GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. -- The Realm Makers Expo this weekend in downtown Grand Rapids will celebrate Christian storytelling.
Organizers call it a first-of-its-kind fan convention featuring bestselling authors, exclusive premieres, and family-friendly entertainment.
The event runs Friday through Sunday at DeVos Place and will showcase fantasy, sci-fi, gaming, comics and animation.
More information gleaned from a Real Makers' news release is posted below:
A dynamic collaboration between the Realm Makers Writers Conference and the Christian Game Developers Conference, the Expo will bring together fans, families, and creators in a vibrant showcase of fantasy, sci-fi, gaming, comics, animation, and more. This landmark event offers a unique opportunity to engage with Christian artists who are shaping popular culture with stories rooted in faith.
Star-Studded Guest Lineup
Attendees will have the chance to meet an impressive roster of industry luminaries, including:
· Mike Nawrocki, co-creator of VeggieTales and voice of Larry the Cucumber.
· Katie Leigh, renowned voice actress from Adventures in Odyssey and
Totally Spies!.
· Brent Weeks, New York Times bestselling author of the Lightbringer and
Night Angel series.
· Jeff Wheeler, bestselling author of The Druid, Queen Mother, Muirwood, and Kingfountain series.
· S.D. Smith, creator of the cherished Green Ember series, and performing Green Ember Live on Sunday afternoon.
· N.D. Wilson, author of 100 Cupboards and writer & director of The Riot and the Dance.
· Alex “Magnus” Lehman, director of creative management at Riot Games (League of Legends).
Exclusive Events and Experiences
The Expo promises a packed schedule of can’t-miss activities:
· Film Premieres:
- The complete 2D animated feature Light of the World releasing Sept 5
- an exclusive early screening of Angel Studio’s Wingfeather Saga
Season 3
- and the Genesis-inspired anime Gabriel and the Guardians, also through Angel Studios.
· Live Performances:
- S.D. Smith’s Green Ember Live, Experience a new, never-released Green Ember story performed LIVE by S. D. Smith! An exciting event for the whole family to enjoy! Did you know that S. D. Smith is a songwriter as well as a bestselling author? During Green Ember Live, he will share songs from Green Ember books and invite you to sing along.
- The Main Street Music Show, This is your chance to witness their unique brand of clean sketch comedy radio show with live music and incredible musical talent in person. Prepare for a high-energy show packed with original humor and captivating performances.
Featuring guest stars Mike Nawrocki, and Katie Leigh!
· Panels and Sessions: Industry experts will share insights on writing, game design, animation, comics, and filmmaking.
· Exhibit Hall: A marketplace featuring books, games, comics, and art from Christian creators, with opportunities to support their projects via platforms like Kickstarter.
Event Details
· Date: July 18-20, 2025
· Location: DeVos Place Convention Center, 303 Monroe Ave NW, Grand Rapids, MI
· Expo Tickets - available at expo.realmmakers.com
o VIP Pass: $150 (includes exclusive swag, access to all ticketed events, front row seating at special events and expo content, 10% off at the Realm Makers Bookstore and a $40 discount to the Realm Awards Gala)
o Adult Weekend Pass (Sat-Sun): $40
o Youth Weekend Pass (Sat-Sun): $20
o Family Pass (Sat-Sun): $120 (covers all children)
o Single-Day Passes: Available for Saturday or Sunday
o Kids 11 and Under: Free admission to all ticketed events
· Special Event Tickets: (Included with a VIP Ticket)
o Main Street Music Show: $20 Adults, $10 Youth
o Green Ember Live: $20 Adults, $10 Youth
· Accommodations: We’ve already sold out of our room blocks at Amway Grand and Hyatt Place!
A Call to the Grand Rapids Community
“We’re thrilled to bring Realm Makers Expo to Grand Rapids, a city known for its vibrant community and love of the arts,” said Scott Minor, co-founder of Realm Makers. “This is a chance for locals to experience a world-class fan convention, connect with inspiring creators, and celebrate stories that uplift and inspire. We invite everyone to join us for this historic event!” Tickets are now on sale at expo.realmmakers.com. With a welcoming atmosphere for fans of all backgrounds and free admission for children 11 and under, Realm Makers Expo 2025 is poised to be a highlight of the summer for West Michigan families, creatives, and enthusiasts.
# # #
About Realm Makers Realm Makers is dedicated to fostering a community of Christian creators and fans in speculative fiction and related genres. The Realm Makers Expo marks a new chapter in its mission to celebrate faith-driven storytelling and connect creators with audiences worldwide. Learn more at www.realmmakers.com.