Complex’s annual ComplexCon festival will return to Long Beach in 2023. The two-day culture-defining event will take place at the Long Beach Convention Center on Nov. 18 and 19.
The annual festival will include the return of the First We Feast Lagoon, which will bring attendees the most delicious treats. Cactus Plant Flea Market has also been tapped as the event’s Artistic Director.
Some additional events from sponsors have been announced, but further details about talent lineups, host, performers and ticket announcements for ComplexCon 2023 have not yet been revealed. Fans can sign up at complexcon.com to get notifications and exclusive news in the coming months.
What is ComplexCon?
ComplexCon, also known as the “festival of the future,” will bring together the world’s most influential brands and creative artists for an immersive two-day experience of style, sneakers, art, food, music, inspiration and so much more.
What experiences will ComplexCon host this year?
eBay, Espolòn Tequila, and Toyota have all been announced as returning sponsors. eBay says it will host an interactive experience to highlight its selection of fashion and collectable goods, while Espolòn will debut a Día de los Muertos experience that’ll include limited-edition apparel, an artist partnership, and on-site apparel customization. Within the First We Feast Lagoon, there will also be an Espolòn Cantina.
For the second year in a row, Toyota will bring its “Nudge” campaign, now with a focus on “supporting and uplifting” Historically Black Collegs and Universities (HBCUs). A two-day event at Long Beach Polytechnic High School will feature workshops, mentorship, and inspiration. The same workshops will then be brought to ComplexCon, and the brand will sponsor the official ComplexCon After Party as well.
When was ComplexCon developed?
ComplexCon was officially developed in 2016 as a partnership between Complex Networks and ReedPOP, the producers of New York’s Comic-Con and Agenda Show. Since then, the event has been held annually in November.
Who was last year’s host & performers?
Japanese graphic designer Verdy served as the host and artistic director for ComplexCon 2022. The Girls Don’t Cry and Wasted Youth founder spoke to FN about receiving the offer and how he kept innovation at the forefront of his vision.
“Being the art director of ComplexCon has always been a dream of mine, so I was super excited when I got the offer during the pandemic,” Verdy tells FN in an exclusive email interview. “Aside from bringing established legends of Japan, I wanted to offer a platform for the emerging brands that have yet to catch the spotlight they deserve.”
ComplexCon 2022 also featured a headlining performance from Nigo. The record producer was joined by Lil Uzi Vert, Kodak Black, Pusha T, Clipse, Ski Mask, and Teriyaki Boys. Last year’s panel lineup was just as star-studded including, Vashtie, Jim Jones, Jadakiss, DJ Clark Kent, Bun B and Hit-Boy.
About the Author:
Ashley Rushford is the Digital Editor for Footwear News. She writes and edits stories about celebrity style, the latest fashion trends, shoe releases and exclusive interviews. Ashley received her Bachelor’s Degree in Journalism and Media Studies from Rutgers University and has written for publications like Essence Magazine and Black Enterprise.