Long Island comic fans will once again gather in East Rockaway this weekend as HurriCon returns to Bethany Congregational Church on Saturday, May 9, 2026, bringing together comic books, artists, toys, collectibles, cosplay and one of the most community-focused conventions on Long Island.
The event runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at Bethany Congregational Church, located at 100 Main Street in East Rockaway. Admission is a $5 donation, and kids in costume get in free.
What makes HurriCon different from many other comic conventions is its origin story. The convention was created by East Rockaway resident David Donovan following the devastation caused by Hurricane Sandy. After the storm, Bethany Congregational Church became a relief center for local residents who had lost homes and possessions during the disaster.
“Homes were flooded, trees were uprooted, boats were thrown up on the mainland, and many residents were forced from their homes and lost everything,” Donovan previously said about the storm’s impact on the community.
The church gym floor suffered significant damage during the months-long relief effort, eventually leading organizers to launch HurriCon as a fundraiser to help support the church and its ongoing community mission.
Beyond comics and collectibles, HurriCon has long emphasized inclusivity and community. Donovan has said the convention was inspired by the welcoming atmosphere he experienced attending comic conventions in New York City during the 1970s.
“That is what we want to create here at HurriCon, that welcoming atmosphere; you are safe here and you are welcome here,” Donovan said.
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This year’s event will feature comic books, toys, Pokémon cards, cosplay, raffle prizes, artists, writers and food. Organizers also announced that free comics will be available during the convention courtesy of Cosmic Comics & Games.
“Thanks to our friends at Cosmic Comics & Games we have all the free comics at HurriCon this Saturday,” organizers said in a social media post. “Did you miss any? Come and get ’em!”
All profits from HurriCon, including admissions, raffle sales and vendor fees, go back into supporting Bethany Congregational Church and its local outreach efforts, including food pantry support, thrift programs and community services.
More information about the convention can be found on HurriCon’s Facebook page and Instagram page.
Photo: Hurricon Facebook Page
