating fandom in all ways.”
In addition to meeting the stars, YC3 participants look forward to a packed schedule of exciting activities. The convention spans three areas of the Civic Center. The North and South Exhibition Halls and Regency Rooms. The Cosplay contest, which Biggers described as “a huge participant,” presents creative outfits. Over 100 vendor booths include lightsabers, art, 3D printed collectibles, trading cards and more. Game lovers can take part in video game tournaments and new “Warhammer 40K” competitions. The sparkly combat pit also offers interactive fun, enthralled with popular lightsaber bender Saber, and returns after a successful 2024 appearance.
The outstanding attraction is Neko Neko Maid Café, which will be employed in 2025 with the theme of “Hoarder Vampire.” Usually, cafes offering traditional Japanese experiences showcase shows and escape rooms for an immersive, fun atmosphere. “It’s going to be a fun time,” Biggers said. “We’re really excited about it.”
YC3 is working on that motto: “For the community, by the community.” Volunteers, known as “YC3 Army of Sidekicks,” receive free admission, t-shirts, meals and behind the scenes access. The convention supports different nonprofit organizations each year, and YC3 2025 revenue benefits PFLAG, an LGBT advocacy organization founded by individual LGBT friends and family. PFLAG has approximately 400 chapters nationwide and represents over 350,000 members and supporters. The organization provides important support and advocacy to LGBTQ+ individuals and their families. “We’re passionate about supporting our community,” Biggers says.
For those who are unsure about attendance, Biggers highlighted the wide range of attractions of the event.
“I know people who thought the comic convention wasn’t for them, but I’m amazed at how much they enjoy it,” he said. “If you’ve loved something as a child, you’ll find something you love at YC3.”
Tickets are available at YellowCityCon.com and offer daily and weekend passes. The event will be held from 5pm to 9pm on Fridays, 10am to 9pm on Saturdays, and 11am to 6pm on Sundays. For the latest information on guest, schedule, or ticket pricing, visit the website or follow YC3 on social media, including its Facebook page, Yellow City Comics Convention.
Combining star power, interactive activities and community focus, YC3 2025 promises to be an unforgettable celebration of Amarillo’s fandom.
