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Friday
Welcome to Opening Ceremonies, where we introduce you to the fabulous world of this weekend's convention! The wait is finally over, it's party time! Let's get the convention started! Join us as we introduce you to some of the convention's amazing guests, do a little housekeeping with rules and safety, and learn about all the fun events that will be taking place over the weekend!
Beyond “There and Back Again”: Frieren and Tolkien’s Influence on Anime
In 1954, JRR Tolkien published the greatest work of fantasy fiction of the twentieth century, Lord of the Rings. Seventy years later, Madhouse gave us an anime that seemed very much patterned on the works of Tolkien, Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End. Come on down as we compare Frieren to Tolkien’s Middle Earth Legendarium and see where the two line up, where they differ, and how Tolkien’s influence has reach of anime.
Animecon.org's Fabulous Date Auction (15+)
Are you looking for a date to the dance? A new friend to attend panels with? Or just looking to help raise money for good causes? A longstanding staple event for our conventions, the Fabulous Date Auction is a fun, interactive event where cosplayers are sold to the highest bidder - auctioned off by our Live Entertainment department! Meet new friends and help raise funds for charity in the process! We're auctioning dates to the formal ball dance that starts shortly after the date auction ends. Rules apply.
Attack on Titan, Sk8 The Infinity
Ranting, Raving, and Rolling Thunder - An hour with Greg Ayres
Recommended
Come spend an hour with voice actor Greg Ayres as he answers questions about all projects, old and new. You can be sure he’ll be talking about New projects like Saiyuki Reload Zeroin, Dark Gathering, Haikyu, Alice in Borderland, GetterRobo Arc, as well as any your favorites titles as well. After spending over two decades working in an industry that he used to be a fan of, he has been able to watch some amazing changes take place.. A fan boy till the end, he’ll also talk about the fact that while everything around him maybe changing - some things will always remain the same (for him).
Remember That Time Donkey Kong Had a Cartoon?
When people think of animated video game adaptions, many will remember the obvious ones: Mario, Zelda, Sonic, and even Captain N! However, a certain ape was apart of this list to. Come on down to this retrospective on this completely unhinged cartoon starring everyone’s favorite ape!
Legend of Zelda, Final Fantasy
Aliens, Villains & Freaks :Q&A with Barry Yandell
Recommended
Nominated for Best Supporting Actor by BTVA for his iconic role as William T. Spears in Black Butler, Barry Yandell is a well-known and very busy regional stage actor and voiceover artist based in North Texas. Most recently, Barry lends his voice talent to the characters of Conehead in Fire Force, Zelada in Cop Craft and Kodai in Yu-No. Fans will recognize his voice contributions in some of the most popular Anime series to date including Alexis Kerib in SSSS Gridman, Yoki in Full Metal Alchemist, Mr. 2 Bon Clay in One Piece, Little Demon in Soul Eater, Dwarf Shaman in Goblin Slayer, and Popuko in Pop Team Epic. Additional roles include an array of characters from Dragonball Z, Ghost in the Shell, Fairy Tail, and Attack on Titan to name a few. Please visit Barry’s actor pages at IMDB.com and behindthevoiceactors.com for a full listing of characters and upcoming new roles.
Want to pick up a sword and be sure that it will get you through the apocalypse in one piece? Learn how to tell at a glance if a blade is simply shiny, artsy, or full-on battle worthy? Come to Real Sword or Piece of Crap and follow Samurai Dan through an easy step-by-step examination of blades and prepare yourself to learn: is this sword real, or a piece of crap.
Who's That Pokemon?: Drawing Edition! Aqua Hour
Welcome to the world of Pokémon; the drawing edition! Do you think you know Pokémon? Care to put your skills to the ultimate test? Are you looking for a fun way to get free Pokémon themed merchandise? Well look no further and splash into our event, as Team Aqua has you covered! Participants will be asked to draw a random Pokémon from memory for fabulous pries and fun with your hosts Team Aqua! Whether you want to try your hand at some prizes, or cheer from your seat, everyone is welcomed to this Pokémon themed battle event!
Who's That Pokemon?: Drawing Edition! Magma Time
Welcome to the world of Pokémon; the drawing edition! Do you think you know Pokémon? Care to put your skills to the ultimate test? Are you looking for a fun way to get free Pokémon themed merchandise? Get fired up with our Team Magma hosts in this max flare competition! Participants will be asked to draw a random Pokémon from memory for fabulous pries and fun with your hosts Team Magma! Whether you want to try your hand at some prizes, or cheer from your seat, everyone is welcomed to this Pokémon themed battle event!
All About Jirai Kei
Love J-Fashion? Come learn all about Jirai Kei and its sister fashions! You'll learn everything you need to know from its history as a subculture, to what brands to shop at, and all the way up to how to edit your cute outfit photos!
Cosplay Pajama Party!
Get cozy and join us for a fun-filled cosplay pajama party! Whether you're rocking character-inspired sleepwear, a comfy onesie, or just want to chill in your favorite loungewear, this is the perfect place to relax and connect with fellow cosplayers. Enjoy games, music, and casual cosplay fun in a laid-back setting. Bring your friends, show off your creative pajama-inspired looks, and make some unforgettable memories. It's the ultimate slumber party vibe—cosplay style!
Jo Jo's Bizarre Adventure
The Unhinged World of Wrestling Cartoons and Anime
With as big as a sport as wrestling is, it’s no surprise companies tried to get into the art of animation, but was it all good or just meaningless cash grabs? Join us as we take a deep dive into the world of animated wrestling media, featuring copious amount of Scooby Doo WWE crossovers, bootleg Robot Chicken toy tie in’s, and South Park rip offs
Naruto, Delicious in Dungeon
The Amazing Digital Courthouse
The characters of the Amazing Digital Circus present a dramatic case. With twists and turns they shall prove who is guilty and innocent in this amazing battle of justice. Will the truth come to light?
FFD Presents: The Bunny Bar (21+)
When the sun sets on the con floor, the real magic begins. Join The Forbidden Fandom Dames—your favorite nerdlesque troupe—for a sultry, geek-chic escape in our exclusive 21+ lounge. Sip on cocktails, mingle with fellow anime lovers, and enjoy pop-up performances, cheeky games, and just the right amount of sparkle and sass. Whether you're here to flirt, chill, or nerd out over your latest obsession, this is your after-hours haven. Mature content, mature fans, unforgettable vibes.
Cards Against Humanity With Samurai Dan and Jillian (18+)
Recommended
Join Samurai Dan and Lady Jillian in a game of adults-only Cards Against Humanity. Try to guess what card they will pick... Will it be funny? Ironic? Overly true? Good luck!
I Can Fix Her: A Tribute to Unhinged Anime Women (18+)
What happens when your best girl isn’t exactly altogether? Depending on who you ask, that’s the best part! Come on down as we go through some of the wildest chicks of anime, weigh their strengths and failings, and see if we can’t determine who the best anime baddie of them all is.
The Sonic Degenerates: It’s Not Just Chris Chan! (18+)
Out of all fandoms, the Sonic fandom seems to be the one that attracts the most..interesting people. Many people think of Chris Chan first, but the fandom rabbit hole goes deeper than that. Join us as we take a look at the worst of the worst of the blue blur’s fans!
Saturday
My Hero Academia
Saturday: 10:00am - 10:50am •
Meetups
Clair Obscur: A Deep Dive
Clair Obscur is the indie game that has taken the world by storm. Come on down to see a bonafide expert on the game take you through the lore, characters, and the behind the scenes story of Clair Obscur.
Disability Awareness with Bluey
Many people with disabilities enjoy the Australian television show Bluey, and situations commonly encountered by people with disabilities appear in many episodes of Bluey. Listen to a Bluey fan with a disability discuss how people can utilize Bluey to teach awareness of varying forms of disabilities.
Spy x Family, One Piece
Saturday: 11:00am - 11:50am •
Meetups
A Sports Panel At My Anime Con? Tell Me Sumo-re! A Beginner's Guide to the World of Sumo Wrestling
Most people I've spoken to about sumo wrestling give me a look of confusion. "It's just big dudes in diapers pushing and slapping each other, right?" Wrong!
The world of sumo is surprisingly complex. There's clear rules they follow, a wide range of techniques to use, and let's not forget the wrestler's skill, cunning, and deception that all play a role. At the center of it all is a rich history steeped in traditions. This panel aims to shed some light on this Japanese sport and its many elements. Oh, and did I mention there will be visual demonstrations?
Cosplay Life Drawing Workshop
Welcome to artists of all skill levels! Join us for a life drawing session with a twist: Your models will be in costume! Don’t draw but want to participate? We would love to add you to our model lineup! This is an all-ages event, with each pose ranging from 15-30 second gestures to longer 5-10 minute drawings. Grab your sketchbook and see you there!
Dandadan, Fate
Saturday: 12:00pm - 12:50pm •
Meetups
Anime Improv LIVE! (13+)
Join our expert improv actors for a unique blend of rapid-fire comedy and anime-themed scenarios. Completely unscripted and interactive, this panel promises a rollercoaster of laughter and surprises, where anime characters and plots come alive in the most unexpected and amusing ways! (Formally Whose Line is it Anime?)
Kaijumania: A Japanese Monster Movie Panel
Kaiju. Some of the literal biggest movie stars to come out of Japan of all time. From Godzilla, to Ghidorah, to Mothra, to Rodan, these monsters have torn up cities and cemented themselves as superstars of film. Come on down as we go through the history of these great cinematic beasts.
Demon Slayer, Alien Stage
Saturday: 1:00pm - 1:50pm •
Meetups
It Gets Better - Anime Con Edition with Greg Ayres
Recommended
The "It Gets Better" project in response to a string of teen suicides by kids who were bullied because they were perceived to be gay. Sadly bullying is something that happens to one in four teens. In the past few years we've even seen an increase in bullying within our own fandom. Join Greg Ayres and other attendees, as we share our stories, and talk about ways we can all help and Support each other to find the light at the end of the tunnel. It really does get better.
Sewing 101! An intro to all things sewing
Have you always wanted to learn how to sew??? Well this is the panel for you!!! You’ll learn the basics of sewing with some hands on sewing experience.
Tell Us About Your OC (We won’t judge)
Do you have an OC? Rhetorical question. Of course you do, you’re at an anime convention. Do you want to let the world know about the wonderful (horrible) things you’ve done to this made-up person? Well, you’ll have to make do with just a room full of autistic weirdos. Let’s talk about your OC! How do we do it? Submit your character and be one of the lucky, randomly selected individuals to infodump about their special little guys. Keep it PG-13.
Jedi Lightsaber Class w/ Samurai Dan and Jillian
Recommended
Ever wanted to wield a lightsaber like a true Jedi? Join Samurai Dan and Jillian for an interactive, beginner-friendly class that blends Star Wars flair with real martial arts fundamentals. Learn proper stance, movement, basic strikes, and safe sparring techniques while channeling your inner Force user. Whether you’re a Padawan taking your first steps or a seasoned fan looking to level up your saber skills, this high-energy class is equal parts training and fun.
Genshin Impact, Honkai: Star Rail
Saturday: 2:00pm - 2:50pm •
Meetups
The Actor's Launch: Advanced Voice Acting W/ Barry Yandell
Recommended
Explore Barry Yandell's 7 Step, user friendly approach for voice acting.
Identity V, Frieren
Saturday: 3:00pm - 3:50pm •
Meetups
K-Pop Random Dance: Old, Uncommon, & Underrated
From old classics to underground 5th gen, we’ve curated a list full of uncommon songs rarely used in today’s random dances! Featuring artists like ALL(H)OURS, Wonder Girls, SHINee, and i-dle, you’re sure to find your niche favorite in this panel. We hope you join us for our convention debut!
It Gets Better - Anime Con Edition with Greg Ayres
Recommended
The "It Gets Better" project was created in response to a string of teen suicides in 2010 by kids who were bullied because they were perceived to be LGBTQ+. Sadly bullying is something that happens to one in four teens. In the past few years we've even seen an increase in bullying within our own fandom. So let's talk about our experiences, look for ways to resolve these conflicts, and find resources that will allow us to help and support each other, and try to find the light at the end of the tunnel.
Apothecary Diaries, Kaiju No. 8
Saturday: 4:00pm - 4:50pm •
Meetups
Cryptids, Mysteries, and Strange Happenings: The Weird Side of Reality.
There are many questions in our world that still have not been explained. Is Bigfoot real? Are UFOs from an alien civilization? Is Jimmy Hoffa buried under Giants Stadium? These questions and many many more will be up for debate as we discuss the weird side of reality. Bring your best/favorite cryptid story, ghost story, or mysterious thing that you want us to talk about!
The Cosplay Contest is our mainstage costume and cosplay competition, featuring some of the most spectacular costumes around. Have an amazing cosplay? Think it's worthy of a prize or medal? Come and show it off in our mainstage costume and cosplay competition! Contestants are judged on workmanship and performance (complete rules can be found online or at the cosplay table) as they battle for the chance to qualify for the Cosplay World Crown and a free trip to Japan! Come watch some of the coolest cosplays and performances of the weekend grace the mainstage! Advanced registration is required if you want to compete.
Hulkamania Runs Wild: A WWE Panel
The world of professional wrestling is an utterly crazy one. However, sitting atop the pile of promotions and companies, the WWE is undoubtedly the most famous. Come on down as we discuss the rise of, the stars, the most famous matches, and everything in between about this undisputed corporate champion of professional wrestling, World Wrestling Entertainment.
Kpop RDP - girlies edition
Come join us for our kpop rdp! Show off your dance moves and hang out with everyone. This mix will consist of songs from each girl group generation, including groups like AOA, Blackpink, Lesserafim, ILLIT, and Girls Generation. !!!DISCLAIMER!!! This rdp is girl group songs ONLY!
Danganronpa, Persona
Saturday: 6:00pm - 6:50pm •
Meetups
All About Oshikatsu
Do you have that one idol you love above all else? Or maybe that one anime character you can't get over? Then you'll love oshikatsu! In this panel, you'll learn all about the trending culture taking Japanese fandoms by storm, get some tips on how to collect and display merch of your fav, and find out how to plan and put together an ita bag!
Ninja Weapons of Death w/ Samurai Dan and Jillian
Recommended
Step into the shadows and explore the deadly tools of the ninja with Samurai Dan and Jillian. This action-packed panel dives into the history, techniques, and myths behind classic ninja weapons, with live demonstrations and expert commentary. Learn how these weapons were actually used, what Hollywood gets wrong, and why skill and discipline mattered more than sheer force. This panel is perfect for martial arts fans, history buffs, and anyone curious about the art of the ninja.
Fursuit, Vtubers
Saturday: 7:00pm - 7:50pm •
Meetups
Kaijumania: A Japanese Monster Movie Panel
Kaiju. Some of the literal biggest movie stars to come out of Japan of all time. From Godzilla, to Ghidorah, to Mothra, to Rodan, these monsters have torn up cities and cemented themselves as superstars of film. Come on down as we go through the history of these great cinematic beasts.
Guess That Anime: Character Edition!
Wanna test your anime knowledge? Come play Guess That Anime: Character Edition! Players will have to listen to voice lines, analyze images, and piece together hints to figure out who that character is. Whoever has the most points at the end will be declared the winner!
Jujutsu Kaisen, Baldur's Gate
Saturday: 8:00pm - 8:50pm •
Meetups
Crawling in my Crawl: An Unhinged AMV Panel (13+)
One of the most well known form of fan productions on the internet is the AMV. There is a wide spectrum of how good or bad these Anime Music Videos can be. Come on down as we look at the good, the bad, and the ugly of this unique form of video fan production.
Kpop RDP - Newest Hits
Come dance with us! We will be throwing a Random Dance Play filled with current fan favorite releases (2024-2025). Some featured groups will be Xlov, Ateez, Aespa, Seventeen, and Twice. Make sure to bring water and stay hydrated if you plan on participating. Can't wait to see you there. ^^
Anime Improv LIVE! Adult Version (18+)
Join our expert improv actors for a unique blend of rapid-fire comedy and anime-themed scenarios, but with an 18+ twist! Completely unscripted and interactive, this panel promises a rollercoaster of laughter and surprises, where anime characters and plots come alive in the most unexpected and amusing ways! (Formally Whose Line is it Anime? 18+)
Gotta Go Fast: A Bad Sonic the Hedgehog Fanfiction Panel (18+)
Sonic the Hedgehog is one of the most famous video game franchises of all time. Its fandom, while great, has also produced some of the most infamous pieces of fanfiction in history. Come on down as we read some of this material and make you cringe along the way.
Tell Us About Your OCs! (We will judge) 18+
Do you have horrible little freak? Yeah, I bet do. Come by and share your little freak with other like-minded weirdos. Let’s talk about your OC! How do we do it? Submit your character and be one of the lucky, randomly selected individuals to infodump about their special little guys. R-18 edition, tell it to us in excruciating detail.
High School of the Dead: The Plot Thiccens (18+)
In the world of ecchi action anime, few are more famous than High School of the Dead. The show is thought of to be nothing more than big boobs and gore. However, is there more? Come on down as we discuss what makes this show work and why people keep coming back for more.
Lolcow’s: Into The Userverse! (18+)
Lolcow’s, the weirdest yet most interesting people on the web, ranging from hilariously cringe to “WTF?!” Come go this panel to learn about the more wackier people and “users” on the internet, from drunken king’s of New York to alleged presidents that “just roke up”
Sunday
My Little Pony, Sailor Moon
Sunday: 11:00am - 11:50am •
Meetups
Anime Bingo!
Join us for a thrilling round of Anime Bingo, hosted by the Live Entertainment department! Whether you're an anime superfan or just discovering the world of Japanese animation, this event promises fun for everyone.
Bring your friends, your luck, and your anime spirit—prizes await those who can claim victory!
An Anime and K-Pop Recorder Show
Watch a professional recorder player as he performs anime themes, K-Pop melodies, and popular fan music, all on his recorder.
Disney
Sunday: 12:00pm - 12:50pm •
Meetups
A Link to the Panel - Let’s Talk Zelda!
If you like Legend of Zelda, this is the place for you! Come join the Live Entertainment staff to talk all things Zelda - theories, timelines, and more! (edited)
[6:46 PM]
Ever wonder about what it takes to build a fursuit? How people can see in those things? What’s a handler? What makes a good character design for a fursuit? All those questions and more will be covered in this intro to fursuits and related cosplays, including an open Q&A. So come BEAR-ing your curiosity and let’s discuss fancy wearable carpets!
Marvel, DC, Bungou Stray Dogs
Con Swap Meet
Got old stuff? Want to trade it for other old stuff? Come to the swap meet and do just that.
A large number of anime and gaming fans deal with depression on a daily basis, and two years of pandemic uncertainty just added more stress to that battle. Many of us have turned to video games, and online communities for comfort and cool down. From gamers kept company by “lets play” videos and content creators, to acting mayors of towns filled with cute talking animals - come discuss how gaming and fandom have helped you through the rough patches of your day to day adventures.
Let's Talk DC Comics!
Do you enjoy DC Comics? Would you like to talk about those comic books with other people who like comic books? This Live Entertainment Panel is the place - we’ll talk about the DCU forever! Whether it’s the OG universe, the New 52s, Rebirth, the cinematic universe, or the DCAU, this is a great panel to meet other enthusiastic fans - or other begrudging ones, we don’t judge, here.
Guess That Anime: Background Edition!
Wanna test your anime knowledge? Come play Guess That Anime: Background Edition! Backgrounds from various anime will be shown with any characters or signs blurred out, and it's up to you to figure out where you've seen that background before. Whoever has the most points at the end will be declared the winner!
You don't have to go home, but you can't stay here. It's that time when we say goodbye to the guests, artists, and new friends we've made over a fun filled convention weekend. Don't worry, there's always next year, but if you can't wait that long check out some of our other great conventions at www.animecon.org!
