Connichi is an annual anime and manga convention that takes place in Kassel, Germany. It is the biggest convention of its kind in the country and attracts around 25,000 visitors each year.
The convention is a four-day event and features a variety of activities, including cosplay contests, exhibitors’ hall, concerts, panels and workshops. It also offers autograph sessions with famous voice actors and more.
If you’re a fan of anime and manga and want to learn more about the Connichi Convention, be sure to read this guide.
A Beginner’s Guide to Connichi
If you’re new to Connichi, or conventions in general, here are a few tips to help make your experience as enjoyable as possible:
Plan Ahead
One of the best ways to enjoy a convention is by planning ahead. Make a list of the panels and events you want to see, and figure out where they’re taking place. This will help you map out your route and plan around any conflicts you might encounter.
Cosplay
Connichi is full of people in all sorts of costumes, so don’t be shy! Whether it’s an elaborate magical girl outfit or just a shirt with your favorite character on it, there are plenty of other enthusiastic fans to share the convention with.
Be an Active Participant
Connichi offers a wide variety of exciting and interactive activities and events, so don’t just sit in the audience during panels. Get involved with the convention by attending workshops, signing up for events like AMV making contests or masquerades, or even entering into cosplay contests yourself.
Be Prepared
Find the little things that could ruin your convention experience, and try to take care of them before you even get there. Print out any tickets or passes that you might need, confirm hotel reservations ahead of time, and keep a phone charger with you at all times just in case.
Conventions can be a lot of fun, but there’s nothing worse than having to leave early because something went wrong.
Be Respectful
Most people attend conventions in costume, so don’t stare or gawk at them. If you’re not sure whether someone is dressed up or not, take a quick look around for any clues before you snap a photo or ask for an autograph.
When it comes to photos, always ask if you can take one first before photographing them, and don’t try to pose them without their consent.
Registration
If you would like to attend the convention, you will need to purchase a ticket. You can do this in person at the ticket desk in Hall 2 of Messe Kassel (Convention Center) near entrance D or online.
If you’re between 12 and 18 years old, we suggest that your parent or legal guardian accompany you when purchasing your ticket. This is to ensure that the legal age limit for the convention is not exceeded.
Accommodation
If you are staying at a hotel, it’s usually easiest if you book your reservation ahead of time, especially around Connichi time when rooms are in high demand.
There are several other ways to get around accommodation issues, though, such as staying with a friend, renting out an apartment/room on AirBnB and asking around for people who maybe have room to spare.
Timetable
If you would like to see specific events or panels, we suggest that you check the convention’s online schedule, which is updated regularly during the months before the convention. You can also pick up a printed version of the schedule at the information desk.
Tips for the Advanced Convention Attendee
If you’re an experienced convention attendee, there are many things you can do to make your time at the convention even more enjoyable. You can cosplay, attend panels and workshops, and participate in the evening activities. Here are some tips for making the most of your convention experience:
Cosplay
Cosplaying is one of the best parts of attending a convention. Not only does it make your experience more fun, but cosplay has become such a huge part of the convention culture that some cons host contests where you can show off your costume-making skills and win prizes.
Panels and Workshops
Some conventions have various panels which you can attend where experts in many different fields will discuss their area of expertise. These panels are great for learning more about something you’re interested in or meeting new people with the same interests as yours.
If there are any workshops on the schedule, you can learn new skills at these hands-on sessions.
Night Activities
A lot of conventions will have some sort of evening activity planned for the attendees, like a dance or game show. This is your chance to step out of cosplay and mingle with others in regular clothes, but it’s also a good time to hang out with your new convention friends and do something fun.
Photographs
If you have a camera, this may be the best way for you to take home memories of the convention. Many conventions will also hire photographers who can take pictures of people in cosplay, so if you find out about this ahead of time, you can get dressed up and get a professional picture of your costume too.
Bring snacks
Conventions often take place in large cities, so the food options during the convention might be limited or more expensive than at home. You can save money by bringing some snacks with you to share or just bring yourself one of your favorite drinks from home to make you feel a little more at home.
The most important part of attending the convention is that you have fun and get to spend time with people who share your interests. Make friends, dress up, and enjoy all the activities going on around you.
In Conclusion
Connichi is an annual convention that celebrates Japanese and East Asian culture. The convention is open to all ages, and there are many activities available for children as well as adults.
If you’re interested in Japanese culture or just want to have some fun surrounded by people who love anime and manga, then Connichi is the perfect event for you.
Side Note: You can get in touch with SnowDragon via Instagram to book him as your cosplayer for cosplay shootings or events.