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Published: 4 March 2026

Burnside’s biggest cosplay, fantasy, comic and gaming event is back, bigger than ever for 2026.

Following the massive success of the inaugural 2025 event, we’re rolling it back for round 2. Come on the day and geek-out to the best in gaming, anime and adventure that Adelaide has to offer.

Last year saw some of the state’s best cosplayers come together to show off their skills, and this year they’ll be back, showing off their newest creations.

23-year-old Jacob (a.k.a @jacobmakes_) who last year came as Warhammer 40K character Commander Farsight and this year will be in costume as the Scarlet Spider said he is keen for the event to kick off again. A member of the Adelaide-based Cosplay Club (@cos.play.club), Jacob said GeekFest is one of the few opportunities for the South Australian cosplay, gaming, anime and comic communities to come together and celebrate the shared love of their favourite past times.

‘I thought it [GeekFest 2025] was really well run, the turnout was amazing,’ Jacob said.

‘It was great to see so many people turn out in character and enjoy themselves, interacting with the local artists. The facilities and the interactive elements that were on show, it was uplifting to see a council get into the cosplay and indie art scene the way Burnside did.’

Jacob said with the scene growing and becoming more mainstream, it was great to have a local alternative with so many of the major conventions missing Adelaide in favour of the larger eastern cities.

‘There are definitely more people doing this, but Cosplay Club really is the only group that exists in Adelaide for it. It’s growing exponentially – I know so many people who have joined in the last year, our numbers have exploded. It’s getting really popular and being able to reach more people through free public events like this only helps exposure and growing the community.’

‘Everyone will be at GeekFest for the same reason; everyone wants to dress up and enjoy the art. You’re interacting with people who like and love the same things that you do, being able to share knowledge and talk to everyone about the costumes you want to make. It is such an inviting community, and everyone wants you to succeed.’

GeekFest 2026 is more than just an event - it’s an immersive experience filled with hands-on activities, interactive displays and the chance to meet fellow enthusiasts – and it’s FREE to attend.

Whether you're a hardcore gamer, an anime lover, or simply curious about the world of geek culture, this is your chance to dive in and explore.

Held at the Burnside Civic Centre on Saturday 11 April, 1 pm – 6 pm. GeekFest is free to attend. Learn more HERE(External link)

Jacob dressed as Scarlet Spider is all ready for GeekFest 2026

Left: Jacob dressed as Commander Farsight with two other cosplayers at GeekFest 2025

GeekFest hosts stalls from local artists and creators

There is also table top gaming including D&D workshops

And gaming tournaments