There are many anime conventions near you that are worth attending. These conventions usually have a variety of different activities to keep you busy, including celebrity guests, panels, gaming tournaments, and much more. If you’re a fan of anime, then you don’t want to miss out on these exciting events.
What is an Anime Convention?
An anime convention is an event where fans of anime, manga and Japanese pop culture can come together to celebrate their love for the genres. The majority of attendees come dressed up as their favorite characters, and some events even host contests with cash prizes for the most imaginative cosplays.
Some anime conventions are focused primarily on vendor booths selling collectibles, memorabilia, artwork and other goods relevant to Japanese culture. Others emphasize panels and workshops with industry professionals; many include video game sessions or tabletop role-playing games with friends from around the world.
Anime conventions typically include a wide variety of events and activities, including guest panels, dances, screenings, autograph sessions and cosplay contests.
While attending an anime conventionmay seem like a simple affair at first glance – show up in your favorite costume and have fun – planning a trip can be complicated. There are dozens of anime conventions held across the country every year, each with its own unique theme and activities for participants.
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Anime conventions typically take place at convention centers or specialized hotels designed to accommodate a large influx of visitors. Some events even host elaborate functions on cruise ships.
Many anime conventions also include events outside of the host hotel or center, so travelers should take this into consideration when choosing a location to stay. Although many anime conventions are free to attend, some events charge admission for entry.
Most such anime conventions offer free passes to children and young adults under the age of 18, though there may be restrictions on activities open to young guests.
Anime Conventions Near Me
Anime conventions are a great way to meet other people who enjoy anime as much as you do. They’re also a great way to learn about new anime, meet voice actors and actresses, and purchase exclusive merchandise. Here are some anime conventions near me:
Anime Midwest
Anime Midwest is held in Rosemont, IL, Chicago’s large suburb to the north. Guests include Christina Vee (Sailor Saturn), Johnny Yong Bosch (Adam Park), and RAVE legend DJ NOBUNAGA. Anime Midwest has a strong focus on industry panels, so you can learn about your favorite shows in-depth.
Anime North
Anime North attracts over 20,000 people every year. The convention is considered to be one of the best anime conventions in Canada. It is normally held during the month of May at the Toronto Congress Center in the heart of downtown Toronto.
Anime Expo
Anime Expo has been in operation for over 20 years and is held annually at the Los Angeles Convention Center in southern California. Anime Expo attracts hundreds of thousands of people each year.
Everyone who visits Anime Expo will be able to register for events, purchase merchandise, and meet famous voice actors at their booths. There are many events that happen during the convention, including an AMV contest, fashion show, Anime Music Video World Premiere events, and concerts.
Anime Mid-Atlantic
Anime Mid-Atlantic brings thousands of fans to Hampton, Virginia, each year for a three-day convention. They hold a masquerade and a Japanese rock concert every year. This convention also offers guests from the anime industry, such as voice actors Cristina Vee and Robbie Daymond.
Anime Conji
Anime Conji is held in San Diego, CA and has an attendance of over 12,000 people annually. The convention focuses on many different genres to give fans a variety of activities that go on during the weekend.
Anime Conji also provides programming which brings together guests from the anime industry with fans at their event.
Dokidokon
Dokidokon is a smaller convention held in mid-Michigan with an attendance of around 6,000 people annually. It’s also known to have some major industry voice actors come for this event each year.
YumeCon USA
YumeCon USA is one of the newest anime conventions in the nation. It’s held in San Mateo, CA and brings over 5,000 people to northern California during its annual weekend convention.
YumeCon offers events such as an AMV contest, maid café, dance parties, concerts, karaoke contests, fashion shows, and so much more. You can visit their website or Anime-ZAP! for more information about this year’s event.
Youmacon
Youmacon is a huge convention held in the Detroit metropolitan area attracting over 20,000 people from all over the world. The convention has been around for 12 years and focuses on cosplay. They have panels from anime industry guests throughout the weekend, as well as a dance competition, video game tournaments, and a concert.
Anime ZAP!
Anime-ZAP! is held in Fort Wayne, IN and has an attendance of slightly over 4,000 people annually. Guests at the convention have included industry voice actors as well as English dub directors from anime series.
FanimeCon
FanimeCon is the largest anime convention on the west coast and is held annually in San Jose, CA. The convention host over 34,000 people from all over the world for a 4-day weekend filled with anime-related activities of every kind.
FanimeCon focuses on Japanese culture, which includes cosplay, music, fashion shows, and so much more.
How to Prepare for an Anime Convention
Anime conventions can be a lot of fun, but they can also be a lot of work to prepare for. Here are some tips to help you get ready for your next anime convention:
Plan ahead.
If you’re going to an anime convention, it’s important to plan ahead. Make sure you know when and where the convention is taking place, and make sure you have everything you need packed and ready to go.
Dress appropriately.
Anime conventions can be a bit like cosplay events, so it’s important to dress appropriately. Make sure your clothes are comfortable and appropriate for the weather and don’t forget to bring a coat or jacket if it’s cold outside.
Have fun.
Anime conventions are a great way to meet new people who share your interests, so enjoy yourself. If you follow these steps, an anime convention near me should be a lot of fun.
Side Note: For cosplay shootings or events, you can book SnowDragon via Instagram to pose as your cosplay model.