Heroes World enjoys its first successful day: Brussels Expo will once again be all about pop culture on Sunday

From Hollywood stars and impressive cosplay to K-pop and gaming: three major pop culture events come together under one roof

17/10/2026

17 October 2026 – Today, Heroes World opens its doors for the first time, bringing together fans of films, TV series, gaming, comics, anime and manga for the first edition of the revamped festival. With international guests, colourful cosplayers, exciting activities and hundreds of stands, there is something to discover in every corner of the event. Anyone who missed the opening day will still have the chance to immerse themselves in the world of Heroes World tomorrow, Sunday 18 October.

With Heroes World, organiser Easyfairs is bringing together Made in Asia, Heroes Comic Con and GameForce for the first time under a single umbrella festival concept. The three familiar events retain their own character and communities, but now offer visitors the chance to discover other facets of pop culture as well.

From Harry Potter to the world of gaming

One of the major highlights of this first edition is the impressive guest list. Hollywood actor Ralph Fiennes, known worldwide as Lord Voldemort from the Harry Potter films, and Matthew Lewis, who played Neville Longbottom in the film series, are among the best-known names on the line-up. James Lafferty, known to an entire generation as Nathan Scott from One Tree Hill, will also be making an appearance in Brussels.

But it’s not just the stars who take centre stage. Visitors also put on a show, with homemade costumes inspired by popular films, TV series, games and anime. Amidst the themed sets, fan clubs and collectors’ stalls, the diversity of pop culture comes to life.

Gaming, meanwhile, takes centre stage on Game Island. Visitors can meet Belgian indie developers, take part in gaming tournaments and enjoy retro classics and interactive experiences. The team behind the award-winning video game Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 will also be present this weekend, including lead writer Jennifer Svedberg-Yen and voice actors Kirsty Rider and Rich Keeble.

In the Made in Asia zone, everything revolves around anime, manga, Japanese culture and music. With performances by Japanese bands and a wide range of creative experiences, Asian pop culture is also strongly represented.

One festival, different communities

“With Heroes World, we want to create a place where different pop culture communities can meet and inspire one another,” says Anthony Audenaerd, Event Director of Heroes World. “The beauty of this concept is that visitors can not only come here to indulge their own passions, but also discover new worlds. From films and TV series to gaming, cosplay and anime: that diversity is what makes Heroes World special. And the good news is that everyone still has the chance to experience it for themselves tomorrow.”

There’s still plenty to discover on Sunday too

If you can’t make it to Brussels Expo today, you won’t have to miss out on anything. On Sunday 18 October, Heroes World will open its doors once again for a day full of encounters, activities and pop culture.

Practical info

No plans for Sunday yet? Heroes World is open on 18 October from 10.00 to 17.00 at Brussels Expo. Tickets are available via www.heroes-world.be. Children aged 10 and under get free entry when accompanied by an adult.

More information and high-resolution images can be found in the press room.