Key Takeaways
- FAN EXPO New Orleans will take place on January 9-11, 2026, at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center
- The event features a rare "Lord of the Rings" reunion with Elijah Wood, Sean Astin, Billy Boyd, and Dominic Monaghan
- Other celebrity guests include John Cena, Hayden Christensen, Helen Hunt, and stars from "The Addams Family"
- The event will include over 150 panels, celebrity appearances, and interactive experiences
- Tickets are available for purchase, with options for single-day, three-day, family passes, and VIP packages
Introduction to FAN EXPO New Orleans
FAN EXPO New Orleans is set to take place on January 9-11, 2026, at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, offering a unique opportunity for Louisiana pop culture fans to experience Hollywood history firsthand. The three-day event will feature a wide range of programming, including major film, television, gaming, anime, and cosplay events. One of the most anticipated events is the rare "Lord of the Rings" reunion, which will mark 25 years of the franchise and bring together Elijah Wood, Sean Astin, Billy Boyd, and Dominic Monaghan on stage.
Celebrity Guest Lineup
The 2026 lineup for FAN EXPO New Orleans is impressive, with a range of stars from blockbuster films and iconic TV series. Some of the notable guests include John Cena, who will be appearing live on Saturday afternoon, and Hayden Christensen, who will be hosting a special experience on Friday night. Other celebrities attending the event include Helen Hunt, known for her roles in Twister and Mad About You, Dean Norris from Breaking Bad, and Mike Colter from Luke Cage. Fans of The Addams Family will also be excited to meet Christina Ricci and Christopher Lloyd, while Harry Potter fans can look forward to meeting Bonnie Wright and James and Oliver Phelps.
Panels and Programming
In addition to the celebrity appearances, FAN EXPO New Orleans will feature a wide range of panels and programming. These will include events centered on cosplay, voice acting, gaming, horror, podcasts, trivia, anime, and film, many of which will be led by New Orleans-based creators and organizations. The Creators Stage will host artists and writers discussing their craft, while the Community Zone will feature local nonprofits, charities, and interactive experiences. With over 150 panels and events to choose from, there will be something for everyone at FAN EXPO New Orleans.
Ticket Information and Event Schedule
Most panels are included in the general admission ticket, and the full event schedule is available through the FAN EXPO New Orleans mobile app and online at fanexpohq.com. Tickets are on sale now, with options for single-day, three-day, family passes, and VIP packages. Fans can purchase tickets at fanexponeworleans.com and start planning their weekend of celebrity access, exclusive panels, and unforgettable fandom moments. With FAN EXPO New Orleans marking the first stop on the 2026 FAN EXPO HQ calendar, this event is set to be an exciting start to a year of conventions nationwide.
The Significance of FAN EXPO New Orleans
FAN EXPO New Orleans is more than just a convention – it’s a celebration of pop culture and a showcase for Louisiana’s growing community of creators and fans. The event will bring together people from all over the state and beyond, providing a unique opportunity for networking, learning, and fun. With its diverse range of programming and celebrity guests, FAN EXPO New Orleans is set to be an unforgettable experience for anyone who attends. Whether you’re a fan of movies, TV, comics, or gaming, this event is not to be missed.
Conclusion
In conclusion, FAN EXPO New Orleans is shaping up to be an exciting and unforgettable event for fans of pop culture. With its rare "Lord of the Rings" reunion, impressive celebrity guest lineup, and wide range of panels and programming, there’s something for everyone at this event. Whether you’re a local or just visiting New Orleans, FAN EXPO New Orleans is a must-attend event for anyone who loves movies, TV, comics, and gaming. So mark your calendars for January 9-11, 2026, and get ready for a weekend of celebrity access, exclusive panels, and unforgettable fandom moments in the heart of the Crescent City.


