Veterans Day Weekend in Oakland: Veteran Comic Con Celebrates Military Veterans, Art and the Power of Creativity
The nonprofit event returns November 14, bringing veteran and independent comic book artists, Star Wars droids, cosplay, and family-friendly activities to downtown Oakland while highlighting the therapeutic benefits of creative expression for veterans.
OAKLAND, CA — November 9, 2026 — This Veterans Day weekend, military veterans will be recognized for more than their service. On Saturday, November 14, Veteran Comic Con returns to downtown Oakland, bringing together veteran artists, independent comic book creators, and the Bay Area community for a celebration of art, storytelling, and popular culture.
But behind the comics, costumes, and colorful characters is a deeper mission: supporting veterans through creative expression and the therapeutic benefits of art.
Veteran Comic Con returns to Oakland on Saturday, November 14, 2026.
Veteran Comic Con was founded on the belief that art can provide veterans with a meaningful outlet for processing their experiences, expressing emotions, and connecting with others after military service. Through the familiar and accessible world of comic books, the organization hopes to introduce more veterans to the possibilities of creativity while encouraging the public to appreciate their talents beyond the uniform.
The nonprofit convention will take place from noon to 6 p.m. at Oakstop, located at 2323 Broadway in Oakland. General admission is just $10, with free admission for veterans, military personnel and their guests, and children 12 and under.
More Than Comics: Why Veteran Comic Con Exists
For many veterans, transitioning from military to civilian life can bring challenges that are difficult to put into words. Art offers another way to explore those experiences, whether through illustration, writing, storytelling, sculpture, or other creative pursuits.
Veteran Comic Con founder Constance Pleasant was inspired by witnessing how art therapy helped her veteran father process his own experiences. That personal connection became part of the foundation for an organization dedicated to encouraging veterans to explore their creativity and share their work with the community.
Comic books provide a particularly accessible introduction to creative expression. Combining visual art and storytelling, they allow artists to communicate ideas and experiences in ways that can be imaginative, personal, entertaining, or deeply meaningful.
By bringing veteran creators together with comic book fans and independent artists, the convention creates opportunities for artistic expression, recognition, and connection.
One of those artists is Colin "Big C" Hoffman, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran and Bay Area artist whose work has been featured in television news coverage exploring the connection between art and veteran mental health.
Hoffman has spoken openly about his experiences with PTSD and how creating artwork has helped him cope with difficult emotions.
"When I'm creating art, all the other problems aren't there." — Colin "Big C" Hoffman, U.S. Marine Corps veteran, speaking with KCRA 3
U.S. Marine Corps veteran and artist Colin "Big C" Hoffman with one of his original creations.
His work includes sculptures, designer toys, illustrations, and installations addressing veteran mental health and suicide awareness.
Hoffman has also advocated for greater access to art therapy and creative opportunities for veterans.
His story reflects the larger mission of Veteran Comic Con: helping veterans discover the value of artistic expression while giving the public an opportunity to see and support their creative accomplishments.
Celebrating Veterans Through Art and Storytelling
While traditional comic conventions often focus on celebrities and major entertainment franchises, Veteran Comic Con puts the spotlight on military veterans who have pursued illustration, writing, comic book publishing, and other creative fields.
Army National Guard veteran Nicholas Garza of Torrid Comics is among the artists appearing at Veteran Comic Con.
This year's featured veteran creators include:
- Colin "Big C" Hoffman, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran, Bay Area artist, writer, and toy designer known for creating the Baby Fatts character. Previously featured in national and regional media coverage of veteran artists, Hoffman has also used his artwork to address veteran mental health and suicide awareness.
- Robert Stewart, a U.S. Navy veteran and the writer, artist, and publisher behind Afterburner Comics. His graphic novel series, Afterburner: Tales of the Cool and the Wicked, combines science fiction, film noir, and mythology.
- Nicholas Garza, an Army National Guard veteran and comic book creator behind Torrid Comics.
- Edward Coffey, a U.S. Army veteran, artist, and founder of Redwood Comics.
- Anthony DuBose-McCree, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran and Purple Heart recipient who creates and publishes original comic books through Crumbbum Comics.
Attendees can meet these creators, explore their original artwork and stories, and purchase comics and merchandise directly from the artists.
The convention also welcomes independent artists, illustrators, writers, and small businesses from Oakland and throughout the Bay Area, giving local creators an opportunity to showcase their work and connect with new audiences.
Star Wars Droids, Cosplay and Activities for the Whole Family
In addition to its veteran artist showcase, Veteran Comic Con offers attractions for comic book fans, families, and visitors of all ages.
Star Wars enthusiasts can meet life-size, custom-built droids presented by Bay Area Droid Builders and ArtooSC & the D-Squad. These fan-built creations move, interact with visitors, and offer photo opportunities throughout the event.
Veteran Comic Con welcomes families and fans of all ages with cosplay, interactive attractions, and photo opportunities.
Returning special guest Roger "Hummin_H2" Presa will showcase his larger-than-life cosplay creations, giving attendees the opportunity to see his elaborate costumes up close.
Elaborate costumes and fan-favorite characters are part of the Veteran Comic Con experience.
Additional highlights include:
- A cosplay contest featuring creative costumes and characters.
- Interactive children's art activities hosted by the Cartoon Art Museum and Oakland-based Chapter 510.
- Independent comic book artists, illustrators, and creators.
- Original comics, collectibles, artwork, and merchandise from participating vendors.
- Opportunities to meet and support military veterans working in the creative arts.
The event combines the excitement of a comic convention with the opportunity to discover original artwork, support independent creators, and introduce families to the importance of creative expression.
An Oakland Community Event With a Veterans Day Mission
Held during Veterans Day weekend, Veteran Comic Con provides a different way for the community to recognize military service by celebrating veterans' talents, creativity, and accomplishments beyond the uniform.
Rather than focusing exclusively on military experiences, the event highlights what veterans can create, contribute, and accomplish in their civilian lives.
The convention also supports Oakland's creative community by bringing independent artists, local organizations, and families together in a welcoming environment.
Through its combination of comics, art, and community engagement, Veteran Comic Con hopes to encourage more veterans to explore creative outlets, connect with fellow artists, and discover new opportunities for self-expression.
Art can be more than a hobby. For veterans navigating life after service, creativity can provide an outlet for expression, connection, and healing.
Event Details
Event: Veteran Comic Con 2026
Date: Saturday, November 14, 2026
Time: 12:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m.
Location: Oakstop, 2323 Broadway, Oakland, CA
General Admission: $10
Free Admission: Veterans, military personnel and their guests, and children 12 and under
Website: VeteranComicCon.org
About Veteran Comic Con
Veteran Comic Con is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting military veterans through creative expression, art, and community engagement.
Founded on a belief in the therapeutic benefits of art, the organization uses the accessible and imaginative world of comic books to encourage artistic exploration, provide a platform for veteran and independent creators, and connect veterans with audiences who appreciate their work.
Through its convention and community programs, Veteran Comic Con celebrates creativity as a means of self-expression, connection, and personal growth.
Media Contact
Veteran Comic Con
Email: albert@veterancomiccon.org
Website: VeteranComicCon.org
Media interviews with participating veteran artists and event organizers are available upon request.
