The History of Dream Con: Then vs Now

RDCWorld’s Dream Con is approaching its seventh anniversary! What started as a small gathering of enthusiasts and artists in 2018 has grown into a significant convention scheduled to happen in Houston, Texas, one of the largest cities in the U.S. in 2025. The convention has grown over the years from a modest event in Waco to one of the most expected conventions in pop culture. The success of Dream Con moving to George R. Brown Convention Center confirms its powerful presence in the fandom convention industry.

Dream Con traces its origins back to Mark Phillips and Affiong Harris’ hometown in Waco, Texas. The Waco Convention Center housed Dream Con in 2018 and 2019. During this period, the event maintained an intimate atmosphere of 600 attendees, with only a slight increase during the second year. With minimal security, guests and creators mingled openly with fans, resulting in a cherished, close-knit experience.

The global pandemic forced Dream Con, and many other events, to shut down in 2020. Although fans around the world could not enjoy Dream Con in person, they could still partake virtually in panels, gaming tournaments, and a cosplay contest. During the hiatus, the team regrouped and reassessed their approach amidst the pandemic. In 2021, the team brought back the event and hosted it at the Esports Arena in Arlington, Texas. The new location offered more room for bigger crowds, exhibit hall, panels, and robust All-Star gaming tournaments.  Attendance increased to 2,500 and then hit 6,000 in 2022 at the Esports Arena despite the ongoing challenges of COVID restrictions.

By 2023, Dream Con quickly outgrew the Esports Arena in Arlington forcing the team to seek out a larger venue in Austin, Texas. Dream Con more than tripled their attendance to 20,000 becoming a milestone for both Dream Con and the Austin Convention Center. With this expansion, Dream Con elevated their programming experience while also adding a larger Exhibit Hall and Gaming Hall. Dream Con’s sheer size and scope exceeded that of Austin’s major yearly events, solidifying its reputation as an event not to be missed. The 2023 event was more dynamic and fully realized with the end of strict COVID restrictions.

As Dream Con celebrates its seventh year in 2024, the team is excited to be at Houston's George R. Brown Convention Center. Dream Con has developed from its modest beginnings in Waco to become a significant presence in Houston, making its mark in each city it visits. With more attractions and a larger audience, Dream Con has the potential to become a permanent fixture in Houston’s entertainment scene.

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