Lightning McQueen, Tow Mater and Professor Z heading to Wellington Fan Fest this August
16 August 2026
Following a successful debut last year, Wellington Fan Fest returns to Wellington Market Square on Saturday 22 August, bringing a full day of pop culture and family entertainment.
The free event, organised by Wellington Orbit and Boardroom Gaming Cafe, and fully funded by Wellington Town Council, offers a packed programme of entertainment inspired by the worlds of film, gaming and pop culture.
Last year's event attracted hundreds of visitors and featured popular attractions including the Tumbler Batmobile and Telford Batman. Building on that success, this year's Fan Fest will welcome another iconic movie attraction, with Lightning McQueen, Tow Mater and Professor Z from Disney and Pixar's Cars arriving in Wellington Market Square. Visitors will have the chance to get up close with the movie-inspired vehicles throughout the day.
Alongside the movie-inspired vehicles, visitors can enjoy games, LEGO activities, family-friendly entertainment and a town-wide trail encouraging people to explore Wellington and discover local businesses taking part in the event.
The event will also showcase local creative talent, with author Joe Allen and stop-motion animator Leo Wright of Leo Wright Studios attending. Joe will host a character-building workshop and Q&A, giving visitors the chance to explore the creative process behind bringing characters to life, while attendees will also have the opportunity to meet both creatives and learn more about their work.
Visitors are encouraged to embrace the spirit of Fan Fest by dressing as their favourite characters, with cosplay welcomed throughout the day.
"We're so happy to be bringing Wellington Fan Fest back for a second year after such a great response to the first event," says Damian Breeze, Manager of Wellington Orbit. "One of the things we love most about Fan Fest is being able to bring a different iconic movie vehicle to Wellington each year. It's a rare opportunity to see these vehicles up close and experience something you wouldn't normally see in Wellington."
"We're excited to be bringing Wellington Fan Fest this year,” says Jon Drew, owner of Boardroom Gaming Cafe “Seeing the community come together made it one of the highlights of our summer last year, and we've put so much energy into making this year's event even bigger and better. We can't wait to welcome everyone back for another fantastic day in Wellington."
"We're excited to be bringing Wellington Fan Fest this year,” says Jon Drew, owner of Boardroom Gaming Cafe “Seeing the community come together made it one of the highlights of our summer last year, and we've put so much energy into making this year's event even bigger and better. We can't wait to welcome everyone back for another fantastic day in Wellington."
"Wellington Town Council is delighted to fully fund Fan Fest and welcome visitors to Wellington for what promises to be an exciting day,” Wellington Town Council said “Events like this are a fantastic way to bring people into the town, encourage local engagement and showcase all that Wellington has to offer.”
Wellington Fan Fest will take place on Saturday 22 August from 10am to 4pm in Wellington Market Square and entry is free to the event.
Further details about attractions, activities and exhibitors will be announced ahead of the event. For the latest updates, follow Wellington Orbit and Boardroom Gaming Cafe on Facebook.
