Schedule

In this advanced, machine-based workshop, you’ll learn how to create a range of polished, durable seam finishes using a standard home sewing machine without needing an overlock machine or serger. We’ll break down when and why to use different finishes depending on fabric type, costume structure, and wear demands, then walk through each technique step-by-step. Students will practice multiple seam finishes and leave with the confidence to choose the right one for any cosplay project.

Okaerinasaimase, goshujinsama/ojousama! When you purchase a ticket to Tomo’s Teahouse, you’re granted access to a magical place where maids and butlers live to serve YOU! Enjoy an hour of the finest tea blends, scrumptious bites and exciting live performances, followed by a raffle where you have the chance to win amazing prizes every session!

Are Tanuki Real? Could Frieren fall for a mimic trap that easily? And could Shinobu's poison work in real life? Join an animal expert as we discover the wild, wonderful and often bizarre world of animal science through an anime inspired lens.

Crochet isn’t just cozy, it’s cosplay worthy! Whether you’re new to the hook or a seasoned crocheter, discover crochet techniques that can transform your next cosplay. We'll discuss how to craft props, details, and wearable pieces with yarn to make your character truly stand out.
 

Looking for something to get you moving? Want to get your heart pumping to your favorite idol songs? Come join idols from all around the country as they lead you in exercised based versions of J-pop jams! Make sure to apply that deodorant because we will be breaking a sweat!

Come talk about the World of Persona with two voice actors that know that world intimately.

Welcome to Pokémon school! In today's class we will be discussing grass type Pokémon. Why do they act and look a specific way? Join Professor Ginkgo in this biological botanical adventure!

Ever frustrated in a Yakuza mahjong mini game, wondering if you’re playing or just mashing buttons? Interested in dominating Doman Mahjong in Final Fantasy XIV? We’ve got you covered! Join Kansas City Riichi Mahjong for an interactive workshop that will awaken your inner mahjong master. In this workshop, we’ll cover the basics through a carefully crafted series of mini games that progressively build your skills. Whether you're an anime fan curious about what those cute anime girls were playing, a strategist searching for your next game to analyze, or just someone looking to learn something completely new, this workshop is your ticket to dominating the parlors!

Did you ever want to learn Japanese? Watch anime without subtitles? Understand basic phrases and know the writing systems? Here's your chance! Learn basic phrases, fundamentals, pronunciation, and how to write your name! A great way to jump in to a new language!

Okaerinasaimase, goshujinsama/ojousama! When you purchase a ticket to Tomo’s Teahouse, you’re granted access to a magical place where maids and butlers live to serve YOU! Enjoy an hour of the finest tea blends, scrumptious bites and exciting live performances, followed by a raffle where you have the chance to win amazing prizes every session!

Come and watch our special Idol Guest dance to a variety of songs! Make sure to bring your lightsticks and join in on all the fun! 

Sit down with writer Kayli Mills and learn about the work that goes into writing scripts for our favorite anime!

Come one, come all to witness the Cos-Parade!  It’s a fantastic way to showcase all of the wonderful cosplays that appear at Naka-Kon each year in a non-competitive stroll around the convention center! Participants must register on-site to participate starting at 6:00 p.m. There is a limit of 50 participants that are granted on a first come-first serve basis.

Once upon a time, One Piece's English language release was handled by a company who had the unenviable task of making One Piece palatable for young children in the US. Needless to say, it didn't work out. Fans were pretty angry about it at the time, but now with hindsight, a lot of it is equal parts funny and fascinating. In this panel, we'll explore this era of One Piece (and its fandom's) history, and the lasting consequences it had.

Walking on stage got you sweating? Come learn tips and tricks to make any stage walk into a cake walk. Our team of award-winning performers is ready to get you prepped to make a crowd cheer and keep your cool under pressure!

Swap J-Fashion clothes, accessories and more with fellow community members new and old! A limited number of tables will be provided on a first come, first serve basis, but please be kind and share with your neighbors. BYO-clothing racks welcome.

Please note: This event is for swapping/trading goods only. No cash transactions or offers of services.

Writer Jukki Hanada crafts stories that hit hard and stay with you long afterward. His career in anime scriptwriting spans over thirty years and ranges from sci-fi thrillers like Steins;Gate to coming-of-age adventures like A Place Further Than the Universe. In this panel, we’ll spotlight several of his other works and discover what makes his writing style so distinct.

The veil between worlds grows thin once more, and only the bravest challengers may enter. The air is thick with whispers; shadows flicker at the edge of your vision, and yes—those gleaming eyes in the dark are watching you. Yōkai prowl the corridors—some are friendly, but most are just hungry. Only those who face their fears and overcome each ghastly challenge can escape the Spirit World and return safely to our own.

Note: Black lights present, expect jump style scares and sudden breezes. Passage through the maze is sometimes narrow, please be mindful of costumes/accessories that could get caught on walls or decorations. Recommended minimum age is 5 years.

Tickets must be purchased through Eventbrite. Attendees must also have a valid badge for Naka-Kon 2026.

You’ve been a fan of the genre since childhood, right? Your brain is filled with those unnecessary trivia facts about your favorite magical girl! Well now, it’s time to put that knowledge to the test. Challenge your friends, win prizes! Sign our contract! (Please don’t, actually.)

Back again for another year! Are you ready to show off your anime knowledge? Come on over for an intense Anime Quiz Bowl. From Shōnen to Shōjo, anime openings, retro classics; do you have what it takes to win? At least 70 people will have a chance to compete in a series of 4v4 trivia rounds! (Prizes will be awarded!)

Want to start learning to pattern your own Cosplays but aren't too sure where to start? Stop by my panel to learn some beginner friendly tricks to drafting your first cosplay pattern by mixing and mashing store bought patterns.

Hey KID! Yeah YOU! Do you have a sketchbook full of pure uncut CRINGE? Sure, we all do. Come watch artist Amelie Belcher show you all the mistakes budding artists all make when starting their art journey. It's OK to point and laugh. We've all been there.

Nakama - It’s time to beat the drums of liberation and nostalgia! Our guest of honor is an artist who has been part of the ONE PIECE franchise from the beginning.

Debuted with ""memories"", the ED theme song for the TV anime ""ONE PIECE"". The second ending song ""RUN !RUN!RUN!"" followed and was also a smash hit. As the first ED-singer for ""ONE PIECE,"" Maki Otsuki has participated in various live events at ONE PIECE related events.

Horror Stories? Con Adventures? Who knows what else! Hang out with Jonah Scott and chat about it all!

Why do certain characters stick with us? This panel explores how design, personality, story, and cultural context shape our favorites, and how our own backgrounds and experiences influence those connections. Guided by fans trained in media studies (no background required!), walk through how characters are shaped and how fans help bring meaning through identity, community, and interpretation. Whether you love a deep look or just have a deep love, this panel can help you see your favorite characters (and perhaps your personal character) in a new light!

Bunny Bar is back for two unforgettable nights of performances, live music sets, and yummy drinks! Compete in games against our Bunny staff to earn raffle tickets to win prizes, take pics with us at the photo booth, or simply chill out and enjoy a lovely conversation with a Bunny while sipping on sake! We charge a $5 cover fee at the door which includes complimentary snacks, while supplies last. Please be prepared to scan a Waitwhile QR code with your phone to join the virtual line.

Cosplayers in the finished photos look like they did it all on their own... but what about the person just out of frame - their handler! This panel will be about praising the unsung heroes of cosplay and why it is important to have a handler, especially in special circumstances. They do so much more than hold your bag for photoshoot...

We are excited for the return of DJ Sameshima. He is part of the group called BAN BAN BAN, who were guests at Naka-Kon 2025.

This year, he’s joining us as a solo Anison DJ and will provide a chill start to the convention on Friday night. City pop is a genre of Japanese pop music that emerged in the mid-1970s and peaked in the 1980s, reflecting the optimism and economic prosperity of Japan's bubble era.
 

Higurashi: When They Cry is a series that takes great joy in redefining itself at every turn. You think you have it figured out, but you were only looking at a fragment of the whole picture. For newcomers: let’s dig in to how to approach this unique work of art. For veterans: let’s talk about what makes it so special, what keeps it in our hearts even 20 years later.

Do Your Own Dub contest page

Have you ever wondered which characters are alphas and which are omegas? Well, we have selected characters from across different media and time to expose if they are A/B/O!!!! Come join us and cheer on your favs while AO3 explains if they are a beta or an alpha.

When was the last time you watched an anime that had an Angel, Demon, Priest, or Nun? What about one featuring the Holy Grail or an Exorcist? Join us as we explore the Christian themes and symbols that frequently appear in anime. We’ll also learn about the complicated, but massive impact Christianity made on Japan’s History. Including the role it played in Japan’s 200+ years of isolation.

Why are you dubbing anime at the soup store!? Put your improv skills to the test in the 18+ version of our Do Your Own Dub Contest - a new feature at Naka-Kon! Even if you're not much of an improv person, you can still enjoy this event from our audience. Plus, the audience gets to vote LIVE for our winners!

Check out the full contest rules and information.

Cos-lesque is returning for another year! Cos-lesque is a cosplay-themed burlesque show showcasing theatrical strip teases, this year featuring dazzling performers from Risqué Revelry! This is an 18+ ticketed event so grab your tickets for some cosplay-themed adult fun!

Whether you’re a painfully ordinary harem protagonist or a hapless visitor to Innsmouth, Massachusetts, you need this comprehensive guide to monstrous waifus! Together, we’ll investigate the evolution of monster girls through anime as well as some of their mythological and pop culture origins. Whether your waifu has fangs, wings, or feathers, this panel is the place for learning about monster girls, past and present.

Join EBA as we read aloud some of the best and raunchiness fan fiction we have found.

Learn about the history of the Japanese indie rock band Guitar Vader, popular for their appearances in the soundtracks of Jet Set Radio and Jet Set Radio Future. This presentation delves deep into the band's formation, its members, songwriting, and much more. Please join us if you want to not just expand your musical palate but also hear about an interesting found media story!

Explore the world of the (not so) Heavenly Host Elementary School and the thirty years of terror it's provided to fans. From manga adaptations to radio dramas, get ready to experience the longtime charm of Corpse Party beyond its popular game medium.

There’s just some things you can’t let your mother hear, even with something as upbeat as Vocaloid songs. YouTube deep dive can get scary on the Vocaloid side of things, Hatsune Miku sang WHAT ?! Well! That’s exactly what we’ll be going over now! Vocaloid songs that you can never unsee.

Do you watch anime? Do you wanna speak on it? Audience members will join an open discussion as we debate topics such as the Trolley Problem, the Lunch Table Game, Airplane Seating, Hot Takes, Death Battle, Could they beat Goku, and more!

The world of anime cookbooks is equal parts sweet and salty, with some recipes and IPs making more sense than others. In this panel, I'll tell you all about the best, the worst, most creative, and most puzzling things to be found in officially licensed anime cookbooks. And yes, there will be pictures.

Are you the guardian of a child who wants to cosplay, but this whole dress up thing is confusing? Are you a child who wants to cosplay, but your parents just don’t get it? Is the task of making the cosplay stressful and confusing? Well, this panel is for you! Come meet MonoDork, a 21-year-old competitive cosplayer, who started when they were 11 at Naka-Kon 2016! They will explain cosplay and put to sleep any rumors and misconceptions. Then learn that you don’t need to buy a $100+ cosplay online. And how all you need is a thrift store and some creativity!

Skill Level: Beginner-friendly

In this hands-on workshop, students will learn the foundational techniques of traditional leather tooling from start to finish. The class covers how to properly prep leather, transfer a design, carve clean lines, and use basic stamping tools to create texture and depth. Each student will complete and take home a tooled leather bookmark or coaster while gaining skills that can be applied to cosplay accessories, armor accents, belts, and props. No prior leatherworking experience is required.

Learning Outcome:

• How to properly prep leather for tooling
• How to transfer a design onto leather accurately and cleanly
• Basic leather carving techniques
• How to use common stamping and tooling tools to add texture and depth
• Tips for achieving crisp lines and consistent impressions
• How to apply leather tooling techniques to cosplay accessories, props, and costume details
   

Curious about what it takes to make video games for a living? Join local game developers from Circean Studios for an open Q&A panel about their real-world experiences in the game industry. From first projects and career paths to lessons learned along the way, this panel is perfect for anyone who’s ever wondered if game development could be their future. Bring your questions, your curiosity, and your passion for games!

Bingo? Brunch? Cosplay? What more could you need! The Naka-Kon Cosplay Brunch & Bingo event is your one stop shop to fill your belly with delicious waffles, and win some amazing prizes. The one and only Luna Flare will be hosting, so bring your appetite and good luck cosplays for the chance to win some great prizes, including passes to Naka-Kon 2027! In addition to winning prizes for winning bingo rounds, there will be raffle tickets available for additional prize opportunities, and even a prize for cosplaying!

Step right up to Tomo’s Grand Matsuri! The games are back, the prizes are waiting, and the fun’s just getting started! Test your aim, show off your skills, and claim victory (and a few bragging rights while you’re at it). Don’t forget to stop by our photo booth where you can be dressed up in a colorful yukata or strike a pose in your best cosplay against our dazzling backdrops. Come for the challenge, stay for the memories!

Join The Fandom Father for a panel all about...YOU! Come up and show off that cosplay to the audience! Tell us how you made it, why you picked the character, and any fun facts that will help us be proud of you and your cosplay!

Are you interested in living and working in Japan? If so, the Japan Exchange and Teaching (JET) Program may be for you. The JET Program was founded in 1987 and has sent more than 77,000 participants from around the world to work in schools, boards of education, and government offices throughout Japan. JET is the only teaching exchange program managed by the government of Japan. This panel will feature alumni of the JET Program who will share about their own JET experiences and answer your questions about the program.

Get to know your new favorite voice actor.

Join us for our Lolita Fashion Show and Designer Q&A with special guest brand Iris Garden × Haenuli, plus an appearance from J-Pop idol PAiDA! This will be a special opportunity to see their beautiful looks on the runway, including the debut of new, never before seen designs! Our featured guests, Head Designer Haenuli (Nunu) and Manager Iris will participate in a Q&A session following the fashion show.

Got questions for our lovely idol from space?! Come to her Q&A and ask all that you can! Maybe you’ll learn how to go to space too! 

Photography is an exciting and fun way to capture the essence of a cosplayer, but the world of photoshoots can be daunting. Come join BadAsh Cosplay (cosplayer) and Lucky Photo (photographer) as they share their experience in organizing and conducting cosplay photoshoots. Everything from how to communicate with a photographer or cosplayer, what to prepare for before a shoot, posing tips and tricks, and what to expect during and after a photoshoot. Come view cosplay photo examples, both beautiful and problematic, and ask questions on how to get started!

The Persona series started 30 years ago with Revelations: Persona back on the original PlayStation and now has become one of the biggest series coming out of Japan. This panel will be a fun look back over the past three decades with a room full of fellow fans. This will cover video games, anime, manga, music, and much much more. As well offering plenty of trivia questions with lots of prizes to giveaway.

Add depth, dimension, and sculptural detail to your cosplay using trapunto embroidery. In this machine-based workshop, you’ll learn the history, purpose, and modern cosplay applications of trapunto, plus we’ll cover how trapunto can be used to build subtle relief, bold 3D motifs, and padded texture in garments and costume elements. Students will complete a finished trapunto patch during class, and will also leave with a clear understanding of how to adapt these techniques for future costumes across a range of fabrics and design styles.

Note: The end product will be a Japanese motif.

Time to take the stage! You’re invited to join fellow idols in a thrilling jpop random dance party! Come dance to your favorite songs from Love Live, Project Sekai, Oshi no Ko, Vocaloid, Uta Pri, Idolish7, and more! Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, all are welcome!

Do Your Own Dub contest page

Okaerinasaimase, goshujinsama/ojousama! When you purchase a ticket to Tomo’s Teahouse, you’re granted access to a magical place where maids and butlers live to serve YOU! Enjoy an hour of the finest tea blends, scrumptious bites and exciting live performances, followed by a raffle where you have the chance to win amazing prizes every session!

Sit down with some of your favorite voice actors and learn the tools of the trade! Bring your most thoughtful and heartfelt questions and learn how YOU could become a voice actor!

Why are you dubbing anime at the soup store!? Put your improv skills to the test in the all ages version of our Do Your Own Dub Contest - a new feature at Naka-Kon! Even if you're not much of an improv person, you can still enjoy this event from our audience. Plus, the audience gets to vote LIVE for our winners! Check out the Naka-Kon website for full contest rules and information.

Check out the full contest rules and information.

Nakama - It’s time to beat the drums of liberation and nostalgia! Our guest of honor is an artist who has been part of the ONE PIECE franchise from the beginning.

Debuted with ""memories"", the ED theme song for the TV anime ""ONE PIECE"". The second ending song ""RUN !RUN!RUN!"" followed and was also a smash hit. As the first ED-singer for ""ONE PIECE,"" Maki Otsuki has participated in various live events at ONE PIECE related events.

What do superheroes, dungeon delvers, and high school athletes all have in common? An active lifestyle, of course! In recent years, more and more people have found themselves inspired to pursue healthy habits thanks to their favorite characters. Together we will examine some of these characters, the things that make them so inspiring, and the actionable steps you can take to reach your health and fitness goals.

Think you’ve got sweet moves? Join the Konpeito Klash, where dodgeball gets a sugary twist! Dive, duck, and dodge as candy-bright konpeito “balls” fly through the air in a blur of color and laughter. Bring friends or compete with whoever is there. Each round will last 3 minutes each and allow 2 teams of 5 people to play at a time.

Rainbow nerds RISE UP! Coming back again, your panelists are here to check in on all things LGBTQIA+, fandom and cosplay. This is a place to share your experiences and also learn from each other on how to move through your nerdy spaces with pride.

Your favorite characters are on trial! At this panel, audience members can participate in the trial of various anime and manga greats—from Code Geass's Lelouch to Bocchi the Rock's Ryo Yamada—who are facing a wide array of charges. During the trial, presided over by your host, Judge Randy, you have the chance to argue as a "lawyer" for the prosecution or the defense, or to join the jury and vote on your verdict: Guilty or Not Guilty. Come to join the trial, or just to witness the thrilling legal action! (Warning: the evidence at trial may reveal some spoilers for popular series!)

Some say anime wouldn't be the same without many of the women and femmes that lead as characters or as cast in the shows! Come hang out with Xanthe Huynh, Heather Gonzalez, and Kayli Mills.

Okaerinasaimase, goshujinsama/ojousama! When you purchase a ticket to Tomo’s Teahouse, you’re granted access to a magical place where maids and butlers live to serve YOU! Enjoy an hour of the finest tea blends, scrumptious bites and exciting live performances, followed by a raffle where you have the chance to win amazing prizes every session!

Have you ever seen a video in the AMV contest and wondered, "How do they do that?" Are you someone who doesn't watch AMVs and wonders what all the hype is about? Or are you a fellow editor looking for tips? Whatever your level of knowledge or experience, this is the AMV panel for you! An AMV editor will give tips about how to get started, what software to use, how to choose source material, and how to put it all together! Get a look behind the scenes of one of anime's catchiest hobbies.

Are you thinking about selling your art? If you’re just starting out, or wanting to break into doing Art Commissions, there’s No Stupid Questions! Join me as I recount my experience doing commissions online, and then open the floor for your questions— no matter how basic! There’s No Stupid Questions!!

Love blind boxes, good DIY, and a cute bag accessory? Then this workshop is for you! Join us for a hands-on craft workshop to make fun bag charms with blind box figurines and beads - there will be so many beads. BYOB (Bring Your Own Blind box figurine)! All other supplies are included with the workshop fee. Each attendee will receive a supply kit with enough beads and findings to make one bag accessory; tools will be shared at your station. Pre-order extra supply kits for more DIY crafting fun. Workshop is sponsored by BUBBLE WRAPP, with additional support by AKIBA HQ, Collector's Cache and Boba Love. Find all of the sponsors in the vendor hall.

Tickets coming soon

Naka-Kon is proud to yet again host the cosplay contest, right here on the Main Stage! This exciting event is an opportunity for crafters and performers alike to showcase their cosplay and talent on stage. Come watch these wonderful cosplayers strut their stuff across the mainstage!

That Time I Went To A Slime Fan Panel, an open discussion about one of the most popular Isekai stories out there. Between the new movie and season 4 being confirmed for 60+ episodes, let us discuss our theories, favorite scenes, etc… This panel is great for beginners and long term fans of this series.

Like anime? Like history? Like history in your anime? In this game, you'll guess whether or not certain historical details are represented accurately by anime. And yes, there are prizes!

Okaerinasaimase, goshujinsama/ojousama! When you purchase a ticket to Tomo’s Teahouse, you’re granted access to a magical place where maids and butlers live to serve YOU! Enjoy an hour of the finest tea blends, scrumptious bites and exciting live performances, followed by a raffle where you have the chance to win amazing prizes every session!

Pokémon trainers, are you ready for a bracket style draw from memory Pokémon game? Compete against each other for a grand prize or help the contestants by yelling out descriptions. Will you become the Pokémon drawing master?

Trainers wanted! Help train your favorite Umamusume by playing fun Minute to Win It style games themed around Umamusume: Pretty Derby. Audience members will receive badge ribbons for participating!

Are you interested in writing fanfiction? Whether you have yet to pen your first work or are a seasoned fanfic veteran, our panelists will have great insight into the craft of writing stories based on existing works of fiction. Learn about the writing, editing, and posting process; finding fandom community; and participating in online events and zines.

The world of "Kingdom Hearts" can be convoluted, even for hardcore fans! Join us for a confusing, yet amusing time of recounting the plot of the Kingdom Hearts games for newcomers and veterans of the franchise.

Come learn the basics of one of the best iPad drawing programs available. So simple it's crazy! Learn to create digital art like a pro in no time at all with artist Amelie Belcher.

Join Too Kyo Games CEO and creator and writer of Danganronpa, Kazutaka Kodaka to learn more about game development in Japan.

Too Kyo Games, Inc. is a Japanese video game developer founded by ex-employees of Spike Chunsoft. It was formed in 2017 by Danganronpa series creator Kazutaka Kodaka, Zero Escape series creator Kotaro Uchikoshi, composer Masafumi Takada, and artist Rui Komatsuzaki. The company is working on several games, and collaborated with Studio Pierrot on the 2020 anime series Akudama Drive.

Are you completely lost on what gacha is, and need a crash course that gets to the heart of the matter? Have you completely lost yourself in gacha, and want to hear someone passive-aggressively share your pain? From games like Genshin Impact that have lasted over half a decade, to games that lasted less than half a year, this panel has all the info on gacha you need and more!

Ever have a friend poorly describe an anime? Well I’m that friend try to come and figure out what anime I’m talking about to win prizes everyone is a winner so come join us at “Do you know that anime?”

Step into Hashira Training, an interactive Demon Slayer panel where you’ll test your skills against nine challenges inspired by each of the Hashira themselves! From fiery shout-offs with Rengoku and flashy pose contests with Tengen to Mitsuri’s love confession challenge and Shinobu’s poison-or-antidote guessing game, every trial is designed to capture the spirit of the Hashira. Earn points in each round as you compete in trivia, riddles, endurance tests, and more, all while climbing the ranks on our live scoreboard. At the end of training, the top three Demon Slayers will be crowned and awarded epic grand prizes—do you have what it takes to rise above the rest and claim the title?

The veil between worlds grows thin once more, and only the bravest challengers may enter. The air is thick with whispers; shadows flicker at the edge of your vision, and yes—those gleaming eyes in the dark are watching you. Yōkai prowl the corridors—some are friendly, but most are just hungry. Only those who face their fears and overcome each ghastly challenge can escape the Spirit World and return safely to our own.

Note: Black lights present, expect jump style scares and sudden breezes. Passage through the maze is sometimes narrow, please be mindful of costumes/accessories that could get caught on walls or decorations. Recommended minimum age is 5 years.

Tickets must be purchased through Eventbrite. Attendees must also have a valid badge for Naka-Kon 2026.

Suzaku no Shimo - Charity Ball

Cosplay wigs can be super scary, making that first snip is often the hardest challenge of all — but it doesn’t have to be! Join in for your crash course of wig styling from a local fiber enthusiast. We’ll be presenting a live demonstration, as well as all of our tips and tricks for your future cosplay!

Do you want to live in a Pokémon world? Come with us as we journey across a brand new St. Louis-based region. With your trusty Pokédex in hand, you'll soon discover the world of horrors you've just entered! Still think you have what it takes to be a Pokémon Master?

AKA We All (Should Never EVER) Live in a Pokémon Would!

It’s time to play Match Game with characters from beloved animes. Everyone will be given a fill-in-the-blank question, and you have to guess how the characters will answer. It’s a point for you if your answers match!

Bunny Bar is back for two unforgettable nights of performances, live music sets, and yummy drinks! Compete in games against our Bunny staff to earn raffle tickets to win prizes, take pics with us at the photo booth, or simply chill out and enjoy a lovely conversation with a Bunny while sipping on sake! We charge a $5 cover fee at the door which includes complimentary snacks, while supplies last. Please be prepared to scan a Waitwhile QR code with your phone to join the virtual line.

The year 2006 was 20 years ago. Hare Hare Yukai is now a relic of ye olden times. Whether you're a fellow millennial coming to terms with your own mortality or a whippersnapper looking for a history lesson, join our panel of aging experts as we reminisce about a hand-picked assortment of our favorite anime that turn 20 this year and why you should still care about them today.

A collection of chilling tales of the unusual, cringey, and downright bizarre encounters of the J-Fashion community! Shipping mishaps, strange comments, wardrobe malfunctions and other spooky experiences are waiting to be re-lived! Submit your own in advance or share during the open-mic.

This is the evening version of our Brunch & Bingo event! This adults-only event is an opportunity to feast on delicious food, and win some amazing prizes including passes to Naka-Kon 2027! Join our host Luna Flare for an incredible evening. In addition to winning bingo rounds, there will be raffle tickets available for additional prize opportunities and even a prize for cosplaying!

Moonlight Cosplay Bingo

We're back for year number THREE! Embark on a macabre journey through time, and experience the evolution of horror anime over the decades. We'll cover the body horror of the 80s, the ultraviolence of the 90s, the psychological horror of the 2000s, and on until we reach the present day. Seasoned veterans of the scene as well as newbies to the genre alike can expect an abundance of anime recommendations to add to their watch list. (Mature Content Warning: Some content will not be appropriate for all audiences.)

Tiaras off, gloves on! Here we dive into the hardest-hitting fight scenes in magical girl anime, with animation so sharp they put shounen action series to shame. Perfect for fans of petticoats and precise punches!

From Anime to Video Games to Social Media, Shiba Inus have become a now iconic dog breed worldwide. But what are these dogs really like? (evil) and are they worth getting as a pet? (no). Join a shiba inu owner as we learn the history of these dogs, their role in Japanese culture, what makes them so unique and why you should never get one.

Put your favorite video games and anime to the ultimate soundtrack! Combine video and music in an incredible AMV (anime music video) that can move audiences to laughter or tears... or maybe even both! Naka-Kon is excited to present a refreshed AMV Contest experience for attendees to enjoy. Winners will be selected from the finalists in each category by live audience voting during our AMV Showcase events - one for all ages, and one 18+. It's an AMV Contest you won't want to miss!

Check out our list of finalists on our website

We are excited for the return of DJ Sameshima. He is part of the group called BAN BAN BAN, who were guests at Naka-Kon 2025.

This year, he’s joining us as a solo Anison DJ and will provide a fun and energetic set of Anison Disco night on Saturday night. Anison Disco is a fun, interactive event open to all ages and fandoms, where attendees can enjoy dancing (otagei) to their favorite anime songs (anison).

Mobile Suit Gundam is a massive and longstanding franchise, and for many folks that can prove rather daunting to try to get invested in. If you're interested to learn more about it and figure out where to start, then this panel is the one for you. Join us as we look over more than 45 years worth of Gundam to help you find a good entry point to the behemoth of a mecha series that will suit your own personal tastes.

So... you're ready to start drawing naughty art. But where to begin? Come let Artist Amelie Belcher take you tenderly by the hand and teach you anatomy for the naughty arts. There will be pointing and laughing. Oh yes, there will be.

Welcome to Raccoon City! The stakes are high, the questions are deadly, and the contestants must answer correctly to escape the horde. Our host (who is definitely NOT infected) will guide the players through rounds of increasing difficulty. Correct answers earn points, wrong answers release the zombies! So grab your gear and prepare for the only trivia game where survival is not guaranteed and fun is mandatory!

Original Video Animation, shortened to OVAs, had a golden era in the 80s to 90s. Josei, or manga in Japan aimed at adult women, is the most underserved demographic for anime. Take a trip from the 90s to the present day- where we watched every single josei OVA that has been released. Featuring everything from Honey and Clover, Karneval, and Usagi Drop- come celebrate josei in this no holds barred panel.

Join EBA in the fights of the century as cosplayers from our own audience roll their own fates and fight in mock combat, will the dice be in their favor?

Fujoshi and Fudanshi, rejoice! We are back again for another year! Prepare for a night of hilariously bad or good yaoi shows depending on your definition. Arguably pun-tastic jokes and fabulous door prizes! This panel is an 18+ panel for a particular sub-genre of anime. This panel may contain any or all of the following: foul language, animated nudity, suggestive language, adult themes, homosexual themes, animated sexual scenes, bad puns, violence, and controversial themes.

Create your character, give them a sexy outfit, then come join us on a fantastical adventure into the world of Adult Games! From the exciting dungeon-crawler of Loop Queen: Escape Dungeon 3 to helping a fox-spirit regain her power by streaming on the internet, there's something for everyone with adult games! So join us as we dive into the adult gaming world and take a look at the best (or worst!) they have to offer!

Tired of swiping left and right on real people? Want to get some practice in before judging books by their covers? You've come to the right place! The best form of practice is on the inanimate! Join us for a game of Date Everything smash or pass, where you will see the only the objects before their human counterparts!

The subject is: Improv- but with a lot more curse words and crude humor than that OTHER improv panel!!! Do you have the ability to think of funny remarks on the fly? A perfect response to the perfect set up, that may or may not have been accidental? Are you a nerd, a weeb, or just a guy named Paul (Hey Paul!!!!)? Come join your host, MaveyWavie, and their co-host(s) as they help guide you through a series of hilarious, knee slapping, improv games centered around your favorite video games, anime, and pop culture pieces of media. Audience participation is HIGHLY valued in this panel, but not required! If you would just like to stay and watch that is alright too!! We ask that all participants and audience members follow standard Theater rules of etiquette, to show kindness to those in the spotlight.

This panel is strictly 16+.

Like singing along with your favorite tunes? Come and have fun with open karaoke!

Getting a little old for high school anime? Looking for something different? Let's look at some anime made for an older audience, about adult characters dealing with adult problems. About characters with jobs and responsibilities. Because there's more to life than teenage angst.

Attack on Titan. Demon Slayer. One Punch Man. Of course you know some banger anime openings. But what about these?

In a world of Big Name Cosplayers, Social Media Algorithms and Joanns dead and buried in the ground, getting into cosplay can feel over whelming and daunting. But fear not! Join a seasoned and salty cosplayer as we learn the ins and outs of (sometimes literally) getting into cosplay. From where to get your fabric, to what kind of shoes to wear. This panel is a beginner friendly on boarding into the world of cosplay.

Inari has reimagined the obstacle course to be more challenging than ever! You'll have to complete the course while ducking and dodging additional surprises. Contestants will be separated into age groups to keep the competition fair and the fun fierce. Are you ready?

Age Groups will be 5-9, 10-14, or 15 and over.  Parent or guardian signature for under 18 required.

Do you love manga? You do? Great! Come join a veteran manga reader and your fellow attendees as we discuss manga as a form of literature and its importance as not only art, but storytelling that can be shared and celebrated. This panel will include a brief presentation, followed by an open discussion with guided questions.

The Hot Seat is coming back to Naka-Kon with Questions from the Gundam Media Franchise. Twelve Questions, Six Players, a prize package of up to ¥2,000,000 up for grabs. The main question is: Will you know your Gundam Trivia, or will you misanalyse your trivia question that will lead to your elimination in the game? (Panel is for all ages, but attendees must be 18 years old or older to play the game.)

Do you like DnD? Do you like improv? DO YOU LIKE ISEKAI?! This panel might be for you! Join Eirys Rayne Cosplay for an exciting interactive story. Eirys needs YOUR help to get these characters through this mini Isekai adventure story. Who knows what craziness awaits? Come take part in your own Isekai adventure, or come rest and listen too.

Skill Level: Intermediate

Ready to tackle sturdy buns, dramatic drill curls, or gravity-defying spikes? In this two-hour hands-on workshop, cosplayer Malinda-chan teaches you how to cover foam and other support structures with wig hair to create clean, professional-looking shapes that actually hold up. Students will learn core techniques for attaching, smoothing, and finishing wig fibers over forms, then apply those skills to create and take home a Sailor Moon–style odango bun. This class is ideal for cosplayers looking to move beyond basic styling and add durable, sculptural elements to their wig builds.

Wig Workshop: Covering Forms

Join us for a Lolita Fashion Tea Party with Special Guest brand Iris Garden × Haenuli! Enjoy a delicious tea menu with our special guests Head Designer Haenuli (Nunu) and Manager Iris, along with fellow fashion fans, along with gift bags, raffle prizes, a photo booth and a special coordinate prize for one lucky attendee selected by our Special Guests!

Lolita Fashion Tea Party

Whether you're a seasoned cosplayer or a curious observer, join us for an insightful journey into the transformative power of fabrics in shaping the identity and trends within the cosplay community. From the emergence of innovative materials to the anthropological narratives woven into fabric choices, this presentation sheds light on the dynamic interplay between technology, culture, and creativity!

Subs over Dubs? Dubs over Subs? You're both wrong! Aaron Roberts shares process insights & stories.

Learn all about our one and only Zeno Robinson’s own manga! 

What happens when you mix your love of all things automotive and your love of anime? Itasha! Come and learn a little bit about the itasha community. It may even get you closer to having one of your own.

Okaerinasaimase, goshujinsama/ojousama! When you purchase a ticket to Tomo’s Teahouse, you’re granted access to a magical place where maids and butlers live to serve YOU! Enjoy an hour of the finest tea blends, scrumptious bites and exciting live performances, followed by a raffle where you have the chance to win amazing prizes every session!

Are you a fan of idol anime? Do you love watching J-Pop performers show off their cool moves? Do you want to support your local and new guest idol dance groups? Then this is for you! We'll have many different idol groups from all over the USA come together to put on a show and we would love to have you there to cheer them on! Make sure to bring your penlight since you will learn wotagei (cheering gestures) to support the performers. Can't wait to see you there!

Guest Emcees: PAiDA and Diana Tolin!

Fancy yourself the ultimate anime watcher in your circle? Think your screen time is the highest of them all? Then this just might be the panel for you! Screenshot Showdown is a game show made to test your familiarity with anime of all genres. The concept is simple: we’ll show you a freeze frame from an episode of an anime series, and you’ll try to be the first to correctly identify where it’s from. Sounds easy enough, right? But, do you REALLY know your favorite series well enough to identify it solely from a screenshot of that one background character’s grandma’s cat who was only seen in season 2 episode 5 and then never again? If you do, we’ll be really impressed. Like, really really impressed. So, why not put all those hours spent binge-watching (and rewatching) to the test for prizes and, most importantly, of course, the validation of being the anime fan with the sharpest eyes in the room? This is your ultimate chance to out-nerd all your fellow con-goers!

Whether you’re an avid dub watcher or a strictly sub-only fan, we’ve all had moments from anime dubbing that have stuck with us, be them good or bad. There’s no denying that anime dubbing has come a long way over the years, so from Sailor Moon’s infamous cousins to Belle’s fully localized soundtrack to both English dubs of Frieren, join us for a look at both the highlights and lowlights from the English versions of some of our favorite anime.

Would you like to hear from our esteemed cosplay contest judges about the various cosplay contests at Naka-Kon? Want to learn more about what goes into entering, judging or running the cosplay contest? Would you like feedback on your cosplay contest entry? Come chat in this relaxed panel and discuss these topics and more.

The con-crunch is finally over, right? WRONG! Get ready for the Iron Cosplay Con-Crunch Competition! (IC4 for short). Teams of up to five will create a theme-matching cosplay only with supplies provided at the event, all within a 60 minute time frame. Anyone can join in on the fun and there will be prizes for participants and lucky audience members! Participation is free! Crafting experience is not required, but teamwork and the ability to perform under time pressure is a must!

Check out the full contest details here!

Planning your first trip to Japan, or just dreaming of it? We’ll cover transportation, money, food, and cultural norms with real examples, humor, travel myths, and real advice! Perfect for beginners, solo travelers, or anyone curious about Japan’s unique travel experience!

Okaerinasaimase, goshujinsama/ojousama! When you purchase a ticket to Tomo’s Teahouse, you’re granted access to a magical place where maids and butlers live to serve YOU! Enjoy an hour of the finest tea blends, scrumptious bites and exciting live performances, followed by a raffle where you have the chance to win amazing prizes every session!

Are you a weirdo who likes to explore the weird, offputting side of whatever media you consume? Well, this is the panel for you! Surreal humor, mind-bending visuals, outrageous characters, and more await as we highlight the anime and creators that dare to be different.

How well do you know your anime? Can you tell us which characters said what lines? Well if you wanna test your luck come join us at Who Said That to win some prizes and candy. Hope to see you there!

Learn to sew a stylish, reusable Japanese bento box-style bag using a sewing machine in this hands-on class. Perfect for beginners ready to level up, this workshop walks you through machine fundamentals while introducing clean construction techniques you can reuse on future projects. You’ll leave with a finished bento bag and the confidence to keep sewing on your own.

Japanese Bento Bag Sewing Workshop

For every manga that becomes a hit and receives an anime, there are countless more that begin and end nearly unnoticed. Manga is a cutthroat industry, and there's no guarantee that even a great manga will receive enough support to reach a satisfying conclusion. Come learn about a number of manga that were axed before their deserved - or undeserved - natural end, as well as their 'cause of death'. If you have some beloved manga that you think met a tragic end, here's an opportunity to discuss why you think it should have been given a second chance.

Did someone go a bit over the top with the grab bags? Did you get one too many duplicate manga? What about the figurine from an anime you've never heard of?! Well, worry no more! The swap meet has come back for another exciting year. Remember, money is absolutely NOT allowed, so please do not try to swap for monetary value! Let's have some fun and make not only your, but someone else's day!

Put your favorite video games and anime to the ultimate soundtrack! Combine video and music in an incredible AMV (anime music video) that can move audiences to laughter or tears... or maybe even both! Naka-Kon is excited to present a refreshed AMV Contest experience for attendees to enjoy. Winners will be selected from the finalists in each category by live audience voting during our AMV Showcase events - one for all ages, and one 18+. It's an AMV Contest you won't want to miss!

Check out our list of finalists on our website

Anime Tattoos are all the rage...but what makes a good tattoo? How do you know what will age well? Is this or that image better or worse for the life of your tattoo? Come let tattoo artist Amelie Belcher spill the tea. Be prepared for your tattoo journey like a pro!

Did you know that you can compete in Cosplay at the international level? Well you can, and can even try your hand at it right here at Naka-Kon! Join this group of international competitors and show runners to discuss international competitions, and how to prepare for the Naka-Kon x Holiday Matsuri Winter Cosplay Championship.

Okaerinasaimase, goshujinsama/ojousama! When you purchase a ticket to Tomo’s Teahouse, you’re granted access to a magical place where maids and butlers live to serve YOU! Enjoy an hour of the finest tea blends, scrumptious bites and exciting live performances, followed by a raffle where you have the chance to win amazing prizes every session!

Get ready to phrase your answers in the form of a question! Weeb Jeopardy is a live a Jeopardy inspired anime trivia showdown where fans compete across themed categories from the classics to new animes, voice actors, music, memes, and more. Contestants face off using a point board and fast-paced buzz-in rules to see who will rise to the top and win prizes. Whether you play or cheer from the audience, this is a fun, energetic, all-ages anime game show you won’t want to miss!

Reading in schools is bland and has no flavor in English, History, or Science Class. Students get bored about subjects and sometimes cannot apply their imagination to stories like Julius Ceasar (Shakespeare), Beowulf, or Pride & Prejudice (Jane Austen). The problem is that they need something more attune to modern day situations. In the anime world, there is always the high class versus the lower classes, the lone wolf trying to stop a monster, and the heroic anime character who dies abruptly and is avenged by the reliable friend. A royal family where their birthright is key to providing the family with honor like Silva, Vermillion, or Kira family in Black Clover. The lone wolf from a prestigious family that has a nine-tailed fox demon that forms a bond with the human they are trapped inside like Naruto. The scene of Roy Mustang avenging his friend after the Homunculi kills him. In the Manga world, it is a quirk that grants superhuman abilities and powers to an individual which is genetically manifested when they are at a very young age leading onto adult life. That quirk can also come from students learning, analyzing and adapting to any situation faster and on the fly. These situations and scenarios provide both happiness and sense of accomplishment toward being a hero.

Do you know where Star Wars got its start? How about The Mandalorian? Where did the 36 pints of anime blood spray originate? Join DeeseyCosplay as they explore the lasting and oft forgotten legacy of Samurai cinema. From the duels of the chanbara film to the character driven jidai period drama, come and investigate connections to modern favorites that you may never considered, and hopefully, you walk away with new found appreciation for old school cool.