Monster-Mania Con 68 2026: Celebrity Guests, Events and Ticket Guide

Horror fans have a new date circled on their calendars. Monster-Mania Con 68 lands in Baltimore, Maryland, from October 30 through November 1, 2026. The show takes place at the Hilton Baltimore Inner Harbor, a short walk from Camden Yards. This guide covers the guest list, the schedule, and everything you need to know before you buy a ticket.

What Is Monster-Mania Con

Monster-Mania is a long-running horror and memorabilia convention. It started in 1999, and the first public show ran in 2003 at a hotel in Cherry Hill, New Jersey. Since then, the event has grown into a semi-annual tradition. Fans travel from across the country to meet actors, browse rare collectibles, and celebrate classic horror films.

The show rotates between a few East Coast cities. Cherry Hill, New Jersey and Oaks, Pennsylvania host regular editions, and Baltimore has become a popular fall stop. This particular edition, number 68 in the series, marks the Halloween weekend show in Baltimore.

Event Dates and Location

The convention runs for three days. Doors open Friday and stay busy through the weekend before wrapping up Sunday evening.

Here are the key details at a glance.

Because the venue sits near a well-known baseball stadium, out-of-town guests will find plenty of hotels, restaurants, and parking garages within walking distance. The Inner Harbor waterfront also offers a break from the convention floor if you need fresh air between panels.

Celebrity Guests to Expect

Guest lists at fan conventions tend to shift as the date approaches. Actors sometimes cancel due to filming schedules or other commitments. However, the organizers have already confirmed several well-known names for this Baltimore weekend.

Cassandra Peterson, best known as Elvira, Mistress of the Dark, is set to appear. Her career spans decades of horror hosting, film roles, and pop culture appearances, so meet-and-greet lines for her are usually long.

Nick Castle is also on the list. Castle played Michael Myers in the original 1978 Halloween film, a role that helped define the modern slasher genre. Fans of the Halloween franchise, including later entries like Halloween Kills and Halloween Ends, will likely want an autograph from him.

Buz Hasson rounds out the early lineup. As the schedule fills in, expect additional names tied to horror television, cult classics, and genre film franchises.

Because the roster can change, it is worth checking the official website close to the event. Guests are sometimes only available on certain days, so confirm the schedule before you plan your trip around a specific star.

Show Hours and Daily Schedule

Autograph sessions and the dealers room run on separate but overlapping schedules. Friday tends to open later in the afternoon, while Saturday and Sunday start in the morning.

These hours give attendees plenty of time to line up autographs, shop for collectibles, and attend photo sessions across the three-day run. Because Saturday has the longest window, many fans treat it as the busiest day and plan accordingly.

What to Expect at the Convention

This event is built around a few core attractions. Autograph tables sit at the center of the show floor, where actors sign posters, DVD covers, and personal memorabilia. Photo ops run separately from autographs, so attendees often need to plan both into their day.

The dealers room fills a large section of the venue with vendors selling horror movie props, vintage posters, comics, apparel, and collectibles. Independent artists also sell original artwork inspired by classic films.

Beyond shopping and signings, the weekend usually includes:

• Themed panels and discussions with guests
• Costume contests and cosplay meetups
• Screenings tied to horror franchises
• A dedicated magazine and merchandise store

Because the schedule can change closer to the dates, attendees should check the official site for panel times and any added programming once it is announced.

Ticket Types and How to Buy Them

Tickets for this convention are sold online through the official checkout page. Buying in advance is recommended, since walk-up prices at the door are typically higher than online rates.

Most shows in this series offer a few standard ticket categories, including single-day passes, full weekend passes, and VIP packages that bundle in perks like early entry or exclusive merchandise. Additionally, autograph and photo op tickets are usually purchased separately from general admission, since general admission covers access to the venue rather than a guaranteed signature or photo.

Because pricing and package details can change between shows, it is best to confirm exact costs on the official ticketing page before completing a purchase. Buying early also helps secure photo op slots, which tend to sell out for popular guests.

Planning Your Trip to Baltimore

If you are traveling from outside the area, book your hotel early. The Hilton Baltimore Inner Harbor is the host venue, so staying there puts you steps from the show floor. Rooms at the host hotel often sell out weeks in advance, especially around a Halloween weekend date.

For travelers who want lower rates, several hotels near the Inner Harbor and Camden Yards offer easy access by foot or a short rideshare trip. Parking downtown can be limited, so consider public transit or a hotel with included parking if you are driving in.

Since the event falls on Halloween weekend, expect the city to be busier than usual. Restaurants, bars, and nearby attractions may also run seasonal events, so booking dinner reservations ahead of time is a smart move.

Tips for First-Time Attendees

Attending a horror convention for the first time can feel overwhelming. A little preparation goes a long way toward a smoother experience.

• Arrive early on Saturday, since it is usually the busiest day
• Bring cash for smaller vendors who may not accept cards
• Check the guest list the week of the show for last-minute changes
• Pre-purchase autograph or photo op tickets for popular guests
• Wear comfortable shoes, since the venue involves a lot of walking

Additionally, first-timers should pace themselves. With autographs, photo ops, panels, and a large dealers room all happening at once, it helps to prioritize the guests and items that matter most to you rather than trying to do everything in one day.

Why This Convention Matters to Horror Fans

Shows like this one keep classic horror culture alive. They give fans a rare chance to meet the actors behind iconic roles, from slasher villains to cult television hosts. Therefore, the weekend works as both a shopping trip and a fan gathering, drawing people who grew up watching these films on late-night television.

The Baltimore setting also adds a seasonal touch. Held right at Halloween, the event lines up with the holiday most closely tied to the horror genre. As a result, many attendees treat the weekend as their main Halloween celebration.

Conclusion

Monster-Mania Con 68 brings horror fans to Baltimore from October 30 through November 1, 2026, at the Hilton Baltimore Inner Harbor. The confirmed guest list includes Cassandra Peterson, Nick Castle, and Buz Hasson, with more names likely to be added before the show. Attendees can expect a packed schedule of autographs, photo ops, a large dealers room, and panel discussions spread across three days. Because guest appearances and ticket details can shift, checking the official website before the event is the best way to plan your visit. Whether you are chasing a specific autograph or simply want a Halloween weekend surrounded by fellow horror fans, this Baltimore edition offers a full weekend of programming worth the trip.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is Monster-Mania Con 68 taking place?

The event runs from October 30 to November 1, 2026, over Halloween weekend.

Where is Monster-Mania Con 68 held?

It takes place at the Hilton Baltimore Inner Harbor, located at 401 W. Pratt Street, Baltimore, Maryland.

Who are the confirmed celebrity guests?

Cassandra Peterson, Nick Castle, and Buz Hasson are confirmed so far, though the lineup may grow closer to the event.

How do I buy tickets?

Tickets are available through the official online checkout page, with options for general admission, weekend passes, and VIP packages.

Do I need a separate ticket for autographs and photos?

Yes. General admission grants entry to the venue, while autographs and photo ops with guests are typically purchased as separate add-ons.

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