SYFY Bartow returns this Saturday, February 21st, with its 2026 event themed around Animation Invasion. The free, family-friendly convention will run from 11:00 AM to 6:00 PM at Mosaic Park Fairgrounds, 2250 S Floral Ave, Bartow, FL 33830 — a new location for the event, which had previously been held in Downtown Bartow.
The theme this year centers on animation in all its forms, from classic hand-drawn cartoons and Saturday morning staples to computer-animated films and anime.
Attendees can expect hundreds of vendors, two entertainment stages with live music, a TV and movie themed car show, lightsaber demonstrations, celebrity guests, and both human and pet costume contests. Kids activities and food trucks will also be on-site. Pets are welcome as well, with a costume contest open to four-legged attendees alongside their owners.
Admission is completely free, a policy the event has maintained throughout its run.
More information is available at bartowcon.com and on the event’s Facebook and other social media channels.
Beam Me Up Scotty
Born and raised in the city of Miami. Lifelong pro wrestling fan. Been deep in the 'zine scene since ’84, interviewing locals, Hardcore, Punk, and Metal bands. Spent 26 years in the comic book biz and still obsessed with all things pop culture—Mego, Micronauts, Shogun Warriors, Die-Cast Metal Super Robots, you name it. I can go on about comic books and bad movies all day.
