Digital buyer journeys
What digital buyer journeys means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Event overview
Overview
Twin Cities Con is set to take place from November 20-22, 2026 at the Minneapolis Convention Center. This exciting comic convention will showcase a wide range of guests from the comic and entertainment industry, engaging panels, and fun activities for attendees of all ages.
Produced by Nerd Street Events, the convention aims to create an inclusive environment for fans to celebrate their favorite franchises and connect with fellow enthusiasts. Twin Cities Con takes place in Minneapolis, USA.
TL;DR
- 1Dates and Venue: Twin Cities Con runs from November 20-22, 2026 at the Minneapolis Convention Center.
- 2Scale and Focus: This comic convention features a diverse lineup of guests, panels, and activities for fans of all ages.
- 3Organiser: The event is produced by Nerd Street Events, known for hosting various comic conventions.
- 4Buyer Authority: Attendees include comic book fans, cosplayers, and families looking for entertainment.
- 5Entry / Access: Tickets are available now, with various options including VIP passes and discounts for kids.
Why visit
Twin Cities Con gives Upper Midwest pop-culture fans a three-day weekend to meet comic creators and media guests in person, shop Artist Alley and dealer tables, and join cosplay meetups and fandom panels. Attendees include comic book fans, cosplayers, and families looking for entertainment.
Why exhibit
Exhibitors will gain access to a diverse audience of comic enthusiasts, providing a platform to showcase their products and services. The convention offers excellent visibility and networking opportunities within the comic and entertainment industry. Meet qualified buyers and partners including Comic book publishers showcasing new titles, Merchandise vendors selling collectibles, Artists offering prints and commissions. Position your offer across comic books and graphic.
Attendees, exhibitors & solutions
Who this event is for
Visitor profile
Typical attendee groups you can expect to meet.
Comic book fans looking for the latest releases
Cosplayers eager to showcase their costumes
Families seeking fun activities for children
Collectors searching for unique merchandise
Fans of anime and pop culture
Individuals interested in attending panels and workshops
Exhibitor profile
Main supplier and exhibitor segments present at the show.
Comic book publishers showcasing new titles
Merchandise vendors selling collectibles
Artists offering prints and commissions
Cosplay costume makers and suppliers
Gaming companies promoting new releases
Food vendors catering to event attendees
Product categories
Key solution areas showcased across the event.
Comic books and graphic novels
Cosplay costumes and accessories
Collectibles and memorabilia
Art prints and original artwork
Board games and tabletop games
Merchandise from popular franchises
Location & Facilities
Venue
Minneapolis Convention Center
1301 2nd Ave S, Minneapolis, MN 55403
Facilities
Parking
Minneapolis Convention Center in Minneapolis typically provides on-site or adjacent visitor parking during major trade fairs; confirm daily rates, payment methods and hall access on the organiser or venue website before travel.
Food options
On-site catering
On-site diningParking: Minneapolis Convention Center in Minneapolis typically provides on-site or adjacent visitor parking during major trade fairs; confirm daily rates, payment methods and hall access on the organiser or venue website before travel.
Gate: Follow organiser signage to the main visitor entrance at Minneapolis Convention Center for badge collection; allow extra time for security screening during peak morning arrival.
Attend
Entry & tickets
Event days & opening times
DayOpening hours
: Exhibit Hall Hours: Friday12:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Saturday10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Sunday10:00 AM – 5:00 PM
General admission
Professional Badge
65General admission
Kids Ticket (ages 2-13)
10
Who runs the show
Organisers
Nerd Street Events
Intelligence
Market context
Key market insights, trends, news and related events to help you understand the bigger picture.
Minneapolis, USA
Why it matters
On 2026-11-20 to 2026-11-22, Twin Cities Con in Minneapolis covering Comic books and graphic novels, Cosplay costumes and accessories, Collectibles and memorabilia, Art prints and original gives trade buyers a single calendar window to compare suppliers, validate specs on the stand, and book follow-ups before the next buying cycle - especially when your roadmap matches the published exhibitor profile.
Industry trends
Key trends shaping this market and its wider industry.
Sustainability in procurement
What sustainability in procurement means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Automation and labour efficiency
What automation and labour efficiency means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Regional supply-chain resilience
What regional supply-chain resilience means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Hybrid engagement models
What hybrid engagement models means for buyers and exhibitors in this sector.
Plan your trip
Travel & logistics
Local currency · USD
Arrival airports
Choose from the following airports, with convenient access to the event and venue.
Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport
MSP is the primary commercial airport for the Twin Cities. Allow extra time in winter weather
TBA
to venue
Approx. 15-25 minutes by car depending on traffic
by car
Hotel tiers
A range of accommodation options near the venue and across key areas.
Fairfield by Marriott Inn & Suites Minneapolis Downtown
midscale
Downtown Minneapolis3.9
3-star downtown option with parking and fitness center, listed among hotels near Minneapolis Convention Center.
Moxy Minneapolis Uptown
budget
Uptown Minneapolis4.1
2-star property with free cancellation and pet-friendly rooms.
Sheraton Minneapolis West Hotel
upscale
Minnetonka / west Minneapolis4.0
4-star hotel with hot tub and pool; west-side location requires a drive to the convention center.
InterContinental Minneapolis - St. Paul Airport
upscale
Minneapolis-Saint Paul Airport4.3
Airport hotel with free cancellation and pet-friendly rooms, suited to early departures.
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Mall of America - MSP Airport by IHG
midscale
Bloomington / Mall of America4.4
Airport-area property with free cancellation and hot tub.
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Minneapolis - West End by IHG
midscale
West End, St. Louis Park4.3
Suburban west-metro property with free cancellation and hot tub.
Local transport
Get around the city with these convenient transport options.
Light rail (METRO Blue Line)
Estimated costUSD 2.50-6 single metro/light-rail journey (contactless)
Best forMSP airport to downtown Minneapolis
Metro Transit light rail connects the airport with downtown Minneapolis; check current schedules.
Bus
Estimated costUSD 2.50-6 single metro/light-rail journey (contactless)
Best forDowntown Minneapolis local routes
Metro Transit buses serve the convention center district.
Taxi / rideshare
Estimated costUSD 35–75 taxi or rideshare to the venue district
Best forMSP airport or downtown hotels to Minneapolis Convention Center
Rideshare pickup points are signposted at both airport terminals.
Car / parking ramp
Estimated costUSD 18-35 daily venue parking
Best forDowntown Minneapolis event parking
The venue has adjacent ramps including the 3rd Avenue Parking Ramp; the downtown skyway network links many hotels.
taxi
Estimated costApprox. USD taxi/rideshare from MSP to venue (estimate; confirm before travel)
Best forMinneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport (MSP) to Minneapolis Convention Center
Approx. 15-25 minutes by car depending on traffic; MSP is the primary commercial airport for the Twin Cities. Allow extra time in winter weather.
Weather
Late November in Minneapolis is cold, with daytime temperatures typically hovering near freezing and a real chance of snow; pack a heavy coat, layers, gloves and waterproof boots for walking between downtown hotels and the convention center.
Plan for the climate
Check temperatures and pack accordingly
Venue connectivity
Confirm mobile roaming or a local SIM for business visitors to the United States.
Ride-hailing
Taxis
Public transit
Car rentals
Cultural notes
Useful information to help you have a smooth and respectful visit.
Cosplay photo etiquette
Ask before photographing cosplayers, respect personal space, and follow venue rules on props and prop weapons. A quick yes-or-no before a photo is standard at comic conventions.
Autograph and photo-op queues
Popular guests draw long lines; buy sessions in advance when possible and arrive early for your slot. Some creators still prefer cash at their tables, so carry small bills.
Tipping in Minneapolis
Tip 15-20 percent at table-service restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars, and 15-20 percent for taxi or rideshare drivers. Many downtown Minneapolis businesses are cashless.
Late November weather
Expect cold days near freezing, a real chance of snow, and wind chill. Bring a heavy coat, gloves, a hat, and waterproof boots; use the skyway system to walk between hotels and the convention center.
Skyway and downtown navigation
Minneapolis has an extensive skyway network linking hotels, restaurants, and the convention center. Check skyway hours because some segments close at night or on weekends.
Practical guides
Visitor & Exhibitor Essentials
Everything needed to arrive prepared, navigate the event, and make the visit productive.
Flights
Destination: MSP
Compare flights to the nearest international gateway serving Minneapolis; confirm ground transport on the organiser site.
Visa
Foreign nationals travelling to the United States for temporary business generally require a B-1 visitor visa unless they qualify for entry under the Visa Waiver Program.
Applications use Form DS-160; a passport valid for travel to the United States is required. Business activities of a commercial or professional nature are covered by the B-1 category. Check eligibility for the Visa Waiver Program before applying.
OfficialTransport
Get to the venue and around the city with these options.
Airport → venue: Primary gateways: Minneapolis-Saint Paul International Airport (MSP): Approx. 15-25 minutes by car depending on traffic. Allow road or rail time to Minneapolis Convention Center; on-site parking is usually available at major exhibition venues.
Hotel → venue: Precinct hotels near Minneapolis Convention Center: Downtown Minneapolis: Fairfield by Marriott Inn & Suites Minneapolis Downtown; Uptown Minneapolis: Moxy Minneapolis Uptown; Minnetonka / west Minneapolis: Sheraton Minneapolis West Hotel.
Ride-hail: Ride-hailing apps are commonly used in Minneapolis; confirm local availability before travel.
Public transit: METRO Blue Line light rail links MSP airport with downtown Minneapolis, and Metro Transit buses serve the convention center district; the downtown skyway system connects many hotels on foot.
Parking: On-site parking is available at Minneapolis Convention Center; confirm daily rates and hall access on the organiser or venue site.
Weather
Plan and pack for the event climate.
Month: November 2026
Temperature: Typically around -4 C to 4 C (mid-20s to low 40s F)
Seasonality: Late autumn: cold and often overcast, with rain or snow possible; daylight is short.
Packing: Bring a warm winter coat, thermal layers, gloves, a hat and waterproof boots; indoor halls are heated, so dress in removable layers.
Plan your trip
Planning
Best day to visit: Day 2 (mid-show)
Mid-show days at Twin Cities Con usually combine full exhibitor attendance with scheduled B2B meetings, before early pack-down on the final day.
T-1
Lock in tickets and guest add-ons
T-2
Book a refundable downtown hotel
T-3
Shortlist guests and build a signing plan
T-4
Map panels, cosplay meetups, and Artist Alley
T-5
Plan a warm cosplay or outfit
T-6
Arrange airport and venue transport
T-7
Pack a practical day bag
T-8
Review family and accessibility needs
T-9
Confirm badge pickup hours
T-10
Set a show-floor budget
Sample visitor itinerary
Route-optimised day
Day 1 · morning
Registration and hall orientation at Minneapolis Convention Center
Day 2 · core sessions
Supplier meetings and product demos
Day 3 · wrap-up
Final negotiations and follow-up
Networking spots
2Twin Cities Con registration concourse
Minneapolis Convention Center
Central meeting point before and between hall appointments during show days.
Organiser B2B lounge (if offered)
Minneapolis Convention Center
Hosted matchmaking and buyer programmes when published by the organiser.
Budget
Costs & budget
Build your working budget
Adjust the inputs below to create a directional event budget.
Estimated budget
Live estimate
- Hotel × 2 nights$230.00
- Per diem × 2$150.00
Estimated total$380.00
This is a directional estimate. Please verify live rates before booking.
Cost reference
Official cost items and estimated ranges for exhibitors.
visitor_ticket
visitor · General admission
USD 65 / per person
organiser_published
| Item | For | Tier | Estimated range | Status | As of |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| visitor_ticket | visitor | General admission | USD 65 / per person | organiser_published |
Decision
Visit, exhibit, or skip?
Should you go?
Use this quick check to decide whether Twin Cities Con fits your visit, exhibit or skip plan.
QUESTION 1 OF 6
For Twin Cities Con, what is your primary role on the show floor?
Decision matrix
Compare participation options side by side to choose the best fit for your objectives.
visit
Your category focus and target suppliers align with the official exhibitor profile.
Best for
Buyers, engineers, and delegates sourcing Comic books and graphic novels and Cosplay costumes and accessories solutions and benchmarking suppliers at Twin Cities Con in Minneapolis.
Min. budget
$565.00
Timeline
4-8 weeks before opening day for registration, hotels, and travel.
Risks
Session times and ticket tiers may change - confirm the official agenda before booking.
exhibit
You have a defined lead-generation or distributor recruitment goal for this market.
Best for
Brands and manufacturers launching Comic books and graphic novels and Cosplay costumes and accessories products who need qualified meetings with the event's trade audience.
Min. budget
$2,542.00
Timeline
3-6 months for stand booking, freight, staffing, and pre-show marketing.
Risks
Booth pricing and corner premiums vary by hall - confirm with the organiser sales team.
skip
Audience, geography, or commercial goals do not justify travel and stand costs this cycle.
Best for
Teams with weak category fit, budget constraints, or overlapping commitments during the Minneapolis show week.
Timeline
N/A
Risks
Skipping may mean missing buyer meetings if competitors exhibit or attend the same week.
Gallery
Photos
FAQs & glossary
Answers
Frequently asked
Glossary
- Photo Op
- A ticketed photo session with a listed guest; up to 4 individuals are allowed per ticket unless the talent sales page states otherwise.
- Cosplay
- Costumed fan performance tied to comics and pop culture; the show runs a costume contest with published rules.
- Guest
- A celebrity or creator appearing for panels, autographs and photo ops; the 2026 roster is published on twincitiescon.com.
- Day Pass
- Single-day admission to the show floor and general programming.
- VIP Pass
- Premium ticket tier sold alongside day and weekend passes.
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Also known as
Alternate names and search phrases for this event.
- Comic Convention 2026
- Twin Cities Con 2026
- Minneapolis Convention Center
- Twin Cities Con Minneapolis 2026
- Minneapolis USA
- Convention Minneapolis 2026
- Convention Comic Convention Minneapolis
- Comic books and graphic novels
Digital business cards for the show floor
Display a free company card at your booth, or share your professional card on the show floor.