Horror fans have a new date to circle on the calendar. This fall, the long-running celebration of scary movies returns to Pennsylvania for another weekend of scares, autographs, and nonstop nostalgia. Below is a complete breakdown of the dates, location, tickets, guests, and schedule, so you can plan your visit with confidence.
When and Where the Convention Takes Place
The event runs from November 20 to November 22, 2026. It takes place at the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center in Oaks, Pennsylvania. This venue has hosted the fall edition of the show before, so returning fans will find a familiar layout with plenty of room for vendors, photo booths, and autograph tables.
Oaks sits just outside Philadelphia, which makes the venue easy to reach for visitors from New Jersey, Delaware, and New York. Additionally, several hotels near the expo center offer discounted rates for attendees. Booking early is wise, since rooms tend to fill quickly once the guest list is announced.
Quick Facts at a Glance
The table below sums up the essential details for anyone short on time.
| Detail | Information |
| Dates | November 20 to 22, 2026 |
| Location | Greater Philadelphia Expo Center, Oaks, PA |
| Event type | Horror film and memorabilia convention |
| Days | Friday, Saturday, Sunday |
| Organizer | Dave Hagan Enterprises |
| Ticket sales | Online through the official convention website |
A Brief History of the Event
This gathering began in 2003 and has grown into one of the most respected horror conventions in the country. It started as a small idea between a father and son who shared a love of scary films. Over time, the show expanded into a full weekend event that rotates between three locations each year: Cherry Hill, New Jersey; Baltimore, Maryland; and Oaks, Pennsylvania. The November stop in Oaks closes out the yearly schedule, so it often features a mix of returning favorites and a few fresh faces.
Because the convention has run for over two decades, longtime fans trust it as a reliable place to meet actors from classic horror franchises. Newcomers, meanwhile, appreciate how welcoming the atmosphere feels, even for first-time convention goers.
Who Might Attend: Guests and Panels
Guest lists for this edition had not been fully revealed at the time of writing. However, past fall shows in Oaks have featured actors connected to well-known franchises such as slasher films, supernatural thrillers, and cult classics. Guests typically sign autographs, pose for photo ops, and join panel discussions where they share stories from behind the scenes.
Because guest schedules can shift, it helps to check the official convention website close to the event. Some stars only attend for part of the weekend, so confirming exact appearance times prevents disappointment. It is also worth noting that general admission tickets grant entry to the show floor, not automatic access to any specific guest.
While waiting for the full lineup, fans can expect the same format that has defined the show for years: a mix of film legends, rising genre actors, and behind-the-scenes talent such as makeup artists and directors.
Ticket Options and Pricing
Tickets go on sale through the official convention checkout page, and several tiers are usually offered. General admission covers entry to the dealer room, panels, and general convention activities. VIP packages typically include early entry, exclusive merchandise, and priority access to popular guests.
Photo ops and autographs are usually sold separately from general admission. This setup lets attendees choose exactly which guests they want to meet, rather than paying a flat fee that assumes interest in every guest. Because popular actors sell out quickly, purchasing autograph and photo vouchers in advance is strongly recommended.
Refunds are limited. If a guest cancels, only photo op purchases tied to that guest are refunded. Convention tickets themselves are non-refundable, since admission covers the entire weekend rather than any single appearance.
Ticket Types Overview
| Ticket Type | What It Includes |
| General Admission | Entry to the show floor, dealer room, and panels |
| VIP Package | Early access plus exclusive perks |
| Autograph Voucher | Guaranteed signature from a chosen guest |
| Photo Op | Scheduled photo session with a chosen guest |
Daily Schedule and Show Hours
The convention runs across three days, and each day follows a similar rhythm. Friday afternoon kicks things off with early access for VIP ticket holders, followed by general admission entry in the evening. Saturday is the busiest day, packed with panels, vendor shopping, and long autograph lines. Sunday tends to be calmer, giving fans one more chance to grab merchandise or catch a guest they missed earlier.
Typical show hours look like this, though times can vary slightly each year:
- Friday: afternoon through evening, with autographs continuing into the night
- Saturday: morning through early evening, the longest and most active day
- Sunday: morning through late afternoon, wrapping up the weekend
Because exact hours are confirmed closer to the event, checking the schedule page before arrival ensures you do not miss any sessions.
What to Expect on the Show Floor
The dealer room is one of the biggest draws. Vendors sell vintage movie posters, action figures, prop replicas, and rare collectibles that are hard to find anywhere else. Many booths also carry independent horror films, comic books, and handmade artwork from local creators.
Photo op areas recreate iconic scenes from horror films, giving fans a chance to pose alongside props and backdrops. Meanwhile, panel rooms host discussions where actors and filmmakers answer audience questions and share stories from their careers. There is also a dedicated store selling official convention merchandise, including the event’s own horror magazine.
Cosplay is common throughout the weekend, and many attendees dress as their favorite horror icons. However, real weapons are not permitted, even as costume props, so replica items should be clearly fake and checked at the entrance if needed.
Tips for First-Time Attendees
Planning ahead makes the weekend much smoother. Consider the following before you go:
- Buy tickets and photo op vouchers early, since popular guests sell out fast
- Book a hotel near the expo center as soon as your dates are confirmed
- Bring cash, since some smaller vendors may not accept cards
- Arrive early on Saturday, which is typically the busiest day
- Check the guest list and appearance times right before the event, since schedules can change
Parking is usually free at the expo center, which is a welcome bonus compared to many other conventions held in downtown venues. Additionally, wearing comfortable shoes is a smart move, since the show floor covers a large amount of space.
Why This Convention Stands Out
Unlike massive multi-genre expos that cover comics, gaming, and film all at once, this show stays focused entirely on horror. That focus creates a tighter, more passionate community. Fans who attend often say the smaller scale makes it easier to actually talk with guests, rather than rushing through a crowded line.
Therefore, whether you are a lifelong horror fan or simply curious about the genre, the Oaks stop offers a manageable, welcoming environment to explore classic films, meet familiar faces, and shop for one-of-a-kind memorabilia.
Conclusion
The November gathering in Oaks, Pennsylvania offers three full days of horror-themed fun from November 20 through 22, 2026. Attendees can look forward to a packed dealer room, photo ops, guest panels, and the relaxed community feel that has defined this convention since 2003. While the complete guest list was still being finalized at the time of writing, past years suggest a strong lineup of familiar horror faces is likely. Buying tickets early, booking nearby hotels, and checking the schedule close to the event will help you make the most of the weekend. For horror fans in the Philadelphia area, this remains one of the most reliable and enjoyable stops on the yearly convention calendar.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the exact dates for this event?
The show runs from Friday, November 20 through Sunday, November 22, 2026.
Where is the convention held?
It takes place at the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center in Oaks, Pennsylvania.
How do I buy tickets?
Tickets are sold online through the official convention website, with general admission, VIP, autograph, and photo op options available separately.
Will there be a guest list announced closer to the date?
Yes. Guests are typically announced in the months leading up to the show, and it is best to check the official site for updates before purchasing autograph or photo vouchers.
Is parking available at the venue?
Yes, free parking is typically offered at the Greater Philadelphia Expo Center for attendees.
