THE FLOORS OF Adventist Health Arena pulsed with energy on Saturday as thousands poured into StocktonCon Summer 2025, a two-day celebration of pop culture, cosplay and community. With more than 200 exhibitors and artists, the annual event once again proved why it’s become a cornerstone for local fans and creators alike.
From superhero suits to hand-painted dice, the event offered something for everyone — whether you were there to meet celebrity guests, browse original artwork, or show off your latest cosplay build.
Homegrown fandom
Dylan Vaughn and his brother Ian Vaughn, both designers with Dice Envy, made the trip from Los Angeles to sell their custom tabletop game accessories. But for the duo, the return to Stockton is personal.
“We’re from here. Our parents still live just a few blocks away,” Dylan said. “It’s always great coming back and seeing familiar faces, vendors we’ve built relationships with, and even kids who recognize us from past events.”
He says StocktonCon isn’t just about commerce — it’s about community. “It fosters a place for people who love dice, comics or collectibles to come together. It’s not just a con, it’s a connection point.”
Creators in the crowd
For comic book artist and writer Tony Fleecs, StocktonCon isn’t just another stop on the con circuit — it’s a tradition. Fleecs, best known for Stray Dogs, Local Man, Uncanny Valley, and a decade-long run on My Little Pony, has been attending StocktonCon for over 10 years.
“This is like a friend show for us,” he said. “We come here once, sometimes twice a year. It’s got good vibes and a great hang — with fans and other creators we’ve known for years.”
Fleecs, who’s currently writing The Thing for Marvel Comics and working on his own ongoing series Feral, says the consistency of StocktonCon has helped him build lasting relationships with readers.
“Some folks first knew me from My Little Pony. Now they’re picking up my newest stuff. I’ll sell them Volume One, and when I come back, they’re ready for Volume Two. It’s the grassroots way to build a real audience — you keep showing up.”
Whether talking to longtime fans or aspiring artists looking for advice, Fleecs says being face-to-face matters more than any comic shop shelf.
“Being able to actually talk to someone about your book? That’s my favorite part.”
Superheroes with a mission
For Lee Williams, StocktonCon is more than cosplay. It’s a platform to inspire. Wearing a custom Black Panther suit of his own design, Williams is known locally for his superhero-themed motorcycle and Batman-decorated car. He also works as a youth minister.
“I want to teach the next generation to be a hero, not a zero,” Williams said. “The kids light up when they see the costume. That joy turns into motivation.”
With decades of appearances, Lee now has fans across generations. “Some of the kids I first met now have kids of their own. StocktonCon gives them something positive to look forward to — and a reminder that they can make a difference.”
More than just a convention
From art commissions and collectibles to meaningful conversations and mentorship, StocktonCon once again showed it’s more than just a fan event — it’s a local tradition with heart. And with a portion of the proceeds going to local charities, the impact extends well beyond the arena walls.
Whether you’re a first-time attendee or a familiar face in costume, StocktonCon proves that fandom — when mixed with community — can be a powerful force for good.
This story originally appeared in Stocktonia.
