Professional Programming
Curated Programming for Industry Professionals Across Comics, Entertainment, Retail, and Literary Space to Include Panels, Free Giveaways, Private Signings, and More
Where?
River Pavilion which is in the Javits Center building and can be accessed through the Crystal Palace after you pass through registration and security. To access River Pavilion, utilize the escalators that go up to the Mezzanine located behind Will Call.
When?
Wednesday, October 8–Sunday, October 12
*River Pavilion is open to Industry Professionals with Artist Alley, Writers Block, Professional Thursday, Professional 4-Day, Sidekicks, Press, Content Creator, Panelist, and Exhibitor badge types. Fan badges like 4-Day, VIP, and Single Days will not be able to access this area.
Looking to apply for a Pro Badge? Both the complimentary Thursday and discounted 4-Day include access to our Wednesday River Pavilion programming! The deadline to apply is September 5, 2025 (or when we they sell out, whichever comes first).
Who can attend Professional Programming in River Pavilion?
NYCC’S Pro Program services a wide-array of professionals looking to increase their industry knowledge, sharpen their skills, and expand their networks. This year Professional Programming is only open to Industry Professionals. This includes badge and ticket types such as: Artist Alley, Writers Block, Pro Thursday, Pro 4-Day, Press, Content Creator, Panelist, Exhibitor and Sidekicks. Fan tickets such as Single Day and 4-Day Weekend tickets, are not permitted in River Pavilion.
NEW Amenities for Professionals at NYCC
Professionals are invited to relax, recharge, and connect in a space designed with your comfort and productivity in mind. Sink into our plush couches, sip on a fresh coffee, or spark new connections at our networking hub in the Press & Pro Lounge.
If you need a quiet spot to work or conduct interviews, our rentable media suites and private office spaces are ideal for editing, recording, or catching up on work between events. Hosting a catered lunch? We’ve got a dedicated space just for that, too.
To reserve a private office or media suite, contact Mike Negin - [email protected].
NEW Professional Programming Stage
Two Stages of Programming. This year, we’re doubling the experience with not one, but two stages dedicated entirely to workshops and panels. From comic creators and entertainers to educators, librarians and retailers, each session is led by experts ready to share their knowledge and passion.
Square footage expansion. The ultimate destination for Pros just got larger. The entirety of River Pavilion is dedicated to Pros only this year. Over 45,000 Sq Ft. That overlooks the Show Floor and Hudson River.
Highlights on Wednesday, October 8, 2025
New York Comic Con, in association with Thomas A. Crowell, Esq., and the National Academy of Continuing Legal Education present Authorship in the Balance: The Clash Between Human Authorship, Artificial Intelligence, and Copyright Law, Comic Book Law 101: Foundations of Comic Book Law for a Changing Market, Practicing Comic Book Law: Drafting Contracts That Bring Comics to Life
Comic Book Retailer’s Day
NYCC invites professionals in the comics industry to a day with Lunar Distribution, Jim Lee, Topps, Todd McFarlane, ComicsPro, Tiny Onion, and more! Jim Lee, known for Batman, Justice League, Suicide Squad, and Todd Mcfarlane, co-founder of Image Comics, will chat with comic shop retailers. There will be over 4 hours of comic book publisher presentations and discussions amongst industry veterans blending storytelling, mentorship, and industry talk.
Swag and promotional materials for participating retailers! Select creators will be on hand for retailer-only signings.
Professional Tables at Comic Book Retailer’s Day
The Professional Tables are an opportunity for professionals to connect with comic book publishers that will be on hand to meet face-to-face with comic shops and hobby store retailers. Publishers and brands will be unveiling their new products and publishing slates. There will also be representatives across collectibles and trading card brands to financial and distribution resources. Publishers and brands will be available from 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM.
For questions about Comic Book Retailer’s Day, or to register, please contact [email protected]
Highlights on Thursday October 9, 2025
The Comic Industry Mixer Presented by Comic Sketch Art
ATTN: Comic Industry Pros – this event is for you! If you have a ticket type such as: Artist Alley, Writers Block, Pro Thursday, Pro 4-Day, Press, Content Creator, Exhibitor, Panelist or Sidekick - join us for The Comic Industry Mixer Presented by Comic Sketch Art at 8:00 PM. The evening will feature industry heavyweight keynote speakers. Connect with budding and established professionals alike; light food and beverages will be served.
Keynote Speakers
Dal Bush and Patrick Brower (owners Challenger’s Comics + Conversation, Chicago)
Tom King (Supergirl Woman of Tomorrow)
Courtney Menard Director of Production Tiny Onion
The Pro-Mixer Industry Event Bar is Sponsored by IDW Publishing and Swag Bags are Sponsored by Yen Press.
Educator and Librarian Day
Join NYCC on Educator’s Day for a day of programming and professional development for librarians and educators, including curated panels that feature teachers, scholars, and creators. Educator’s Day is in partnership with The New York Public Library's Center for Educators and Schools and NYC Department of Education.
The New York Public Library’s Center for Educators and Schools (CES)
The New York Public Library's Center for Educators and School’s initiative is devoted to ensuring educators can make the most of the world-renowned resources of the Library. Learn more at nypl.org/ces and follow #CTLE for more in the schedule!
NYC Department of Education
The NYC DOE is committed to ensuring equitable access to high-quality education for all students, offering a diverse range of programs and services to meet the needs of its diverse student population. The department focuses on fostering academic excellence, supporting student well-being, and preparing students for college and career success.
Legal Education Opportunities
New York Comic Con, in association with Thomas A. Crowell, Esq., and the National Academy of Continuing Legal Education present Authorship in the Balance: The Clash Between Human Authorship, Artificial Intelligence, and Copyright Law, Comic Book Law 101: Foundations of Comic Book Law for a Changing Market, Practicing Comic Book Law: Drafting Contracts That Bring Comics to Life