The Yellow City Comic Convention (YC3) is preparing to celebrate a major milestone as it returns for its 10th annual run later this month in Amarillo. The three-day fandom celebration will take place April 17 through April 19 at the Amarillo Civic Center, bringing together fans of comics, anime, gaming, film, television, and cosplay for one of the city’s largest pop culture gatherings of the year.
As YC3 reaches its tenth installment, organizers say the convention has grown into a community-driven event that emphasizes inclusion, creativity, and a welcoming environment for attendees of all backgrounds. The event has expanded steadily over the years, evolving from a regional convention into a multi-day experience featuring celebrity appearances, vendor markets, interactive panels, and fan-led activities. This year’s anniversary edition is expected to continue that tradition while adding new programming designed to keep the experience fresh for returning attendees.
A central highlight of YC3 2026 is its guest lineup, which spans television, anime, voice acting, and internet culture. Organizers have assembled seven featured guests known for their work across major entertainment franchises. Returning convention favorites include actors DJ Qualls and Andy Merrill, both of whom bring extensive resumes in television, film, and animation.
DJ Qualls, widely recognized for his roles in comedy films and television series, has appeared in projects such as “Road Trip,” “The New Guy,” and numerous television appearances including roles connected to long-running fan-favorite series. Beyond acting, he is also known for his advocacy work and public discussions surrounding cancer awareness following his personal health journey.
Andy Merrill, a writer, comedian, and voice actor, is closely associated with classic Adult Swim programming. He is especially recognized for his work in animated comedy, including characters and creative contributions that helped define early late-night animation culture. At YC3, Merrill is expected to take on a key role in hosting and moderating celebrity panels throughout the weekend.
Among the additional celebrity guests is Emily Swallow, known for her performances in both television and theater. She is recognized by genre audiences for her role in “Supernatural” and her portrayal of The Armorer in The Mandalorian. Her career also includes Broadway performances and advocacy work focused on mental health awareness.
Osric Chau also joins the guest roster, bringing experience from a variety of fan-favorite genre productions. He is widely known for his role as Kevin Tran in Supernatural and appearances in superhero-themed series such as “Arrow” and “The Flash.” Chau has become a familiar face at conventions worldwide, where he is active in cosplay and gaming communities.
YC3 will also feature prominent voice actors Clifford Chapin, David Matranga, and Kristen McGuire, each with extensive credits in anime and video game voice work. Chapin is recognized for roles in major anime series including Katsuki Bakugo in My Hero Academia and Connie Springer in Attack on Titan. Matranga is also associated with characters from the same franchises, contributing to English-language dubbing for globally popular anime titles. McGuire, who works as both a voice actor and director, is known for her work in anime localization and for her artistic contributions at conventions, where she often provides live sketches and customized artwork for attendees.
Cosplay remains one of the defining features of YC3, with organized competitions, professional guest cosplayers, and informal showcases throughout the weekend. Returning cosplay groups such as Children of Proteus and Venomous FX & Cosplay will be joined by additional creators and performance artists who specialize in costume design and character portrayal. Adult and youth cosplay contests are scheduled across the weekend, highlighting the craftsmanship and creativity of the cosplay community.
Gaming is another major component of the convention experience. The event will once again host the Olivia Austin Memorial Gaming Hall, offering both casual and competitive play across tabletop games, trading card games, retro consoles, and modern esports titles. Community partners and gaming groups will provide structured tournaments and open play sessions, giving attendees multiple ways to participate regardless of experience level.
New programming for this year includes a swap meet scheduled for Sunday, allowing attendees to trade collectibles, fandom merchandise, and memorabilia directly with one another. Organizers describe it as an expansion of the convention’s community-first approach, encouraging interaction among fans beyond traditional vendor spaces.
In addition to entertainment programming, YC3 continues its charitable mission by supporting Mission 2540 as this year’s beneficiary. The nonprofit focuses on serving families in low-income housing communities through educational programs, after-school activities, and outreach services. Convention proceeds contribute to these efforts, reinforcing YC3’s commitment to local impact.
Attendees will also find a range of on-site community activities, including pet adoption events and a mobile blood drive in partnership with Coffee Memorial Blood Center. Donors participating in the blood drive will receive ticket discounts, further integrating civic engagement into the convention experience.
Tickets are available both online and at the door, with pricing structured for adults and children across single-day and weekend passes. Children under five may attend free with a paying adult, and active-duty military personnel are granted free admission. The convention will open Friday evening, continue through full programming days on Saturday and Sunday, and conclude with a late-night afterparty featuring live DJ entertainment, themed drinks, and arcade access for badge holders.
As YC3 enters its second decade, organizers emphasize that the convention’s continued growth is rooted in its fan community. With its mix of celebrity guests, creative programming, gaming experiences, and charitable outreach, the 2026 edition aims to reinforce its place as one of Amarillo’s signature annual cultural events.
