【gothic eroticism】

VidCon is gothic eroticismmany things: a networking hub, a fandom free-for-all, a content factory, and the internet’s annual IRL fever dream. Each day brings moments that make you laugh, cringe, take notes or immediately start filming a reaction on TikTok.

This year's VidCon is no exception. Whether it's an appearance from a top-tier creator, a panel quote that instantly enters stan lexicon, or a wholesome fan interaction caught on camera, VidCon 2025 promises to deliver. You can expect creators meeting longtime fans, influencers speaking candidly about life online and brand-building, and more than a few moments that will have the entire Anaheim Convention Center buzzing.

From the convention floor to backstage with your fave creators, Mashable is rounding up what goes down here.

Here’s the tech creators are using at VidCon 2025 

VidConis an annual gathering for video creators, especially YouTubecreators, and this year Mashable joined the fray. Our digital culture and shopping reporters are on the ground at the Anaheim Convention Center to check out the top panels and events — and to talk to as many creators as possible.

So, what's trending among the trendsetters?

We kept our eyes peeled for gadgets, tech accessories, cameras, and cute carry-alls as we roamed the VidCon 2025 convention room floor. Keep an eye on our new In My Bag series for more influencer-approved product recommendations.

Here's a recap of some of the tech products we spottedat VidCon 2025, the simple gear Naomi Hearts uses
to create TikTok magic, and Mikey Angelo’s 3 essential tools for creating viral content.Also, here are the content creation tools creator Nicole Rafiee uses to create content for the chronically online.

VidCon hosts its first Hall of Fame awards with Rhett & Link, Tyler Oakley and more

VidCon 2025's opening ceremony honored trailblazing creators Hank Green, co-founder of VidCon and half of the Vlogbrothers channel; Rhett & Link, hosts of Good Mythical Morningand founders of Mythical Entertainment; Grace Helbig; Tyler Oakley; Joey Graceffa; Rosanna Pansino; and Smosh co-founders Anthony Padilla and Ian Hecox.

Mashable reporters were in the room as the Hall of Fame inductees took to the stage to offer thanks and insight to their longevity as creators.

Super keen VidCon attendees chant 'let us in'

Enthusiastic early bird attendees stood outside the Anaheim Convention Center doors on Thursday morning, channelling their eagerness into a simple chant: "Let us in."

• VidCon 2025: The latest updates from your favorite creators
• VidCon Tips: Writing a video script for YouTube, TikTok, and more
• Haliey Welch recorded 'Talk Tuah' in front of a live audience at VidCon. It got messy.
• Top creators, experts at VidCon 2025 share their success secrets
• VidCon 2025: YouTube experts decode the algorithm for you

Mashable senior culture reporter Christianna Silva captured the moment in a video:

'Hawk Tuah' girl Haliey Welch's live recording of 'Talk Tuah' podcast gets messy

Hailey Welch, better known as 'Hawk Tuah' girl, held a live recording of her podcast Talk Tuahwith co-host Chelsea Bradford and guest Whitney Cummings on Thursday night. Unfortunately it quickly devolved, with around half the crowd leaving before the end.

The Aphmau of it all

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More VidCon highlights from this week

Here's a look at more of what happened and tips creators shared at VidCon Thursday:

• Haliey Welch recorded a live Talk Tuahpodcast. It got messy.

• Top creators share their success secrets

• Best moments from VidCon Thursday

• YouTube experts decode the algorithm for you

• How to increase retention on your videos

• Writing a video script for YouTube, TikTok, and more

• 6 ways to measure your metrics as a creator

• Tips to protecting your privacy as a creator

• All of Mashable's coverage so far

Mashable will be live at Anaheim Convention Center this week covering VidCon 2025. Check back in the days ahead at Mashable.com, where we’ll be talking to your favorite creators, covering the latest trends, and sharing how creators are growing their followings, their influence, and making a living online.