By Laura Walter

DOVER — Dover Comic Con is one of the city’s biggest festivals, with some of the friendliest folks around. The 2023 pop culture festival returns June 17 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

The indoor/outdoor fest will fill downtown Dover on Loockerman Street, Federal Street and Martin Luther King Jr. Boulevard (streets will be closed to vehicular traffic). This is a family-friendly event, and admission is free (or buy VIP tickets for extra access). Enjoy a range of activities, from A to Z.

Animation

At the Dover Public Library, Delaware Anime Society will have TV episodes and a scavenger hunt, while the Pursuit for Peace Princesses snap photos with Disneyphiles.

Brandywine Valley SPCA

We dare you not to be charmed by the animals available for adoption. Meet them at the library.

Costumes

It’s not a convention without cosplay. Whether you make it or buy it, you’ll have more fun when you get into the spirit of dressing up — and consider entering the contest.

Dynamite

Dynamite Championship Wrestling brings a live wrestling match to Legislative Mall this year, plus autographs and appearances all day.

Endgame

Kick off the weekend with a free Friday night movie at Christ Episcopal Church. “Avengers: Endgame” starts at 7 p.m.

Flippers

The First State Flippers will host a pinball tournament at the Wesley U.M. Church Fellowship Hall. Dexterous digits are welcome.

Geek out

Your eyes will probably light up over a particularly cool costume or souvenir — but always ask permission before taking someone’s photo.

Habitat for Humanity

Enter the fundraiser drawing to win a hand-painted, comic book-themed Adirondack chair, hosted by Central Delaware Habitat for Humanity.

Illustration

Art is important to the world, so enjoy the visual bonanza of comic books, graphic novels and individual drawings.

Jewelry

Accessories can transform an outfit (and call to your fellow fans), from superhero earrings to swanky pocket watches.

Kid-friendly

Dover Comic Con is a family-friendly event that is designed as a safe, open and accepting environment for everyone.

Link (and Zelda, Mario, Peach, Bowser…)

Everyone loves a good throwback, whether a classic video game, film or book. Pretty much any fictional character belongs here.

Mischief, Murder and Mayhem

Actually, just stories of it. First State Heritage Park staff will lead hourly tours through downtown Dover, with tales of Dover’s historical heroes and villains.

New experiences

This is a completely free event to attend, so take advantage of the new opportunities. Go hear one of the lectures, or meet a working droid, or ask the DCW pro wrestlers about their moves.

Old State House

Panel discussions will be held at this historic site, including talks on comic books, theatre, manga and more.

Pop Culture Cars

Photo ops abound with the series of pop culture cars, including a Pikabug, Sharkmobile and more.

Quaint Villages

Are you digging the scene? Kent County Tourism will be on hand to share more information about interesting outings around the region.

Register early

Check the  rules for the video game and costume contests. There are specific locations and deadlines for registration.

Space Sci-fi

Outer space has inspired great films, comics and television. Welcome to the Trekkies, the Whovians and any Guardians who might show up. Your costumes are sure to delight.

Twitch

The final rounds of the Super Smash Bros. tourney at the Biggs Museum of American Art will be featured online during a Twitch.tv livestream.

Unicorns

Let’s be honest: this is a joyful gathering of pop culture. There’ll definitely be stickers, plushies, face paint and hopefully some unicorn costumes.

Vader

Cosplayers from the 501st Legion First State Garrison and Rebel Legion: Ghost Base will pose with “Star Wars” fans all day.

Walking

Remember, conventions are a long day, since there’s lots of cool stuff to see. Wear comfortable shoes, bring sun protection and drink water.

e-X-hibitors

Buy a Comic Con T-shirt or any of the other gifts, art, dice, accessories, costumes and other gear that vendors will be selling.

Yumminess

Enjoy everything from hot grilled foods to frosty treats.

Session Zero

Learn about starting a Dungeons & Dragons game (usually called “Session Zero) and more D&D fun at the Old State House panel discussions.

Dover Comic Con is produced by the Delaware State News with the support of many local businesses, the Dover Public Library, the city of Dover, Dover Federal Credit Union, Dover Electric, P&G Dover Wipes Plant and Kent County Tourism.

Learn more (and purchase VIP tickets for parking, snacks and more collectibles) at DelmarvaEvents.net, or visit Facebook and Instagram.