Live Events: Fan Panels List
3DS Streetpass Plaza
Hosted by: Yasmin
Friday Salon 5/6 ; 11:30 AM
AP
Streetpass? in 2025? More likely than you think!
A (not quite) Brief Crash Course on the Touhou Project
Hosted by: Saishoo
Sunday Salon 15/16 ; 10 AM
AP
Have you ever wondered what the origin of several songs in older videos may be? Well, chances are, they're from Touhou! If you haven't heard of Touhou before and are curious to learn more, this panel is the one for you! I'll be explaining what Touhou is, the fandom surrounding it, and then we'll end it off with a short little trivia game (with free rewards!!!) Even if you know what Touhou is, you can still come by just to chill and hang out! I'm passionate about the series, and I would love to share it with others.
A Deep Dive Into Futuristic Idol Games and Media!
Hosted by: Fright
Sunday Salon 15/16 ; 11:30 AM
AP
Are you an idol media fan getting bored of slice of life? This deep dive will introduce you to the world of Hypnosis Mic, Project Sekai: Colorful Stage, 18Trip, and Paradox live with demos and interactive gameplay!
A Practical Guide To Competitive Cosplay
Hosted by: Jordan
Friday Salon 5/6 ; 4 PM
14P
This panel will demystify the entire process of cosplay competitions, covering everything from building your costume to performing on stage. Our panelists are experienced competitors and judges with a range of expertise in sewing, prop-making, armor work, and stage presentation. We'll share behind-the-scenes tips on how to make your costume contest-ready, how to document your work for judging, and how to prepare mentally and physically for competition day.
Abridging 101, Voice Acting, Writing, and More!
Hosted by: Gregory
Saturday Salon 15/16 ; 10:30 AM
14P
Come hang out and learn what goes into making an Abridged series, from writing, directing, recording space, and voice-over with the crew of PhatDogStudios! Best known for their Shield Hero, Solo Leveling, and Log Horizon parodies.
Ace Attorney Fan Panel
Hosted by: Brendan
Sunday Salon 12 ; 12 PM
14P
A fan panel dedicated to the Ace Attorney series with lots of fun discussion as well as trivia and prizes!
Adapting Patterns for Cosplay
Hosted by: Mack
Sunday Salon 12 ; 3 PM
AP
Ever wanted to cosplay someone with a 'unique' outfit? Come learn how basic sewing patterns can be adjusted to create your dream outfits! Learn the basics of pattern customization and ask questions from an experienced cosplayer.
Alien Stage: A Musical Competition
Hosted by: Aycil
Saturday Salon 11 ; 7 PM
14P
Singing to survive, or to succumb? Come learn about Alien Stage! A musical project created by VIVINOS centered around that very concept! Listen to the music, hear about the series in full; witness the unfolding of an ill-fated competition.
All-Out-Tokusatsu
Hosted by: Ken Y.
Saturday Salon 15/16 ; 4:30 PM
14P
What would the Japanese tokusatsu genre be like as anime? Come by to learn which tokusatsu movie and TV franchises (e.g. Godzilla, Ultraman, and more) have turned their actors in rubber suits into anime! Recent and long-time fans of the genre are welcome to find and talk about a (new) favourite franchise!
Am I Addicted to Senpai? Boundaries and Balance in Fandom Culture
Hosted by: Michaela
Saturday Salon 13/14 ; 4 PM
AP
Have you ever wondered, "am I addicted to senpai?" Daydreaming about meeting favorite anime characters, wishing you'd get isekai'd, and spending all your time and energy on fandoms, yare yare! We can get super into our interests, but at what point do we go from being devoted fans to maybe a bit too fixated?
As a psychologist and lifelong otaku, I want to explore the fine line between a hobby and something taking over our lives. In this information and discussion panel, we'll find out the differences between addictions and obsessions, spot the warning signs of things getting unbalanced, and learn how to set healthy boundaries, without losing what makes fandom great.
Douzo, come find out how to keep the passion kawaii, not kowai!
Anikurathon -4th stage-
Hosted by: Jason
Saturday Salon 10 ; 11:30 AM
14P
Come join us as we bring the anikura experience again to you with our DJs and VJ spinning non-stop and original tracks from anime, idols, seiyuus, and visual novels!
Anime Gems with Unique Art Styles
Hosted by: Cossette
Friday Salon 13/14 ; 12:30 PM
AP
Let's explore anime that take illustrative creative liberties to bring us something visually captivating and memorable (Jojo's Bizarre Adventure is not the only anime that flexes its unique art style muscles)!
Anime Line Dancing 101
Hosted by: Samantha
Saturday Salon 10 ; 10 AM
AP
Howdy con-goers! Do you struggle to dance when put on the spot at a party? Do you yearn to be able to step in time to your favourite anime tunes? And more importantly, are you looking to have a rootin', tootin', good time? If so, then make your way down to Anime Line Dancing 101! We'll teach you everything you need to know to show off at any dancing event. We hope to see y'all there!
Anime Name Game
Hosted by: Michael
Friday Salon 12 ; 7 PM
AP
Returning once again! Bring a partner and go head to head with another pair to test your anime knowledge in this fast paced name guessing game!
Anime Name That Tune- Rounds
Hosted by: Launa
Saturday Salon 12 ; 4 PM
AP
Tired of the same old anime name that tune! Join us as you compete with your friends in teams to see who knows anime music, the best in a variety of different rounds, including some DJ style live mashups
Anime Studios 101 + Trivia
Hosted by: CC
Saturday Salon 13/14 ; 7 PM
AP
Learn about anime studios and genre facts while also testing your own knowledge.
AO3 Stats Guess That Fandom
Hosted by: CC
Sunday Salon 13/14 ; 3:30 PM
MP
"Guess that fandom" from a list of tags, ships, and other statistics from the popular fan fiction site, Archive Of Our Own (AO3). Bring your phone; we're playing KAHOOT!
Ark Ship Eden – A Live Puzzle Experience
Hosted by: Matt
Friday Salon 4 ; 9:30 PM
AP
With a massive meteor hurtling towards Earth, humanity's only hope lies with Novara Corp's flagship project, Ark Ship Eden. Join us for a presentation to learn more about the Ark, promising safety and survival, and possibly discover some secrets that were never meant to be uncovered.
Ark Ship Eden is a live puzzle experience where YOU become part of the story. Solve cryptic clues, decode messages and see what secrets you can discover behind the mysterious Novara Corp. Bring a pencil/pen, note paper, your phone and your sharpest wits (Extra pencils will be provided but you are on your own for wits)
Ball Jointed Doll Meetup
Hosted by: Jenna
Sunday Salon 5/6 ; 10:30 AM
AP
Do you collect, or are you interested in learning about Ball Jointed Dolls? Look no further than this meetup! Everyone with anime style/anime inspired dolls (whether resin or vinyl) is encouraged to bring one (or a few!). We also welcome anyone completely new to the hobby who is interested in learning about, or is just wanting to view some amazing collectible and highly-customizable pieces of art!
So please, don’t be shy! Come see some cute and cool dolls, and have a chat with some of us friendly collectors! We’d love to have you.
Battle of the Hoyo Games
Hosted by: Jasmine
Saturday Salon 4 ; 7:30 PM
14P
Battle of the Hoyo Games, who will win? HSR, ZZZ and Genshin have taken over the world and our hearts but... which is the best game?
Best of Japanese Pop Concert by Affinity Accord
Hosted by: Cameron
Saturday Entertainment Stage Hall C ; 12 PM
AP
A performance of J-pop and City-pop tunes from Official Hige Dandism, Tatsuro Yamashita, Gen Hoshino and various other Japanese artists. A mixture of songs from anime and Affinity Accord's personal favourites, showcasing the best artists from Japan.
Blood, Guts, and Gore: The Darker Side of Anime
Hosted by: Cossette
Saturday Salon 13/14 ; 5:30 PM
MP
Anyone who ever said the phrase “anime is just for kids” hasn’t seen some of the most violent (and admittedly some of the best) series in anime history.
CGI Improv: Fox Kids Edition
Hosted by: Jon
Friday Salon 8/9 ; 12 PM
14P
Improvised sketch and comedy show that is fast of pace and thicc of laugh, accessible to general audiences! This team has been pumping out chuckles since before they put the Brotherhood in Alchemist. Now they're bringing their formula to Animethon for an improvised comedy fusion like no other! A whole show based on your ideas! It's like if your AO³ account was something you could show your friends!
Chadimus Presents: Let's Make a Shonen Battle Arc!
Hosted by: Chadimus
Friday Salon 11 ; 7 PM
14P
Do you want to make the GREATEST Shonen Battle Arc of ALL TIME? Come to this amazing story creation panel, hosted by Chadimus and Jakob Dawson, and make PEAK FICTION with everyone in the audience, and see it performed live!
Chaldea Master Summit (FGO)
Hosted by: Steven
Friday Salon 15/16 ; 8:30 PM
14P
Welcome to Chaldea, Master! A panel discussing the hit mobile game, Fate/Grand Order, along with other associated media. Games, anime, manga, visual novels, light novels, and anything else in this gigantic web we call the Nasuverse!
Connecting the Borders: A ClariS Fan Panel
Hosted by: Paul
Saturday Salon 13/14 ; 2:30 PM
AP
Over the last 15 years, ClariS has created a lasting impact within the Japanese music scene and to this day still remains a mainstay name within the industry. Join us for a dive into the group's history, music, and members! We will end the panel with a fun song quiz and trivia for any other dedicated ClariSTs out there!
Convention Wholesome Stories
Hosted by: Padgett
Saturday Salon 15/16 ; 6 PM
14P
You've heard of Convention horror stories, well this is convention WHOLESOME stories! A panel for con regulars to come and share their favourite heart-warming stories. Engagements, chance meetings, great memories, it's all welcome here!
Cosplay Ears: Furry Edition
Hosted by: Max
Friday Salon 5/6 ; 1 PM
AP
Have you ever wanted to cosplay your favorite cat girl? This panel will teach you everything you need to know to make the purrrfect pair of cat ears! From faux fur to hot glue, you'll learn where to shop and how to assemble ears for your next project.
Cosplay How?
Hosted by: Alex
Friday Salon 15/16 ; 5:30 PM
AP
Want to Cosplay but aren't sure where to start? Have a child or friend that really wants to dress up and you need help figuring out whats up? Stop by and I'll give you the basics of cosplay: the Who, What, Where, When, Why, and Hows. There will also be a printout to help you plan your costume.
Cosplay Runway Extravaganza!
Peter
Friday Salon 10 ; 3 PM
AP
Time to hit the runway— The Cosplay Runway Extravaganza! is a no-pressure showcase where passion and cosplay take center stage. Whether your look is handmade, thrifted, or wildly improvised, all are welcome to strut their stuff! Expect big cheers, bold outfits, and a whole lot of sparkle. Whether you're walking the runway or hyping up the crowd, this is your time to shine!
Cozy Gaming & You!
Hosted by: Kailey
Sunday Salon 15/16 ; 1 PM
AP
Are you a fan of games that make you feel warm and fuzzy inside? Or perhaps one that makes you stressed about your crops? Then come join us for an exciting panel about cozy gaming! There are discussions to be had, infographics to look at, and some fun games centered around your favourite cozy games to play! The only thing missing from this Cozy Gaming panel is you!
Danmei 101
Hosted by: Savannah
Friday Salon 12 ; 4 PM
14P
Are you curious to know more about the sensation that's sweeping the nation known as danmei? Have you never heard of danmei before but are curious to know what it's all about? Or maybe you just need a break from the convention and would like a random lady to talk to you for a bit with no audience participation required? If you said yes to any of these questions, then come check out this informative panel on the history and current state of Danmei literature in the Western world as told by an enthusiastic fan.
Danmei Read-Along
Hosted by: Soup
Friday Salon 11 ; 8:30 PM
MP
Take a glimpse into how enchanting the danmei world is with us! Join us as we choose altogether some exciting, tearjerking & spicy danmei chapters to be read out loud. From spicy danmei novels to interesting danmei manhwas and more!!
Disney Sing Along
Hosted by: Mouse
Saturday Salon 8/9 ; 10:30 AM
AP
I know you~ I sang with you once upon a con~ Come join us yet again for the return of the Disney Sing Along, where you can scream-sing and dance to your heart's content to your favourite Disney songs!
Draw That Pokémon! Remix Edition
Hosted by: Andrea
Sunday Salon 5/6 ; 1:30 PM
AP
Last year we asked you to draw Pokémon from memory. We realized that was hard even for us, so this year we are giving our drawers instructions on how to draw Pokémon! (We do not claim they will be good instructions) White boards and markers will be provided for everyone to play along! Come join us for some giggles and goofs.
Dungeon Meshi: Motivation for Healthy Cooking
Hosted by: Yasmin
Saturday Salon 8/9; 7:30 PM
AP
Delicious meals in my kitchen? Take my hand and let's learn to cook with inspiration from the dungeon!
DUNMESHI: Would you eat that?
Hosted by: Aycil
Friday Salon 12 ; 9 PM
AP
Basilisks, Kelpies, Krakens & Minotaurs - monsters once foes, now food! Come witness the uniquely despicable yet delightful dishes from Delicious in Dungeon, from golem-grown vegetables to living armour mollusks, pick your side and debate or defend these dishes! Based on your argument, the audience decides: Are these dishes truly 'delicious?'
Face Casting for Beginners
Hosted by: Mars
Saturday Salon 15/16 ; 7:30 PM
AP
Learn how to make a cast of your own face, which will help you in patterning masks, tiaras, headpieces, and more for years to come! Beginner friendly.
Fanfiction Crash Course: Creating Something New Using Something Old
Hosted by: Ajax
Saturday Salon 5/6 ; 10:30 AM
14P
Are you an avid fanfiction reader or writer who wants to learn more about fanfiction, tropes, its rich history, and the social impacts that it's had? Have you been trying to get more creative but feel stuck? Are you tired of seeing similar stories and tropes, and are you searching for something new? Then this panel is for you! Come join like-minded fans for a panel of thought-provoking questions, brainstorming, refining a character, or creating a new one. Embrace thinking outside the box, getting creative, and learning from the past!
Fantasy to Reality: 3D Magic for Cosplay Photos
Hosted by: Blue
Sunday Salon 11 ; 2 PM
14P
Want your cosplay photos to look like they're straight out of your favorite anime, game, or movie? This panel will show you how to use free 3D software like Blender to create immersive backgrounds that match your character's world. Whether you're a cosplayer or photographer, you'll learn how to integrate 3D environments into your photos, no prior experience needed! From simple setups to full scene compositions, this beginner-friendly session will give you the tools to take your cosplay edits to the next level. Step beyond real-world locations and transform your photos into cinematic masterpieces!
Hololive: Church of Godchama IV
Hosted by: Dee
Friday Salon 11 ; 10 PM
MP
Once again, the church of GodChama is in procession! So come forth, devout holobros and raise your penlight high for the time has come to hear the gospel of our beloved idols! ... if you dare >:3
Hooked on Cosplay: A Guide to Crocheting your Way into the Cosplay World
Hosted by: General Chaos Cosplays and Gingemakesthings
Sunday Salon 5/6 ; 3 PM
AP
Crochet is a fairly popular crafting technique that isn't often used in cosplay, but it absolutely could be!!
Welcome to a general overview of crochet and how you can use it in your cosplay. From using it as an alternate medium to sewing, to making embellishments and trims, this technique can be used in all types of cosplay!
Hoyo After Dark
Hosted by: Karmun
Friday Salon 8/9 ; 9:30 PM
MP
Welcome back to Hoyo After Dark! Come play games with your favourite characters from across the star system!
Husbando Hunger Games: May the Thirst Be Ever in Your Favor
Hosted by: Delulu Committee
Saturday Salon 11 ; 9 PM
14P
Is your husbando really tough enough to survive the Husbando Hunger Games?! Watch 2D men throw down for your vote: no tea, all shade. Roast hard, defend louder, and vote like your pixel man’s life depends on it!!! (because it does)
I Found it in the Trash: A Guide to Prop Weathering
Hosted by: Pocket Sized Cosplay
Friday Salon 13/14 ; 8 PM
AP
Need to weather up that nerf gun for your next con or get a beautiful rust finish on your EVA blade? Welcome to weathering! Join Pocket as they guide you through the steps to painting that prop, from start to finish!
Indie Animation: How to make your own independent animation
Hosted by: Damian
Friday Salon 5/6 ; 7 PM
AP
Ever wanted to make our own animation? Perhaps start working on a concept for your own anime/show. We can guide you through the pipeline of making your own indie animation! The challenges and how to prepare! Make sure to bring a notepad!
Intro to J-Fashion: All are Welcome!
Hosted by: Jen
Friday Salon 15/16 ; 11:30 AM
AP
Are you thinking about getting into Japanese Street Fashion? Are you looking for style information, or a place to start on your own personal journey? Then this panel is for you! Not only will various sub-styles of J-Fashion be introduced, but J-Fashion and its ever-evolving community-based nature will be discussed as well! No matter who you are, you are always welcome to express yourself in the world of J-Fashion!
Introduction to Anime Card Games
Hosted by: Jeremy
Saturday Salon 5/6 ; 1:30 PM
AP
Do you love Card Games? Do you love Anime? If you answered "yes" to either or both of those questions, we welcome you! We will be introducing you to Bushiroad's 3 main Anime themed card games: Weiss Schwarz, Cardfight Vanguard, and Shadowverse Evolve! Come on in to learn about all 3 of these awesome games, as well as win some amazing prizes!
Introduction to Origami
Hosted by: Charlie
Saturday Salon 5/6 ; 5 PM
AP
Want to learn about the Art of Origami? Come to this workshop for a hands-on learning experience!
Is It Anime?!
Hosted by: Arianna
Friday Salon 12 ; 10:30 PM
14P
Welcome to ‘Is It Anime?’, the panel where everything is made up and the points don’t matter! From Avatar: The Last Airbender to Corey in the House we will explore all manner of media, domestic or abroad, to decisively decide if your favorite movies and shows are truly anime. We will be asking the crowd for audience participation so be ready to cheer or jeer based on how we categorize your favourites! Select members of the audience that debate with us may earn the title of Anime Master Debaters! Join in and help us discover: Is It Anime?
Support Local Anime ;D
Bionix and Fox Kids
Itabag Basics and Beyond!
Hosted by: Ema
Friday Salon 5/6 ; 5:30 PM
AP
Do you have too much merchandise of your favourite character, but no way to show it off? Have you ever wondered how to create those fancy bags everyone at cons walks around with? If the answer to either of those questions is yes, come join us in the wonderful (and only sometimes painful) world of Itabags! This panel will go over a brief history, bag and merch acquisition, bag construction, decor, and more! Whether you're a total beginner, or an expert looking for new inspo, everyone is welcome!
J-Fashion Fashion Show
Hosted by: Edmonton EGL community
Saturday Salon 8/9 ; 3 PM
AP
Do you love J-Fashion? In this J-Fashion Fashion Show we will show off many different J-Fashions including members of the Edmonton EGL Community. Come see some cool fashion and stay to learn more about J-fashion and Lolita at the end with a Q&A at the end!
Journey to Amphoreus: A Honkai Star Rail Experience
Hosted by: Trailblazers
Sunday Salon 10 ; 3:30 PM
14P
Take the journey to Amphoreus! A new prophecy is upon us, but the Chrysos Heirs need help deciphering it. Join us for 90 minutes of themed minigames that will bring thrill, laughter, and if you're lucky enough, hints to solve the prophecy, and win prizes along the way.
Just Dance: Together
Hosted by: Mouse
Friday Salon 10 ; 5:30 PM
14P
Backstreet's back, ALRIGHT! ...Of course by backstreet, I mean Just Dance. Join me once again for your favourite event-- a crazy fun, super sweaty, even more exhausting hour of dance!
K-Pop 1 vs 100!
Hosted by: Paul
Friday Salon 10 ; 12:30 PM
AP
Are you a multi-stan? Think you know everything about K-Pop? Well come prove yourself by beating the mob at our K-Pop version of the game show "1 vs 100"!
K-Pop Games
Hosted by: Sarah
Friday Salon 12; 5:30 PM
AP
How well do you know your favorite K-Pop groups? Whether you are new to K-Pop or a long time fan, everyone is welcome! Come test your knowledge and have a chance to win fun prizes!
K-Pop Random Dance
Hosted By: Mimyu
Friday Salon 10 ; 7:30 PM
14P
Come dance to a variety of K-pop in a Random Dance Play with Mimyu Dance
Korean Martial Arts Through History
Hosted by: Ryan
Saturday Salon 13/14 ; 8:30 PM
AP
Korea has a deep and fascinating martial history. Learn about the roots of Korean martial arts and how they changed through history
Kyudo Demo and Presentation
Hosted by: Héloïse
Sunday Salon 10 ; 1:30 PM
AP
Come and (re)discover Kyudo, the traditional art of Japanese archery, through this presentation and demo by the Capital Region Archery Club of Edmonton.
LADS: Kitty Cards Tournament!
Hosted by: Michois.cos
Saturday Salon 5/6 ; 8 PM
14P
Join MC and Luke for a (totally not onychinus-sponsored) Kitty Cards Tournament!!! For all Love and Deepspace fans to enjoy, competing with one another to become the Kitty Card Champion. Who will take the prize and glory home, and who will face defeat.
Lip Sync For Your Life
Hosted by: Stacey
Sunday Salon 8/9 ; 12:30 PM
AP
Think you've got what it takes to Lip Sync for Your Life? We'll be the judge of that.
Love and Deep Space: Lore & Protocores
Hosted by: Catherine
Sunday Salon 8/9 ; 11 AM
14P
You've seen the memes; you've seen the TikToks. Love and Deepspace seems to be everywhere! If you've ever wondered about the mobile game that's taken over so many hearts, look no further than this fan meetup where we will discuss the lore, protocores, and more!
Making Digital or Traditional Manga 101
Hosted by: TJ
Friday Salon 5/6 ; 2:30 PM
AP
Have you ever wanted to create a manga and have no idea how or where to get started? This panel has you covered! We go over the manga making process start to finish as well as all the tools you need to make your manga ideas a reality! Whether you want to just make a quick comic to put online or print a full blown book!
Maybe the Real Animethon is the Friends We Made Along the Way
Hosted by: Jake
Saturday Salon 5/6 ; 12 PM
14P
Looking for a group? Come on over and find yourself a party to overcome a series of creative trials.
Meme Panel 2025
Hosted by: DitzyFlama
Saturday Salon 11; 1 PM
14P
The Meme Panel is BACK. This year, even bigger and better. Join this weird chaotic mess that I started years ago.
Moe Battle: The Waifu Wars
Hosted by: Brandon
Saturday Salon 12 ; 12:30 PM
14P
Once again, the title of "Best Girl" has been vacated. Can last year's winner mimic their victory or will a new girl rise to the occasion and take the crown for themselves. Only YOU can decide!
Monster Hunter Lore & Discussion!
Hosted by: Jakob
Saturday Salon 15/16 ; 9 PM
AP
Planning to hunt monsters after the convention? Then join your fellow Monster Hunter fans as we meet to discuss the lore of Monster Hunter, CAPCOM's hit action game! The hosts, Jakob & Chadimus, will provide deep analysis on this wild franchise!
Of Monsters And Men 2! Deeper Desires
Hosted by: Ken
Friday Salon 15/16 ; 10 PM
MP
Calling all monster lovers! This panel is for YOU! A look into the overlapping patterns found in media with monsters and why people desire the monsters in question, carnally.
Open Mic Karaoke
Hosted by: Kevin
Saturday Salon 10 ; 6:30 PM
AP
Got an itch to sing in front of a group of people? Come put your name in and join the queue, and come grab a mic when it's your turn! All we ask is to keep your song choices family friendly, and anime or pop culture related.
Persona Panel
Hosted by: Brendan
Friday Salon 13/14 ; 9:30 PM
14P
A fan panel devoted to discussion of the Persona series. Whether it's facing death , discovering your true self or stealing hearts we have you covered!
Pokemon Snap Challenge Season 6
Hosted by: Drake
Saturday Salon 5/6 ; 6:30 PM
AP
The goal of Pokemon Snap challenge is to create a lively, community-driven experience that blends fandom, creativity, and cosplay photography in a way that’s fun for newcomers and veterans alike.
It encourages interaction, exploration and creativity generating unique experiences and community engagement.
Professional Animator Analyzes Requested Animation! or Zenshu, Audience's pick!
Hosted by: Yushan
Saturday Salon 15/16 ; 1 PM
14P
Yushan Huang (current Vancouver-based animator who has worked for several shows on the Disney Channel / Teletoon, Netflix, PBS, HBO Max, Hulu) will be going over western principles of animation and analyzing anime (audience's option to pick Zenshu (2025)) from that perspective. Taking requests for your favourite scenes!
Queerness in Anime and Manga 2 Electric Boogaloo
Hosted by: Alex
Friday Salon 15/16 ; 7 PM
AP
Welcome back to Queerness in Anime and Manga! Here we discuss the subject along with its many ups and downs over the years. Audience participation is encouraged if you want to share your feelings on the topic feel free.
Realistic Handling of Weapons for Cosplay
Hosted by: Ryan
Saturday Salon 3 ; 1 PM
AP
Improve your cosplay and art by learning the how and why of real-world weapons handling. Including a Q&A for your Obscure questions!
Rookie Cosplayer: Etiquette and Safety
Hosted by: Jeffrey
Friday Salon 13/14 ; 6:30 PM
14P
Cosplay and convention veterans share etiquette and safety tips for newer cosplayers, photographers or con attendees. Learn about cosplay shoot dos and don'ts, red flags to watch for, and tips for photographer and cosplayer collaboration to avoid awkward or uncomfortable situations. We took input from the community, plus our own years of experience, to help keep your foray into cosplaying at conventions safe and fun. We learned the hard way so you can learn the easy way!
Roommates-A Yuri (GL) panel
Hosted by: Codex
Saturday Salon 12 ; 8 PM
MP
History will call them Roommates,or just friends. But we know better. Please join us for a open discussion about Yuri (GL)in Japanese media
Sashiko Embroidery: Functional and Fashionable
Hosted by: Emily / kawaiibrarian
Sunday ; Salon 15/16 ; 4 PM
AP
Did you know this style of embroidery dates back four centuries ago? It's not only intricate, but also functional as it can repair and strengthen fabrics. Come and learn about the art (and practicality) of sashiko that's become popular once again!
Shogi 101
Hosted by: Andy
Saturday Salon 15/16 ; 3 PM
AP
Are you curious about Japanese chess? Want to learn a new board game? Now is your chance! Come learn how to play shogi, and maybe even try a game! All ages and skill levels are welcome, no previous chess or Japanese knowledge required.
Shoot Like a Pro: Photography Skills for Cosplayers and Creators
Hosted by: Joseph
Friday Salon 15/16 ; 4 PM
AP
Want to snap cosplay photos or just regular photos that truly stand out—whether you're working with just your phone or that fancy camera you splurged on? Join us for a fun and informative dive into photography basics and learn how to capture that perfect con-worthy shot!
So You Wanna Live in Japan? A Guide to Getting There and Living Well
Hosted by: Charles
Friday Salon 15/16 ; 1 PM
AP
Dreaming of moving to Japan but not sure where to start? Just curious about what it’s like living there? Join Charles and Weiwei for an interactive session on the most exciting ways to study, work, and live happily in Japan.
With over 13 years of combined experience across cities like Kobe, Kyoto, and Osaka—including co-founding a local business and working at a traditional hot spring ryokan, a luxury hotel, and more—we’ll share practical advice, wild stories from the frontlines, and hidden opportunities that will help you turn your dream into reality!
The Anime Toy Quiz
Hosted by: Isaac
Saturday Salon 5/6 ; 10 PM
14P
Are you obsessed with plastic collectables? Want to show off your vast amount of niche merchandise trivia? Then come and participate in the Anime Toy Quiz! Test your knowledge! Win Prizes! and Learn about the rich history of anime-themed toys and merchandise in this exciting game show!
The Art History of Manga
Hosted by: Mouse Brown
Sunday Salon 5/6 ; 12 PM
14P
We all know and love manga, but do we know how it became possible? Who invented it? This panel gives a brief overview into the origins and evolution of Japanese comics, from it's complicated past all the way to modern day!
The Art of Translation and Editing
Hosted by: Kat
Saturday Salon 3 ; 11:30 AM
AP
Join us to learn about how translating and editing work in the localization industry and get a glance into the journey your favourite series take when being localized for an English audience.
The Lo-Fi Corner
Hosted by: Dakota
Saturday Salon 5/6 ; 3 PM
AP
I could use a nap.. and now you can at the LoFi Corner! Come listen to Ghibli and Anime Lofi in a panel dedicated to giving you a place to sit, study, sleep, or decompress with me! (conventions can be loud at times >.<)
The Not-So-Secret World of Yaoi
Hosted by: Cossette
Sunday Salon 11 ; 12:30 PM
MP
How far down the rabbit hole does the yaoi/boys love genre go? Join us as we explore the different mediums of BL and walk away with quite a list of recommendations that will scratch that fujoshi itch.
The Wig Panel
Hosted by: Sharktendo
Saturday Salon 13/14 ; 1 PM
AP
Are you terrified of styling wigs? Then this panel is for you! Make sure to bring your pens and notebooks (and iphone cameras) because we will be going over a multitude of ways to bring your cosplay wigs to the next level.
Tips and Tricks for Building OCs
Hosted by: Amelia
Friday Salon 5/6 ; 9 PM
14P
Do you have a little guy? Do you like to think about them? We can help you think about them MORE.
Travel to Japan: Best Bang For Your Buck
Hosted by: Steven
Saturday Salon 12 ; 6 PM
AP
Want to travel to Japan but not sure how to get the best bang for your buck? Where to stay? How to get around? Where is it worth going? Join us to maximize your trip to Japan!
Under the seams: Sewing from start to finished product
Hosted by: Lumen
Friday Salon 13/14 ; 11 AM
AP
A user friendly guide on how to start planning and executing a finished garment. The importance of pressing your fabric and the debate of hand sewn vs machine. Get answers to all your sewing queries!
Varieteasing Japanese Variety TV Shows!
Hosted by: Meika
Friday Salon 4 ; 11 AM
14P
IRL first-person shooter? Elaborate escape rooms? Discover Japanese variety TV beyond the Youtube clips! Includes quiz segments and prizes!
Video Game Jeopardy
Hosted by: Eli
Saturday Salon 13/14 ; 10 PM
AP
Join us for a fun-filled trivia night where gamers battle it out over epic questions from retro to modern hits. Test your knowledge and have a blast!
Villainesses, the RoFan Genre, and More!
Hosted by: Beyond Isekai
Friday Salon 12 ; 11:30 AM
14P
Come meet with us to get informed on the Romance Fantasy genre and Villainess craze! Your dukes of the north, your crown princes, your masters of the magic tower, all can be found here. Stay after the informative section to play some games with us!
VPets! Tamagotchi & Digimon
Hosted by: Jacob
Friday Salon 15/16 ; 2:30 PM
AP
Tamagotchi? Chances are you've heard about it back in the day. Well, what if I told you it's still a huge phenomenon in Japan? And what if I told you that's where Digimon got its start as well? Interested? Then come to the "VPets!" panel to learn all about the history of these fascinating little creatures and how you, too, can start your own VPet collection!
Wheel of Anime
Hosted by: Michael
Saturday Salon 12 ; 10 PM
AP
The Wheel of Anime returns to Animethon! Audience members will have a chance to spin the wheel and solve the puzzles in this themed version of a classic game show!
Who's That Pokémon?!
Hosted by: Mouse
Friday Salon 12 ; 1 PM
AP
Test your Pokémon knowledge in this Pokémon knowledge Battle of the ages!
Wotagei 101 - Introduction to Cyalume Dance
Hosted by: Tim
Friday Salon 10 ; 11 AM
AP
Come join us as we teach you how to perform Wotagei, also known as Cyalume Dance; a high-energy dance style performed with chemical glowsticks! (As seen in Oshi no Ko) Everyone, no matter your dance skill level, is welcome!
Yaoi Panel 18+
Hosted by: Yukirin
Saturday Salon 12 ; 9:30 PM
MP
Hello! Come join the Yaoi panel by Yukirin and Codex. Let's learn more about Yaoi, the upcoming and already released BL, and play some games too!
Zapp's Arcade!
Hosted by: Don
Saturday Hall C Entertainment Stage ; 2:30 PM
14P
Look, we all know that it's bad to play with yourselves, so come play with us instead! Compete with your friends, complete strangers, and maybe even one of us, in a bunch of completely bizarre mystery games we are 95% sure you have never even heard of (and for most of you, are probably older than you are)!
Zapp's Spaceship of Love: Great Big Nerd Debate
Hosted by: Don
Friday Salon 4 ; 8 PM
14P
Are visual novels video games? Should you watch or skip anime openings? Cats vs Dogs: Which makes better girls? Join the Zapp crew in this comedy debate panel, where debaters argue the absurd, answering the most bizarre anime questions you wish you'd never asked! We might even let YOU argue, too!
Zapp's Spaceship of Love: Great Big PERV Debate
Hosted by: Don
Saturday Salon 8/9 ; 9 PM
MP
Are feet or armpits sexier? Is cosplay intimacy overrated? Who is a better romantic partner: Wario or Waluigi? We have no idea. Seriously, this is hard. Come watch our degenerates debate the perverse, the lascivious, and the highly inappropriate, in this special 18+ adult only extra spicy edition of the Great Big Nerd Debate!