New York Comic Con welcomed over 250,000 attendees in 2025, marking a significant increase from the previous year's 200,000. The four-day event, held annually at the Javits Center, has become a premier gathering for fans of comic books, science fiction, and fantasy. The convention featured panels with authors, actors, and production companies, as well as autograph signings and meetups for fans to connect with one another.

For many attendees, the highlight of the event was the opportunity to showcase their creativity through cosplay. Black and Caribbean cosplayers, in particular, found a sense of community and belonging among the crowds. Antwone Coward, a cosplayer dressed as Freddy Krueger, expressed the importance of embracing one's inner child. "Even as we get older, there's an inner child that lies within us. They are us, you know. We're still them because the inner child lives in us," Coward said.

The convention's growth can be attributed to its increasing popularity among diverse groups. In recent years, the event has made a conscious effort to include more diverse panels and programming, which has helped to attract a broader range of attendees. Isaac Campbell, a photographer who covered the event, noted that the convention has become a platform for underrepresented communities to express themselves. "It's not just about comic books and superheroes; it's about people coming together to celebrate their love of geek culture," Campbell said.

New York Comic Con has a long history, dating back to 2006 when it was first held at the Jacob K. Javits Convention Center. Over the years, the event has grown in size and popularity, becoming one of the largest and most highly attended conventions in the United States. In 2024, the convention welcomed over 200,000 attendees, and this year's numbers have surpassed that mark.

The convention's growth has also led to increased recognition and respect for the cosplay community. Many attendees, including cosplayers, have praised the event for providing a platform for self-expression and creativity. As the convention continues to grow, it is likely that the cosplay community will remain a vital part of the event.

In the future, New York Comic Con is expected to continue its growth and expansion. The convention's organizers have announced plans to include more diverse programming and panels, as well as to increase the number of attendees from underrepresented communities. As the event continues to evolve, it is likely that the cosplay community will remain a key part of its identity and appeal.