The premier horror convention in Arizona is nearly upon us. Mad Monster Party returns to Glendale next weekend for its 2023 edition. Let’s get into it!

When and Where
Mad Monster Party Arizona will be located once again at the Renaissance Phoenix Glendale Hotel, located right next to the Westgate Entertainment District. The convention starts July 7 and runs through July 9 for three days of panels, shopping, photo ops, and events.

Tickets
Tickets are currently on sale for individual days or all three days for a discount. The following prices are for online purchase to pick up at the con. The Mad Monster Party side does say prices increase if you purchasing at the event. There was a VIP ticket (obviously called RIP) for $199 but those have sold out.
“SHRIEKend” Pass – Entry for all 3 days – $80 (plus any taxes + fees)
Friday entry – $35 (plus any taxes + fees)
Saturday entry – $45 (plus any taxes + fees)
Sunday entry – $35 (plus any taxes + fees)
*Children 12 and under are free with an adult

Guests
This year at Mad Monster Party will feature over 15 guests including Cassandra Peterson/Elvira, Rainn Wilson, Robert Englund, and Ross Marquand. For the entire guest line up, including which day(s) they will be at the convention, click here.

Guests will also be offering photo ops an autographs, which be purchased ahead of time (professional photo ops).

Shopping
Over 100 vendors that include local favorites such as Zia Records, Collectors Marketplace, and Bookman’s alongside vendors such as Angel City Arts, Moto’s Glass, and Wicked Moon Creations. Save your money and spend it on some great hand made merch, art, and horror collectibles!

Events
Besides panels and vendors, there are a few events you will be able to enjoy such as
Mad Monster Scaraoke – Friday at 11PM
World Film Premiere of Dylan’s New Nightmare – Friday at 11PM
Adult Costume Contest – Saturday at 7:45PM
Kids Costume Contest – Sunday at 4:30PM

Panels
Panels at Mad Monster Party are Q&A panels with its guests. The first panel of the weekend starts at Friday at 8PM with Mark Patton & Kim Myers. The full schedule which includes photo op times and events, can be viewed right here.

Hotel
The host hotel, Renaissance Phoenix Glendale Hotel, is sold out of the discounted rooms for Mad Monster however, there is an overflow hotel if you are interested in staying close to the con. The Tru by Hilton Phoenix Glendale Westgate are offering discounted rooms for $124 a night which can be accessed through the Mad Monster Party site.

Parking
No specific parking instructions on the Mad Monster site however in years past, its been my experience that you can just park in front of the Renaissance. If not, Westgate does have quite a bit of parking, you might have to do some walking but parking is usually free with plentiful options around the entertainment district.

Food
Quite a bit of food options at Westgate (which if you are not familiar with the area is directly next door to the Renaissance) which includes a few cheaper options as well as your typical sit down casual restaurants. These options include Chipotle, Buffalo Wild Wings, Jersey Mike’s, Five Guys, Shane’s Rib Shack, and Yard House to name just a few.

Within the Renaissance, there are two restaurants and in the past a cafe and convenient store if you’re looking to stay within the air conditioned hotel.