The ultimate immersive X-Men fan event, The Uncanny Experience, has announced its full slate of programming. The event returns for a third edition in the city of Minneapolis, Minnesota this July 12th-13th. Programming highlights include an in-depth discussion of The Uncanny X-Men with comic scribe Gail Simone, a spotlight on Tyler Mane (Sabretooth, X-Men, Deadpool & Wolverine), a 25th Anniversary Celebration of X-Men: Evolution, a spotlight on Benjamin Percy, a class on Magik and Magic of the Marvel Universe with Ashley Allen, and so much more.
The Uncanny Experience is an immersive event that transforms the historic Minneapolis Club into Xavier’s Institute – the home of the X-Men in comics, film, and cartoons. The event sees ticket holders attending classes on mutant culture, exploring the campus with rooms decorated as character bedrooms, unraveling clues in the Mystery in the Mansion quest, being initiated into the Hellfire Club, and celebrating the mutant community.
Find the full list of x-citing programs below:
SATURDAY, July 12th
10:45 AM – Opening Remarks
Your weekend at Xavier Institute begins here as The Uncanny Experience co-founders Chandler Poling, Dylan Carter, and Chris Riley take the stage to guide you through everything that awaits on campus. (Lecture Hall)
11:00 AM – X-Men: Evolution 25th Anniversary Reunion Panel
Class is in session at Bayville High! Celebrate 25 years of X-Men: Evolution with a reunion fans have been waiting for. For the first time ever, Meghan Black (Rogue) and Maggie Blue O’Hara (Kitty Pryde) appear together, joined by legendary character designer Steven E. Gordon, whose bold vision helped define the show’s iconic look. This panel dives into the series that turned the X-Men into teenage icons. Expect behind-the-scenes stories, character insights, and mutant-sized nostalgia! (Lecture Hall)
11:00 AM – Jack Kirby: Father of the X-Men!
Jack Kirby is well known for creating characters like the Fantastic Four, the Avengers, and Captain America that it’s easy to forget that he was the genesis of the X-Men too! Presenter Seán McArdle has been researching Jack’s history and artwork over the last couple of years and looks forward to sharing what he’s learned about this master of the medium! (Classroom)
11:00 AM – X-Music: A Requiem for Xavier’s Dream
From Ace of Base to Mozart, join us as we take a deep dive into the music that scores pivotal and iconic scenes from the X-Men films and X-Men ‘97. We also want to hear from you – what songs do you think best encapsulates some fan favorite X-characters? (Hellfire Room)
12:00 PM – Fight the Power: The X-Men As Outlaws
Austin Gorton will examine how writer Chris Claremont transformed the X-Men from traditional superheroes fighting to maintain the status quo into anti-establishment outlaws fighting to upend it, as well as the forces which halted that development, and the ways it resurfaced under later creative runs. (Lecture Hall)
12:00 PM – “Magik and Magic” with Ashley Allen
Step into the arcane side of the Marvel Universe with writer Ashley Allen, the mind behind Marvel’s Magik solo series. In this spellbinding panel, Ashley explores the role of magic across Marvel lore—how it’s used, who wields it, and what makes it such a powerful storytelling force. With a special spotlight on Illyana Rasputin, the X-Men’s sorceress supreme, this discussion dives deep into Magik’s legacy as both mutant and mystic. (Classroom)
12:00 PM – Mutant Monologues: Drama Club with Nightcrawler
The Xavier Institute Drama Club—led by the ever-expressive Nightcrawler—is on the hunt for new members who aren’t afraid to put their heart (and powers) on stage. This year’s main performance? The Mutant Monologues: a one-of-a-kind showcase where students perform short, original pieces about the awkward, funny, or unexpectedly deep ways their mutant abilities affect daily life. Think two minutes of mutant truth—costumes optional, feelings encouraged. (Hellfire Room)
12:00 PM – Cosplay Photo Shoot
Strike a pose, mutants—this is your moment in the spotlight. Join us on the front lawn of Xavier Institute for an open cosplay photo shoot with our team of professional photographers. Whether you’re in full mutant regalia, a casual cosplay, or just feeling photogenic, this is your chance to capture stunning solo portraits, epic team lineups, and unforgettable crossover moments. (Front Lawn)
1:00 PM – Jean Grey: The Heart and Soul of the X-Men
In X-Men: The Animated Series, Jean Grey was the glue that held the team together — they could all talk to her, she had a personal relationship with all of them. The presentation will chronicle Jean from 1963, when she started out as the token girl, the babe in spandex asking: “Who wants cookies?”; through her growth, strength and role through comics and the animated series of X-Men TAS and X-Men ’97. The panel is presented by Eric Lewald, Julia Lewald, Larry Houston, and Catherine Disher. (Lecture Hall)
1:00 PM – The Secret Lore of Otherworld: Classic Captain Britain Stories You’ve Never Been Told
Enter the most madcap corner of the Marvel Multiverse! Sit down with some tea and crumpets* as you join Jacob Engdahl and Christina Velvet as they guide you through a deep-dive into the bizarre history of Captain Britain, an incredibly strange and hugely influential part of X-Men history. *Tea and crumpets not provided, please do not bring them to the classroom. (Classroom)
1:00 PM – True North Book Launch
Ever want to know just what’s going on with Alpha Flight? The first volume has a lot of issues to read and remember, but don’t worry- there’s now a book made just for you! Come join Daryl Richard Lawrence as he launches a giant book all about our favorite Canadian heroes and everything they got up to in their first volume! Daryl, in conversation with Chad Anderson, will cover some highlights from writing the book, give recommendations on the best issues to read, and answer questions from the audience. Books available for purchase immediately before the program in front of the Hellfire Room.
Immediately following the book launch…
First They Came For The Mutants…
Chris Baker and Tom Flynn will explain the history of Canada’s Department H and chart its evolution from a black ops hit squad to a mind-controlling militarized organization rounding up mutants while enforcing the Canadian Super Hero Registration Act. Please note this programming block is from 1-2:50 p.m. (Hellfire Room)
2:00 PM – Spotlight on Gail Simone
In this candid conversation— moderated by Gary Scott—Gail reflects on her trailblazing career, the characters who shaped her, and what it means to finally write the X-Men on her own terms. Expect behind-the-scenes insight, writerly wisdom, and maybe a few unexpected surprises along the way. (Lecture Hall)
2:00 PM – Being Black In The X-Men Universe
The X-Men have been noted as one of the most diverse teams in comic book history. With its vast roster and various backgrounds, they come from so many groups that have felt greatly represented in the X-Men world. But Being Black In The X-Men Universe with the black characters we want to cosplay, as well as connect to ,can be limited or narrowed down to a select few. Join us in a discussion of black representation and what it means to be black in the X-Men Universe. Moderated by DaQuan Timberlake. (Classroom)
2:00 PM – Discord Meet-Up
Whether you’ve been chatting in the server since day one or you’ve just joined the conversation, this is your chance to connect face-to-face with fellow members of The Uncanny Experience Discord! Hosted by Discord members SadPonyGirl, MADmag94, Kota, RJStorm, Kayla,, and ComicKev, this meet-up is a laid-back gathering for fans, friends, and future classmates. Come say hi, share your stories, and finally put voices to the usernames.
2:00 PM – Cosplay Storytime with D’Manda Martini
Calling all young heroes, sidekicks, and super-powered story lovers! Join D’Manda Martini, dazzling drag queen and cosplay superstar, for a storytime full of laughter, wonder, and a touch of mutant magic. Dressed in fabulous cosplay, D’Manda will read stories that celebrate being yourself, embracing differences, and standing tall—no matter what powers (or outfits) you have. (Front Lawn)
3:00 PM – Tyler Mane Spotlight
Tyler Mane stormed onto the screen as the original live-action Sabretooth in X-Men (2000), unleashing the primal fury of one of the X-Men’s deadliest foes. He returned in X-Men: The Official Game (2006), and now, he’s back to settle unfinished business in Deadpool & Wolverine (2024)—bringing the hunter full circle. (Lecture Hall)
3:00 PM – GSA: Mutant & Proud
Being a mutant means being different. Being proud means owning it. Join us for Mutant & Proud, a panel that explores the intersection of LGBTQ+ identity and the X-Men universe—a franchise long celebrated as a reflection of queer experience, resilience, and found family. This conversation will feature creators, fans, and community voices sharing what it means to live boldly, love fully, and find your place—whether you’re out in the world or still figuring things out. Expect heartfelt stories, shared laughter, and a whole lot of pride. (Classroom)
3:00 PM – An Uncanny Art Class
Whether you want to doodle the Dark Phoenix, sketch a Sabretooth, or draw the most extra Sinister ever, stop by the art room! This class will be taught for beginner students, but mutants with all skill levels are welcomed! Attendees will be guided step-by-step through the process of drawing dynamic busts of characters. We’ll use Cyclops and Jitter as demo subjects to explore character construction, posing, and expression. If participants prefer to draw their own character or favorite mutant, that’s encouraged too! The goal is to have fun, build drawing confidence, and leave with one or two finished sketches. (Student Hall)
3:00 PM – Horticulture Class with Storm
Join Ororo Munroe on the outdoor patio for a peaceful, hands-on session exploring the art of plant care. This class is more than watering and sunlight—it’s about presence, intention, and harmony with the natural world. Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just learning to keep a cactus alive, you’ll walk away grounded, inspired, and maybe a little greener at heart. (Front Lawn – Side Patio)
4:00 PM – Theoretical Biology of the Wolverines
Join Al (@blueberrywolverine) for a lively discussion about the real world science behind the Sniktfam! From healing factors to pheromones, come explore the biology behind one of mutantkind’s most iconic families! Dive into the theoretical biology of the Wolverines, including Romulus, Sabretooth, Logan, Akihiro, Laura, and Gabby. (Classroom)
4:30 PM – Poolverine: The Hate We Love To See
Dean D’Monic leads you through a passionate panel about the shipped pairing of Logan Howlett and Wade Wilson from the blockbuster movie, “Deadpool & Wolverine”. Touching on a variety of topics ranging from niche fandoms, queer commandeering of characters and how movies can now serve as a pathway to the original source materials of the comics books for new fans, Dean D’Monic will chronicle his observations of the rise and growth of the Poolverine fandom via its fanfictions, artwork and where the fans go after they’ve become hooked on the characters and yearn for more content and stories. (Classroom)
4:00 PM – House Xavier Pep Rally
House Xavier is where strength meets purpose. Led by Jean Grey, House Xavier carries the legacy of the Institute’s mission forward—honoring the dream of unity, compassion, and a better world for all mutants. We are the calm in the storm, the steady hand in chaos, and the voice that rises when silence is no longer an option. (Student Hall)
4:00 PM – House Pryde Pep Rally
House Pryde is for the thinkers, the builders, and the boundary-pushers. Founded by Kitty Pryde, this House values intelligence, innovation, and integrity above all else. We don’t follow the path—we debug it, redesign it, and make it better. Want in? You’ll need to find Placebo, our House Recruiter, during school hours on Saturday. He’ll test your mind and your mutant mettle. Impress him, and you’ll earn a House Pryde badge ribbon—your key to the House Pep Rally. (Lecture Hall)
4:00 PM – House Hellfire Pep Rally
Power is not granted—it’s claimed. House Hellfire is for the bold, the brilliant, and the beautifully unbothered. Founded by Emma Frost, this House celebrates strategy, sophistication, and unapologetic ambition. Influence isn’t something we wait for. We become it. (Hellfire Room)
4:00 PM – House Morlock Pep Rally
House Morlock is for the outsiders—the ones who’ve been overlooked, underestimated, or cast aside. Founded by Callisto, this House honors resilience, solidarity, and loyalty above all else. We don’t wear masks. We wear scars. If you think you’ve got the grit to stand with us, seek out Marble, our House Recruiter, during school hours on Saturday. He won’t make it easy. Convince him you belong, and you’ll earn your House Morlock badge ribbon—your only way into the Morlock Pep Rally. (Morlock Tunnels)
SUNDAY, July 13th:
9:30 AM – VIP Breakfast with X-Men: Evolution
(VIP & OMEGA STUDENTS ONLY) Start your Sunday with an unforgettable morning at Xavier Institute. At 9:30 AM in the Student Hall, VIP and Omega ticket holders are invited to an exclusive breakfast experience with the cast and creators of X-Men: Evolution. Joining the event are director and character designer Steven E. Gordon, along with voice actors Meghan Black, who portrayed Rogue, and Maggie Blue O’Hara, the voice of Kitty Pryde. As you enjoy breakfast, you’ll have the opportunity to chat with the guests, hear behind-the-scenes stories, and capture personal photo moments in a relaxed, intimate setting. (Student Hall)
10:00 AM – Psionic Breath-work & Meditation
Being a Mutant is stressful! Fighting for the right to exist in this world takes its toll on the psyche. Elspeth Braddock is joining us from Earth-13059 to help us learn how to calm our minds and bodies through the focused totality of breath-work, meditation, and vagus nerve stimulation. (Front Lawn)
10:30 AM – A Royal Court Appointment with Deathbird
Denizens and Mutants may join Deathbird to air their concerns of the Shi’Ar Empire and mutantkind alike. Engage in discourse, ask your questions, and take a photo with Deathbird (portrayed by Jordan Blaza Olsen) on the throne. (Hellfire Room)
11:00AM – Spotlight on Benjamin Percy
Join us for a deep-dive conversation with the acclaimed novelist and comic book writer behind some of the most brutal, thought-provoking, and action-packed X-Men stories of the modern era. As the driving force behind Wolverine, X-Force, and Weapons of Vengeance, Percy has redefined Logan’s voice—gritty, haunted, and always dangerous—while expanding the darker, more tactical side of Krakoa’s mutant agenda. (Lecture Hall)
11:00 AM – This is for the Muties
This panel seeks to explore the culture and impact of the latest mutant nations and how they mirror real-life marginalized spaces (even in their destruction/abandonment). Taught by Tiffie Starchild and Omar Holmon of Black Nerd Problem, the foundation of the class explores Krakoa/Arakko, their cultures, why they were necessary, Jonathan Hickman’s 3-Act Plan, and the X-Men post-Krakoa. (Classroom)
11:30 AM – Cosplay Contest Prejudging
Before you hit the runway, step into the opulent chambers of the Hellfire Club for cosplay prejudging. This is your chance to meet the contest judges face-to-face, showcase the details of your costume up close, and share the story behind your creation. Prejudging is anticipated to take up to 90 minutes. (Hellfire Room)
11:00 AM – Institute House Group Photos
Calling members of House Xavier, House Hellfire, House Pryde, and House Morlock. Join your fellow house mates in a seated portrait to immortalize your place at Xavier Institute. (Student Hall)
12:00 PM – X-Gaymes
Homo Superior Podcast is back with their hit game show from the past two years’ Uncanny Experiences with The X-Gaymes: Games of Futures’ Past! Will there be participation? Yes! Will there be special guests? Yes! Will there be prizes? You know it! Will audience members have the chance to vindicate their most fabulous opinions about the X-Men – I don’t know, does a mall babe eat chili fries?! (Lecture Hall)
12:00 PM – Model UX-Men
Crisis Alert! The X-Men need your help! Become a member of an X-Team and work together with fellow mutants to brainstorm solutions. This interactive class will require quick thinking, collaboration, and may\be a little villainy. Join Professors Pryde & Summers for Model UN, X-Men styles. Students will be divided into groups and assigned X-Teams. The teams will be presented with scenarios and crisis situations and given time to brainstorm how their specific powers sets and tactical skills could be used to solve the problem. There will be a number of rounds and each team will have an opportunity to present their strategies to the group as we go. Out of the box thinking, mutant circuits, and questionable decisions welcome. See you in class! (Classroom)
1:00 PM – Graymalkin Lane Presents: Mutant Fashion Review!
Chad Anderson, host of the Graymalkin Lane Podcast, is back to celebrate the Dos and Donts of Mutant Fashion! Joined by three hilarious guests on the panel, Chad will be presenting looks from all over the X-Men universe! Come share your opinions on looks that are iconic, ridiculous, and just plain camp! Each look gets a SNIKT or a KIKT! You will laugh harder at this panel than anything else all weekend! (Lecture Hall)
1:00 PM – Chemistry 101: X-Treme Attraction
What happens when love, power, and polycules collide? Join Jean Grey (Michelle Waffle) and her TA (Justin Otero) for a delightfully messy, psychic-fueled lecture on romance across the mutant spectrum. Expect iconic couples, surprise compatibility tests, and a whole lot of gossip under the guise of science. (Classroom)
1:00 PM – Physical Education with Wolverine
Wolverine is taking the lead on this outdoor training session, and there’s no hiding behind a hologram. Held on the front lawn of Xavier Institute, this physical education class pushes students to test their limits the old-fashioned way—with grit, instinct, and maybe a little yelling. (Front Lawn)
2:00 PM – Cosplay Contest
Join us for the official Cosplay Contest at The Uncanny Experience—an X-traordinary showcase of skill, imagination, and mutant-inspired fashion. Whether you’re repping your favorite hero, villain, or original design, this is your moment to shine. (Lecture Hall)
2:00 PM – Celebrating Peter David’s X-Factor
Peter David wrote over one hundred issues of X-Factor in three different decades! This panel will celebrate Peter’s writing some of our favorite mutants and reflect on the incredible legacy he left behind, including key moments and the stories we recommend everyone take a look at. Moderated by Daryl Richard Lawrence and Phillip Lundquist of the X-Factor Files podcast, students will be able to walk away from this panel with a renewed appreciation of everything Peter David gave to us fans. (Classroom)
2:00 PM – Learn Your X-Men Horoscope
What does your birth month X-Men issue say about your cosmic destiny? In this fun, mind-bending session, discover how your birth date aligns with a classic X-Men comic and what it reveals about your personality, strengths, and future. One lucky participant will even have their X-Men Horoscope decoded live! (Student Hall)
3:00 PM – Astral Plan Mission with Psylocke
The mind is a battlefield—and it’s time to step inside. Join Psylocke for an immersive, guided journey into the Astral Plane. This interactive experience blends imagination, intuition, and psychic storytelling as you navigate a realm beyond the physical world. (Hellfire Room)
3:00 PM – Savage Land 101: From Amphibius to Zabu
In the middle of Antarctica, there is a world that time forgot! Maintained by the machines of the Nuwali, this land is filled with hidden civilizations, ancient tribes, and magic artifacts, in a place that’s a little more… SAVAGE! Professor Chad Anderson, of the Graymalkin Lane podcast, is here to teach you everything you need to know about safe adventures in the Savage Land! Learn how to escape the Ultron T-Rex! Find out how to style shredded clothing into fashionable bikinis! Navigate small talk with Ka-Zar around a campfire! You’ll be throwing spears at Sauron in no time! (Classroom)
3:00 PM – The Horrors Persist, But So Do We
Demon possessions, deep space tension, and hell dimensions, oh my! The X-Men are no strangers to the bone-chilling, spine-tingling, terrifying and thrilling. Join multiple possession survivor and one-time vampire hunter Kate Pryde (@abbeyfrisco) around the campfire as she puts the ‘shadow’ back in Shadowcat and takes you through an interactive analysis of X-Men horror tropes, themes, and what they mean. (Student Hall)
4:00 PM – Graduation Ceremony
The halls of Xavier Institute have challenged you, changed you, and helped you grow into the mutant you were meant to be. Now, it’s time to cross the threshold from student to graduate. Join your fellow classmates for a special Graduation Ceremony, where you’ll be recognized for completing your training and taking your place among the next generation of X-Men. Every graduating student will receive a personalized diploma, signed by acclaimed writer Gail Simone, as a keepsake of their journey. (Lecture Hall)
Visit http://www.theuncannyexperience.com for the most up to date information on the event and programming.
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