Veteran Comic Con Returns to Oakland Nov. 14, Spotlighting Veterans

OAKLAND, Calif. — Military veterans who have turned to comics, illustration and storytelling will be among the featured creators at Veteran Comic Con, returning to downtown Oakland on Saturday, November 14, 2026. The event will take place from noon to 6 p.m. at Oakstop, 2323 Broadway, bringing together veteran artists, independent comic book creators, cosplay enthusiasts and families for an afternoon celebrating creativity and community.

Organized by the 501(c)(3) nonprofit Veteran Comic Con, the gathering aims to provide a platform for military veterans and independent artists to share their work, meet audiences and connect with fellow creators. The convention joins a fall lineup of Oakland literary and arts gatherings and East Bay community events across the city.

Veterans Share Their Creativity Through Comics

Among the featured participants is Anthony Dubose-McCree, a Marine Corps veteran and Purple Heart recipient who served three tours in Iraq. Working under the name Crumb Bum, he creates and publishes original comic books, including Carciness and the J series.

Other featured creators include Edward Coffey, an Army veteran and founder of Redwood Comics, and Nicholas Garza, an Army National Guard veteran and founder of Torrid Comics. Colin Hoffman, a Marine Corps veteran known as Big C, will also participate, sharing creative work that spans visual art, poetry, writing and toy design, including the Baby Fats character.

The lineup also includes John Daze, a military veteran and founder of The CreativeKeep Inc., and Michael VanDyken, an active-duty Air Force creative specializing in personalized artwork and design. Together, the participants represent a range of creative approaches, from original comic books and fantasy storytelling to illustration, graphic design and collectibles.

Cosplay, Star Wars Droids and Family Activities

In addition to the artist showcases, the convention will feature cosplay, merchandise vendors, fan groups and a costume contest offering cash prizes. Special guests include cosplayer Roger Presa, known as Hummin_H2, whose large-scale costumes include interpretations of comic book and science-fiction characters.

The Bay Area Droid Builders and ArtooSC & the D-Squad are also scheduled to appear with custom-built, full-scale droids inspired by the Star Wars universe. The convention is open to all ages and is intended to bring together longtime comic book fans, families and visitors interested in discovering independent artists alongside other cultural and community celebrations in Oakland.

A Platform for Veteran and Independent Creators

Veteran Comic Con describes its mission as supporting well-being, creative expression and community engagement. The event offers participating veterans an opportunity to present their creative work alongside other independent artists and connect directly with the public.

While the convention takes place during Veterans Day weekend, its focus extends beyond military service to include the artistic pursuits and creative businesses of veterans and other local creators. Organizers note on the Visit Oakland event calendar and the convention website that the program is designed to welcome both veteran creators and the wider Bay Area arts community.

How to Attend Veteran Comic Con

Veteran Comic Con is scheduled for Saturday, November 14, 2026, from noon to 6 p.m., at Oakstop, 2323 Broadway, Oakland. General admission is $10 for adults, while admission is free for veterans, military personnel and their guests, as well as children ages 12 and under.

The venue is near the 19th Street Oakland BART station, with public parking options in the surrounding area. For event details, online registration and the latest information, visit veterancomiccon.org.