Fresh off its December debut, TrooperCon is officially coming back. Organizers confirmed the Star Wars fan convention will return to Long Island on Sunday, September 13, 2026, once again landing at Levittown Hall.
TrooperCon made its debut in December 2025 as Long Island’s first convention dedicated exclusively to Star Wars, carving out a niche in a region already rich with pop-culture events. Rather than mixing fandoms, the event focused entirely on a galaxy far, far away, bringing screen-accurate costuming, props, photo opportunities, and family-friendly activities under one roof.
“It was our first time out running this kind of event and we all had a great time,” said Commanding Officer of the Empire City garrison of the 501st Legion Justin Weiss. “Although small, there was a nice steady flow of people throughout the day. All the feedback we have gotten was positive. People, like you, are all asking if we are going to do it again. We respond with an enthusiastic, yes!”
The inaugural TrooperCon offered what organizers described as an immersive, all-ages Star Wars experience hosted by the 501st Legion. Attendees met members of the world’s largest Star Wars costuming group, learned how screen-accurate armor is built and worn, and explored the Legion’s charitable work in local communities. The event also featured appearances by sister organizations, including Rebel Legion and Saber Guild, along with hands-on activities like armor-building demonstrations and Jedi training. Admission was free, and the event was open to all.
While this first event was intentionally modest, Weiss said organizers treated it as a learning experience and they’ve already started planning how to expand.
“We learned a lot for our first outing. We were taking notes,” he said. “Next year is going to be bigger. More sets. More props. More amazing Star Wars characters.”
From the start, TrooperCon was designed to be more than just a fan gathering. The event is rooted in the charitable mission of the 501st Legion, the international costuming group known for pairing screen-accurate Star Wars cosplay with community outreach and fundraising.
“The 501st Legion prides itself on its desire to do good and support charities and local communities,” Weiss said. “It is through our love of Star Wars that we spread this message.”
That charity-first approach helped TrooperCon stand out from larger commercial conventions, positioning it instead as a community-driven event built around fandom, accessibility, and giving back.
With a confirmed return date, a familiar venue, and plans to scale up the experience, TrooperCon’s 2026 comeback signals growing demand for Star Wars-focused events on Long Island. Additional details, including programming, participating costuming groups, and charity partners, are expected to be announced in the months ahead.
For fans who have been waiting for a convention that speaks directly to Star Wars, and only Star Wars, TrooperCon’s return marks the next episode.
Photos: Wampa photo courtesy of Justin Weiss.
