Goldsboro, N.C. — The Paramount Theatre will transform into a hub of fandom, creativity, and community as Goldsboro FanFest 2026 takes place on Saturday, Feb. 21. Doors open at 12 p.m. on this high-energy celebration of pop culture as it invites fans of all ages to experience a full day of immersive entertainment, hands-on activities, and downtown adventures.
FanFest attendees can enjoy a wide range of activities included with their wristband, including interactive workshops, gaming events, cosplay experiences, vendor markets, discounts and promotions at various downtown shops and restaurants, and special attractions throughout the Paramount Theatre and surrounding downtown district.
One of the event’s featured experiences is a live, interactive voice acting workshop led by industry professional Jason Burroughs, helping participants explore character performance and vocal storytelling. Fans can also take part in Sci-Fi Puppet Lab: Hands-On Creature Creation with entertainment industry veteran Cheralyn Lambeth, where guests will design and create their own simple hand puppets inspired by science-fiction favorites. Cosplay enthusiasts can gain insight into costume creation and performance with Rocky Melvin, who will share practical tips for bringing characters to life on and off the stage.
Gamers will find plenty to explore, including a Magic: The Gathering Chaos Draft, sponsored and hosted by Gilded Dragon. This unpredictable tournament challenges players to embrace randomness and strategy in a fun, competitive environment.
Throughout the day, attendees can browse vendors offering collectibles, trading cards, comics, artwork, handmade items, and tabletop gaming accessories. A downtown scavenger hunt encourages exploration of local businesses, while a themed car show at Green Thumb Florist will feature fan-favorite vehicles, including Bumble Bee, Barricade, Hot Rod, and more.
The excitement continues after hours (8-10 p.m.) with the official FanFest Tavern Crawl, a Dungeons & Dragons-inspired adventure through downtown Goldsboro featuring themed challenges and stops at Kolibri, Momento, Three65, and Well Traveled Beer. This 21+ experience is a low-cost add-on for wristband holders.
The day concludes at 6 p.m. with a special screening of “Avengers: Endgame,” bringing fans together to celebrate one of the most iconic cinematic finales in modern pop culture.
“Goldsboro FanFest is about bringing people together through creativity, imagination, and shared passions,” said Jim Grant, Theatre Services Manager at the Paramount Theatre. “From hands-on workshops to gaming, cosplay, and downtown adventures, there’s truly something for everyone to enjoy.”
Goldsboro FanFest continues to grow as one of the region’s most engaging community pop-culture events, connecting local businesses, artists, and fans in a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere.
For tickets, schedules, and event details, visit www.goldsboroparamount.com.
