For one terrifying weekend every year, thousands of horror fans descend upon Irving to celebrate everything creepy, bizarre, and unforgettable. From legendary actors, local artists, and fans dressing as their favorite horror icons, Texas Frightmare Weekend has become a must-visit destination for anyone who loves the world of horror.

The 2026 edition takes over the Irving Convention Center at Las Colinas from May 22-24 and promises another packed weekend of celebrity appearances, panels, screenings, photo opportunities, vendors, and enough horror memorabilia to make any collector’s wallet tremble. Since its beginnings in 2006, Texas Frightmare Weekend has grown into the Southwest’s premier horror convention and one of the biggest horror gatherings in the country.

One of the biggest draws every year is the incredible lineup of celebrity guests, and 2026 delivers a lineup that feels like a horror fan’s dream, or perhaps their favorite nightmare.

Fans can meet stars from some of the most recognizable franchises in horror history, including Matthew Lillard, David Arquette, and Skeet Ulrich from Scream, Tobin Bell, Shawnee Smith, and Leigh Whannell from Saw, as well as horror icons like Tom Savini, Tom Atkins, and Warwick Davis from Leprechaun. The convention also welcomes talents from modern horror favorites including McKenna Grace from Ghostbusters: Frozen Empire.

The convention will run Friday evening, all day Saturday, and Sunday afternoon. Be sure to check the schedule so you don’t miss your favorite panel or experience!

A few veteran Frightmare tips:

• Wear comfortable shoes—you will walk more than you think.
• Bring a budget for vendors because you will find something you “absolutely need.”
• Arrive early for popular guests.
• Leave time to wander because some of the best discoveries are the things you never planned to see.