Palermo Comic Convention

The Sicilian Capital of Pop Culture

Palermo Comic Convention is the most significant event in Southern Italy dedicated to comics, games, and pop culture. Hosted every September at the Cantieri Culturali alla Zisa in Palermo—a historic complex formerly known as the Officine Ducrot—the event spans over 55,000 square meters, featuring more than twenty active spaces including exhibition halls, stages, gaming areas, and outdoor zones. It is a cross-media event that brings together comics, animation, cinema, TV series, voice acting, video games, e-sports, cosplay, and Japanese culture.

A Journey Starting in 2015

Founded in 2015 by a group of enthusiasts, Palermo Comic Convention has grown into a key reference point on the Italian comic book scene. Organized by the Dirty Dozen Cultural Association, it attracts thousands of visitors to the Sicilian capital each year, drawn by the high caliber of guests and the diverse range of activities on offer.

What to Expect at the Convention

• Meet-and-greets with Italian and international authors, comic artists, and illustrators
• Panels and conferences with voice actors, actors, YouTubers, and content creators
• Dedicated areas for video games, e-sports, and the Japan world
• Exhibitions, previews, screenings, and live performances
• The grand Cosplay Contest, featuring competitors from all over Italy
• Stands for publishers, artists, comic shops, and merchandise

Cosplay and Community

Cosplay is one of the beating hearts of the event: the corridors and squares of the Cantieri come alive with characters from comics, manga, anime, films, and video games. The Cosplay Contest, which rewards the most meticulously crafted costumes, is one of the most anticipated moments of the entire festival, alongside K-pop contests and gaming tournaments.

Palermo, the Capital of Sicily

Palermo Comic Convention takes place in the city of Palermo, the capital of Sicily and the Metropolitan City of Palermo. The Cantieri Culturali alla Zisa, located in the Zisa district just a short walk from the Arab-Norman castle of the same name, is one of the island's most vibrant cultural hubs, housing galleries, cinemas, and international institutes. The event plays a key role in showcasing this space and the entire cultural offering of the Palermo area.