This week, VidCon 2026 is taking place in Anaheim, California, welcoming online content creators and their fans to one of the largest conventions in the digital landscape. The event features a wide array of panels, workshops, and strategy sessions, running from Thursday through Saturday.
The creator economy has rapidly evolved into a multibillion-dollar industry over recent years, bringing together influencers, vloggers, gamers, and executives from platforms such as YouTube, Twitch, TikTok, and Discord.
This year, many creators have gained mainstream recognition, largely influenced by films like Backrooms (Kane Parsons) and Obsession (Curry Barker). Shows like Hot Ones have transformed from simple YouTube endeavors to cultural phenomena, prompting late-night hosts to reconsider the relevance of traditional celebrity interviews.
As the attention economy transitions from a few megastars to a broader array of brands and influencers, creators now face emerging challenges, particularly from artificial intelligence. Events like VidCon not only celebrate creators’ successes but also offer strategies to navigate the complexities of an evolving digital environment.
Understanding VidCon’s Evolution
John and Hank Green, YouTubers and creators of VidCon, speak at the Anaheim Convention Center in July 2015.
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Established in 2010 by YouTube creators John and Hank Green, VidCon began as a small gathering and has since transformed into a significant industry event, attracting between 50,000 and 75,000 participants.
Crystal Bell, Mashable’s digital culture editor, highlighted the significant evolution of VidCon, noting that it has expanded from a fan-centric event to a comprehensive gathering for various stakeholders in the creator economy. Bell stated, “What started as a fan-focused meeting has developed into a broader platform featuring dedicated programming for fans, creators, brands, and industry professionals.”
The convention is structured into three main tracks: the Fan track emphasizes interactive experiences and meet-ups, the Creator track facilitates networking among influencers, and the Industry track caters to media and business executives.
Notable Attendees at VidCon 2026
Rachel Pizzolato, social media personality, model and scientist who appeared on MythBusters Jr., at VidCon 2024 at Anaheim Convention Center.
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The 2026 Hall of Fame will commence on Thursday at 6 p.m. PT, honoring creators like filmmaker Markiplier, Philip DeFranco, Michelle Phan, and Cassey Ho, the founder of Blogilates. The event will also feature numerous creators participating in fan meet-and-greets, including the popular dancing weatherman Nick Kosir and the Minecrafter aCookieGod.
Representatives from CNET Group, which encompasses CNET, Mashable, PCMag, and ZDNET, will also be present, with CNET marketing manager Tara Brown emphasizing the importance of bringing together individuals interested in the creator economy.
Lindsey Turrentine, executive vice president of content for CNET Group, is scheduled to participate in a session on Friday titled The Trust Gap: Why Expertise Wins in the Age of Infinite Content. This panel will address how creators can thrive in an AI-dominated content landscape, focusing on how trust and monetization can stem from demonstrated expertise rather than mere authenticity.
Turrentine remarked, “The key for human creators is to lean into the human part, but always with expert knowledge and firsthand experience. Be yourself, know your stuff. It has to be both.”
Mashable will also host a mentorship session on Saturday at 10:30 a.m. PT aimed at helping creators enhance their outreach strategy and build effective relationships with the press, titled Pitch Please: The Mistakes Creators Make in Their Pitches and How to Fix Them.
What to Expect in Terms of Exhibitors
For those interested in technology, VidCon will feature exhibitors from various sectors, including video production companies like Blackmagic Design and consumer tech brands like Bandai. CNET’s Brown indicated that previous events showcased tools such as mobile microphones and streaming equipment from Elgato.
Ticket Information and Access
VidCon is a ticketed event, with options available for attendees in the Fan track (VidCon pass), Creator track (Creator pass), and Industry track (Pro pass). Single day tickets start at $109.
Additional Activities at VidCon
The convention will also host the sold-out GorillaCon, marking the first official live event dedicated to the popular VR game, Gorilla Tag. This immersive experience has gained traction in the gaming community, attracting a younger audience eager to explore its unique mechanics.