Best Anime Conventions in 2023

Aside from binging your favorite season of Naruto, another popular way to celebrate this iconic anime is by cosplaying some of the most recognizable characters at the next convention. So grab your Sasuke sword, Naruto headband, and Kakashi wig and head to some of these top conventions in 2023!

The United States is jam-packed with anime-focused conventions in 2023. These conventions are full of Japanese culture, talented artists, popular voice actors, and plenty of cosplay opportunities. Here are the ones to mark on your calendars.

Anime Boston

Anime Boston just celebrated its 20th anniversary. Despite being in one of the smaller cities, over 30,000 anime nerds attended! Anime Boston is a bit unique since it has a focus on Japanese cuisine. You can chow down on bento boxes and sushi while there! There are also fashion shows, expert panels, karaoke, and video game tournaments. You won’t be able to fit it all into three days so choose your activities wisely!

Date: April 7-9

AniMinneapolis

This convention has big plans for 2023, which is looking to add even more panels, video game exhibits, and artists. AniMinneapolis is known for its extensive vendors, who have the latest in anime gear. This is a great opportunity to show off your cosplay with a group of passionate anime enthusiasts in a growing scene. While the event is family-friendly, there are some closed off areas that are for attendees over 18.

Date: May 26 - 30

A-Kon

Since 1990, A-Kon (Anime Unchained) has been transforming Fort Worth into an anime hub. Weebs come from all over the world to compete in tournaments, get served tea at Lolita cafes, and even attend a charity banquet. A-Kon is also full of quality art vendors so you’re bond to do some shopping. Leave room in your suitcase!

Date: June 2-4

Anime Expo

This is probably the biggest anime convention of the year, located in Los Angeles. It has become a top destination for anime lovers from all over the world so you’re bound to make a lot of new friends and connections. There’s often over 100,000 people attending annually. You’ll be able to play video games, check out the latest in weeb fashion, learn about anime at expert panels, and get autographs from legendary voice actors.

Date: July 1-4

Otakon

Otakon is a coveted name in cosplaying. IT started back in 1994 and has become Washington DC’s biggest nerd draw year after year. It has anime, video games, movies, and music — you’re sure to find a ton of fun stuff that fits your unique interests. There are even video game competitions and concerts! For the cosplayers out there, you can sign up for a cosplay masquerade ball!

Date: July 28-30

Anime Matsuri

Head to Houston, Texas for this really fun anime convention — one of the biggest in the world. There’s usually over 35,000 anime fans in this fairly new convention, all there to celebrate Japanese pop culture together. The four-day event includes hip fashion designers, game developers, animators, and musicians, making it more than an anime con.

Date: August 10-13

Anime Weekend Atlanta

Atlanta, Georgia continues to be home to some of the best anime conventions in the country. This convention is one of the longest-running, dating back to 1995. It’s a two-day convention that is all about geek culture, from cosplay contests to tabletop gaming areas to anime panels. Anime Weekend is known for its amazing cosplays so definitely check out our store for the most realistic Sasuke swords for your Naruto cosplay.

Date: October 26-29

Youmacon

Youmacon’s 19th anniversary is coming in November of 2023. Located in Detroit, Youmacon is held in a 150,000-square foot space that is full of interactive games, live music, and tons of artwork to admire and purchase. This family-friendly event has activities for all ages, inspired by Japanese pop culture.

Date: November 2-5

Anime NYC

This is a massive event that’s in one of the best cities for fans of Japanese culture. The popular event is full of the latest video games, icon meet and greets, quality vendors, and some of the best cosplay in North America. New York City itself also has exceptional ramen and a very vibrant pop culture scene. You’ll be able to go to the Nintendo Store while there and hang out in Times Square with other cosplayers.

Date: November 17-19

Anime Convention Essentials

Going to an anime convention can be an exciting experience, but it’s important to remember the essentials! Here are some important items to bring with you:

• A comfortable outfit or costume – Anime conventions are a great opportunity to dress up and show off your cosplay. Choose clothing that’s both comfortable and fashionable.

• Money/cash – Cash will be necessary for purchases at vendor stalls, food, and other transactions requiring payment. Not all merchants and dealers accept cards, so it’s always worth bringing some cash with you to conventions.

• Reusable water bottle – Stay hydrated throughout the day and avoid lugging around plastic bottles.

• Phone, charger, and portable power bank – Keep in touch with friends and family, stay connected via social media, and make sure you have enough juice for all of your photos and videos.

• Small bag for carrying items – You don’t want to bring too much stuff on your person but you should bring a small bag for carrying around necessities like phone chargers.

• Snacks & food – It’s always important to have something available during those long days and late nights when hunger sets in.

• Earplugs & headphones – The music may be loud so earplugs would come in handy if that’s something you need. Having a pair of headphones also helps if you want to listen to music privately or talk on the phone without bothering anyone else.

• Hand sanitizer & wipes – Cleanliness is key when attending crowded events like conventions! Keep a hand sanitizer in your pocket or bag just in case you need to clean up quickly before heading into another room or panel discussion.

You also don’t want to go empty-handed in terms of your anime garb and accessories. Even if you aren’t in full cosplay, you might want to grab one of our cosplay swords, or even a good luck bracelet (can’t have a fun con experience without the right vibes!)