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Room Name Day Panelist Saved
Main Events Panel Room 1 Panel Room 2 Panel Room 3 Panel Room 4 Panel Room 5 Autographs Convention Lobby
Friday Saturday Sunday
Alyxe Khei Sanha Kang Cherri Blossoms Heather Walker Tyler Walker Elyssa Alexis Rachel Schumacher Iridescent Nexus Snuffy Cosplay Part Time Dragons Anime Con Boomers Allen_Chan_32 Animomma Mia The OC Doctor Shweetie Monapoli Cos Filthy Weeb Productions Britney Hamada Barry Yandell Tea Party Or Death Jules Official Event AnimeGarrus Far Cry Fae Ma’rinah AmberBonquiqui Kohei Tom Fahn Dorothy Fahn Chaospeoplecosplay Lane O’Brien Tristan Sites Greg Ayres Alex Mai Ethan Gallardo Henry Schrader Mike Pollock Robert L. Mungle Newman Kav + Goldshi Andy Field ahogehope ReCrisis Echoing Starfield Shinichi Watanabe Oscar Seung kioandrews Jay Hickman Forbidden Fandom Dames James as James Reece S1dewinder Live Entertainment Luna Everywhere Scrungus Nether Waifus Owen Smith TheKpopHag Anubis UNiX Samurai Dan and Jillian Bryan Massey Kryptonite Dainte Kaiba Link Jacob Eiseman Phil Parsons Blaze The Cat Tokiko Nate Ian Russell Brook DGD Brownsmagic Gareth West Caouspeoplecosplays AngelsKingdom The Obento Lady Kyauna Smith El Mister Otaki Chicago Trivia Guys Tippie Kira Universe Dante Kaiba Bayek The Pandalorian Kav Grace Gloomcat Leraldo Anzaldua Kat Echoing Starfeild Sensei Vince and Sensei Kyle Sweggy Chris John El Mister Otaki & The_meme_dealer karmennie Author Sara Fujimura DJ Signal

Friday

Historical Hetalia World Championship!
Friday: 12:00pm - 12:50pm • Panel Room 1
Hetalia panel in 2026? Well, yes! Join the countries of the world to test your knowledge on world history, from ancient Egypt to the Cold War and beyond! Prizes for winners and participants, all are welcome to join!
How to Host A Panel
Friday: 12:00pm - 12:50pm • Panel Room 2
Have you ever looked at this list, and said to yourself "I want to be on here, but I have no idea where to start"? Well, you're in luck! Join us, who have been performing panels for well over a decade, to learn how to give the best panel you can give!
Socializing with Social Anxiety
Friday: 12:00pm - 12:50pm • Panel Room 3
Socializing can be very difficult, especially if one suffers from social anxiety. An anime convention can be a great place to meet others with social difficulties, but if no one knows where to start, it can become awkward quick. Come to this panel to learn about socializing with social anxiety, led by a pastor who suffers from social anxiety himself.
Mastering Manga: Friday Hands-On Workshop with Britney Hamada Recommended
Friday: 12:00pm - 1:50pm • Panel Room 4
The Doctor is In! Original Characters 101!
Friday: 12:00pm - 12:50pm • Panel Room 5
Have you created an original character? It’s a good character, but do you want to make that character better? More evil? More relatable? More three-dimensional? You’re in luck! For I, The OC Doctor, am here to help! Relatable flaws, easily understandable goals, a moral code, or lack thereof! All these traits, techniques, and more will help you make your best original character! Trust me. I’m a Doctor.
Aliens, Villains & Freaks :Q&A with Barry Yandell Recommended
Friday: 1:00pm - 1:50pm • Panel Room 1
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.
Ye Olde Vocaloid Songs
Friday: 1:00pm - 1:50pm • Panel Room 2
Here ye! Here ye! Gather round. We’re going back to the Nico-era vault for Vocaloid classics, forgotten favorites, and songs that walked so today’s hits could run. Join the listening party and discussion (and maybe walk away with a new song from the olden days).
K-Pop Trivia
Friday: 1:00pm - 1:50pm • Panel Room 3
Think you know your K-pop boy groups? Join us for a Kahoot, and 1 vs 1 trivia game! Everyone is welcome to participate! Feel the Adrenaline and Do It as a participant or Fact Check as a spectator! All ages are welcome!! :D
Shipping Wars
Friday: 1:00pm - 1:50pm • Panel Room 5
The battlefield drenched in blood and bathed in fire, light shone upon many ships, standing tall and proud. However, only one will be allowed to sail forth and become the best. Do you think that you can support your ship against all attackers and prove once and for all that your ship is the best?
Opening Ceremonies Recommended
Friday: 2:00pm - 2:50pm • Main Events
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!
I'm Commander Shepard and this is my favorite con in the midwest
Friday: 2:00pm - 2:50pm • Panel Room 2
In the year 2148, explorers on Mars discovered the remains of an ancient spacefaring civilization. They called it the greatest discovery in human history. The civilizations of the galaxy call it... MASS EFFECT!! Come on down for a lore deep of the mass effect. Details like behind the scenes, bits of overlooked mythos and secrets will about the Epic Sci fi classic will be shared and discussed. See you there and until then ASSUMING DIRECT CONTROL.
So, You think you know Twisted Wonderland?
Friday: 2:00pm - 2:50pm • Panel Room 3
Bonjour! So you think you know Twisted Wonderland better than I, Rook Hunt? Oui! I shall take you up on that challenge for I am the best huntsman known to man and I simply cannot let you outclass my wits infront of my dear Housewarden, the bright and shining Vil Schoenheit. Join Vil and I for a Twisted Wonderland themed quiz and show me I still have room to grow in my knowledge to impress my brightest star, Vil. Best me, and you shall be rewarded with little trinkets made with love and care from yours truly.
D&D Jeopardy w/ Ma’rinah the Bard!
Friday: 2:00pm - 2:50pm • Panel Room 4
Do you want to show off your Dungeons & Dragons cosplays? Are you eager to school your peers in D&D trivia? Stop by for some fantasy-related fun with our D&D Jeopardy panel! (There will be prizes for participation!)
Anime Voice Challenge
Friday: 2:00pm - 2:50pm • Panel Room 5
5 rounds, 2 Winners!! Let us hear your best Ara Ara! An anime voice challenge where the audience chooses the voice that sounds the closest to a voice actors. Top 2 voices will when a prize!!!
Japanese Culture and Fashion with Kohei Recommended
Friday: 3:00pm - 3:50pm • Panel Room 1
Join guest Kohei in learning about Japanese food, fashion, language, and culture
Advice for Aspiring Voice Actors w/ Tom and Dorothy Fahn Recommended
Friday: 3:00pm - 3:50pm • Panel Room 2
Let’s talk about VO! How we got here, how you can get started – and be ready for some volunteer audience participation on the mic! Volunteers will receive a little thank-you gift!
Love in a bottle day for q/an and truth or dare (18+)
Friday: 3:00pm - 3:50pm • Panel Room 4
Come join drag angel, alastor and others for a q/a about your broadway show in hell! We will have alergey free candy so everyone get a chance to answer questions also truth or dare!!
Remember That Time DK Had a Cartoon
Friday: 3:00pm - 3:50pm • Panel Room 5
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!
Animecon.org's Fabulous Date Auction (15+)
Friday: 4:00pm - 5:20pm • Main Events
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.
Ranting, Raving, and Rolling Thunder - An hour with Greg Ayres Recommended
Friday: 4:00pm - 4:50pm • Panel Room 1
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).
What it's like to be a voice actor. Recommended
Friday: 4:00pm - 4:50pm • Panel Room 2
Comedy Workshop with Robert L. Mungle Recommended
Friday: 4:00pm - 4:50pm • Panel Room 3
Learn the art of comedy from a seasoned professional in this engaging workshop. Robert L. Mungle will share insider tips and techniques to help you craft your unique comedic style.
Anime Trivia Kahoot
Friday: 4:00pm - 4:50pm • Panel Room 4
Anime. Trivia. Kahoot. It’s that simple. Here’s your chance to try answering questions about popular anime shows (and maybe a few that aren’t quite as popular). There will be multiple rounds of trivia Kahoots featuring multiple-choice questions, so anyone with a smartphone or tablet can play and have a chance to win prizes (pieces of burnt wood.) We’ll play as many rounds as we have time for, so drop by, have some fun and see how much you really know about anime shows.
Is it an Umamusume or a Bath and Body works Scent?
Friday: 4:00pm - 4:50pm • Panel Room 5
Racehorse names come in many different types and styles, but how good are you at distinguishing between that and a scent sold at bath and body works? Come put your knowledge to the test and win some prizes along the way!
Alex Mai, Ethan Gallardo, Henry Schrader, Mike Pollock
Friday: 5:00pm - 5:50pm • Autographs
Five Nights at Freddy’s Q&A Recommended
Friday: 5:00pm - 5:50pm • Panel Room 1
Line up at the mic and ask all of your Five Nights at Freddy’s questions! Andy Field, the voice actor of HandUnit, will give his best answers!
Five Nights Before: FNaF in the Early Days
Friday: 5:00pm - 5:50pm • Panel Room 2
With a series now boasting over a dozen games, two feature length films, and numerous series of books, it’s easy to forget where it all began. We’ll go over a brief history of what the landscape of Five Nights at Freddy’s was like from 2014-2018 and finish things off with a round of trivia to earn prizes!
Anime Song Versus
Friday: 5:00pm - 5:50pm • Panel Room 3
Think you know anime songs by heart? Then stop on by to our panel, where we will put those skills to the test, only with a twist as we have broken the songs down to their instrumental parts. Bop your head to the beat, let bass reverb your soul and see if you are quick enough to name the tune before your opponent does!
Armor Academy: Chainmail Bracelet
Friday: 5:00pm - 5:50pm • Panel Room 4
In this workshop, we will teach the basics of making chainmail, and leave you with a small bracelet or necklace forged by your own hands. There will be a 25 dollar materials fee to participate, but any may observe for free.
Nene's Guide to Mermaiding
Friday: 5:00pm - 5:50pm • Panel Room 5
Join Kusanagi Nene and her mermaid friend from the Illinois Mer-Pod and learn about mermaids and how to become one. Find out what is safe to wear, getting certified and more!
Greg Ayres, Shinichi Watanabe
Friday: 6:00pm - 6:50pm • Autographs
Cosplay World Crown Recommended
Friday: 6:00pm - 6:50pm • Main Events
Endless Summer: A City Pop Documentary
Friday: 6:00pm - 6:50pm • Panel Room 1
Endless Summer: A City Pop Documentary, screening and Q&A
Voice Actor Masterclass with Oscar Seung Recommended
Friday: 6:00pm - 6:50pm • Panel Room 2
Interested in voice acting? Full-time film, tv, and voice actor, Oscar Seung, spills ALL the tea. Zero gatekeeping in this panel. From breaking down a script, to audition tips and tricks, Oscar reveals his process on how to book and stay booked as an actor
Friendship Panel
Friday: 6:00pm - 6:50pm • Panel Room 3
Looking to make new friends? Look no further! Come join us for action backed adventures with the Best Host in the World.
"Next quest Anime Midwest!"
Friday: 6:00pm - 6:50pm • Panel Room 4
Come and join the crew from Epic as they work together to complete their next quest, before they are able to return back to their homeland.
Pico Park Panic
Friday: 6:00pm - 6:50pm • Panel Room 5
Do you hate yourself? Do you hate your friends? Well come on over to Idia and Blue’s game night where you can subject yourself AND your friends to Pico park. A game where you get to play as adorable little cats in levels that require cooperation, and you can either help them out, or screw them over! Wee hee hee...
Japan & Mexico: Connections
Friday: 7:00pm - 7:50pm • Panel Room 1
Japan & Mexico: Connections between two countries and an ocean.
Akame ga Parasyte Wars Academia - Voiceover Q&A with Jay Hickman Recommended
Friday: 7:00pm - 7:50pm • Panel Room 2
Jay began his career in anime in the 1990s, when he landed his first role at ADV Films in Master of Mosquiton. Since then, he has appeared in more than 100 titles with studios including ADV Films, Funimation, Sentai Filmworks, Switchblade Pictures, Okratron 5000, and others. As a character actor, Jay has been able to voice a broad variety of colorful roles, with the occasional romantic lead thrown in for good measure. His notable credits over the past two decades are Mechazawa in Cromartie High School, Spitfire in Air Gear, Sho Zama in Aura Battler Dunbine, Shiryu in Saint Seiya, Chuu and Hammond in One Piece, Kagetane Hiruko in Black Bullet, Chief Kurama in Elfen Lied, Koji in Generator Gawl, Toru Watanabe in Excel Saga, The Fool in Kaleido Star, Crusty in Log Horizon, SSS in Madlax, Dera Mochimazzi in Tamako Market, Sanetoshi Watase in Penguindrum, Prince Mytho in Princess Tutu, and Giraffe in Revue Starlight, among many others. Jay’s voice has also been featured in the live action features Dark Water, Synesthesia, Conduct Zero, The Fuccons, Touching Wild Horses, Gamera – Attack of Legion, as well as in the video game Unlimited Saga. Jay had his Toonami debut playing Dr. Stylish in Akame ga KILL!, followed by Shiro Kuramori in Parasyte – the maxim, Joichiro Yukihira in Food Wars!, and most recently, Taneo Tokuda in My Hero Academia.
FFD: Nerdleqsue Q&A (18+)
Friday: 7:00pm - 7:50pm • Panel Room 3
Have you ever wondered what burlesque is? Thought about joining a troupe? The Dames would love to answer any questions you have. Tips on auditioning, costumes, as well as building a solid routine.
Adapting for ADR with Tyler & Heather Walker Recommended
Friday: 7:00pm - 7:50pm • Panel Room 4
Description: Tyler and Heather Walker, will give you some insight into the world of ADR work for anime. Covering scripting and adaptation, filling the flaps, and finding a voice & vocabulary for your characters before recording begins.
Railing the Stars: Honkai Star Rail FMK! (18+)
Friday: 7:00pm - 7:50pm • Panel Room 5
Join the Stellaron Hunters & decide how you’d like to spend your night with your favorite characters! Your choices are: wed, bed, or behead! Audience decides all, so make it count! Participation awards included!
Indie Game Design Made Easy
Friday: 8:00pm - 8:50pm • Panel Room 1
Indie Game Design Made Easy: How to launch your game quickly and successfully
Disability Awareness with Bluey
Friday: 8:00pm - 8:50pm • Panel Room 2
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.
How2Breakcore
Friday: 8:00pm - 8:50pm • Panel Room 3
Breakcore has seen a great resurgence using the aesthetics of anime and other nostalgic proprieties from the early Internet. Using the power of sampling, drum breaks, synths, and other fun tools, I'll be here to teach you how to make a hot song all the AMVs will use.
How to Improve Your Roleplaying
Friday: 8:00pm - 8:50pm • Panel Room 4
So many nerds get really into Tabletop RPGs, wanting to be just like the people they hear on their favorite podcasts. We can't get you all the way there - those guys have editing teams - but we can get you a lot closer. Join us as we talk about how to set yourself up to be the best at role playing you can be, from the start of the game to the very end.
Oshi Wars (18+)
Friday: 8:00pm - 8:50pm • Panel Room 5
Join us for an electrifying debate at "Oshi Wars," where all come together to argue the burning question: Who is the best Vtuber? Participants will delve into the vibrant world of virtual YouTubers, championing their favorite oshis with fervor and flair. Whether you're a die-hard Vtuber fan or have no idea what one is, "Oshi Wars" promises to be an unforgettable clash of fans.
Cosplay Prom Prep Rally
Friday: 8:30pm - 8:50pm • Main Events
If you’re looking for a great way to make new friends while getting hyped up for the Cosplay Prom, look no further than our Pre-Prom Prep Rally, hosted by our Live Entertainment Department! We’ll practice dancing, play fun games, and enjoy some time to get to know one another before the big dance!
Let’s get tied by NABESHIN (18+) Recommended
Friday: 9:00pm - 9:50pm • Panel Room 1
Nabeshin's rope bondage panel. Learn techniques from the master.
Cryptids, Mysteries, and More: The Weird Side of Reality
Friday: 9:00pm - 9:50pm • Panel Room 2
You may think you have reality figured out, but you aren’t even close. The world is full of strange happenings that defy explanation. Come on down as we discuss your favorite, cryptids, mysteries, strange disappearances, ghosts, UFOs, and anything else that falls on the weird side of reality.
The Unhinged World of Wrestling Cartoons and Anime
Friday: 9:00pm - 9:50pm • Panel Room 3
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
Armor Academy: Chainmail Plushie
Friday: 9:00pm - 9:50pm • Panel Room 4
In this panel, we will teach how to make an entire shirt of chainmail – scaled down to plushie size! Bring your own plushie, or use one of the stuffed animals provided. There will be a 25 dollar materials fee to participate, but any may observe for free.
Japanese Angels and Demons
Friday: 9:00pm - 9:50pm • Panel Room 5
There are many angelic and demonic figures in anime and Japanese video games from the cute angel girls to the biblically accurate angels and from the typical ram monster to mythological references. But where are they from? What inspired their design and powers? These depictions are based on a mixture of religious references from within Japan and from across the world. In this panel, we will go through examples to show how Japan mixes religions to create unique characters that both pays homage to the original source while going forward in a different direction.
Late Night Anime Dance Recommended
Friday: 10:00pm - 12:50am • Main Events
Get your energy out and work up a sweat in this heart-healthy epic dance party! Join AnimeCon.org's resident DJ Greg Ayres and many incredible guest performers as they help you waste the night away with an electric mix of hard-hitting and fun dance music. Experience the bass from the subwoofers as your face melts off thanks to such sick beats. We promise an experience filled with epic music, incredible sounds, and a great light show to boot. No bags allowed in. Strobe lights may be used.
Bad Yaoi
Friday: 10:00pm - 11:50pm • Panel Room 2
Reading yaoi has been a favorite pastime for many anime fans out there. Us panelists have brought to you a collection of some of the worst Yaois out there. Beware however some of these Yaoi are more for the brave of heart. Join us and many more Yaoi fans as we discuss the good, the mostly bad and the mostly ugly Yaoi different media has to offer.
Pitch Your Hentai! (18+)
Friday: 10:00pm - 10:50pm • Panel Room 3
We're back again, and ready to get your hentai pitches based on our array of themes. Come join us for a few games around pitching hentai ideas, and see just who manages to give the best pitches of the con!
An Introduction to Japanese Pink Film
Friday: 10:00pm - 10:50pm • Panel Room 4
Pink film is a type of erotic filmmaking unique to Japanese culture. Although often compared to Western sexploitation films, pink film is a genre with a distinct tradition and interesting history that is overlooked by overseas movie-watchers. Join us for a primer into the more scandalous and obscene side of Japanese filmmaking; its origins, legacy, and ongoing impact on modern Japanese film culture.
Intro to Kamen Rider
Friday: 10:00pm - 10:50pm • Panel Room 5
Kamen Rider is a huge tokusatsu (live-action superhero) series like Super Sentai and Ultraman, being referenced by anime and the Pokemon games alike. However, where does one start if they wish to jump into the series? This panel will offer an introduction to the series, explaining common motifs, available media, and a peek into different series so that any future fans of Kamen Rider know what they may be getting into.
♡Nether Rave♡ 18+
Friday: 11:00pm - 11:50pm • Panel Room 3
The Nether Waifus are back at it again with THE NETHER rave! ( ▀ ͜͞ʖ▀) A night blending rhythm and fandom with anime hits, 2000s throwbacks, EDM, techno, bass, and kpop to keep you moving all night. THE NETHER rave is your chance to escape the overworld and dance into the night. One night. All the genres. Infinite vibes. You do NOT want to miss it. (Attendees need to be 18+ to enter)
Go Sonic!! Zap to the extreme !!: A Live Reading (18+)
Friday: 11:00pm - 11:50pm • Panel Room 4
The beloved blue hedgehog has been part of the mainstream for decades. Because of that, many strange and very entertaining fan fics have been written involving Sonic. So come on down and we will read the most notorious among them.
Cards Against Anime
Friday: 11:00pm - 11:50pm • Panel Room 5
The popular party game, with an anime twist! Teams will be formed in the room directly before play starts. Teams will compete to see who can come up with the best (or worst) answer to a black card prompt. Everyone who plays gets a prize!

Saturday

Armor Academy: Wasteland Armor
Saturday: 9:00am - 9:50am • Panel Room 4
If the world is going to end, you might as well look the part. In this panel, we will teach you the basics of working sheet metal, and leave you with a spiked pauldron (a shoulder guard) forged by your own hands. There will be a 25 dollar materials fee to participate, but any may observe for free.
Chiikawa 101: For Adults!
Saturday: 9:00am - 9:50am • Panel Room 5
Learn about Chiikawa, why its so popular, and why you should watch/read it! In this panel I'll give you a rundown of the appeal of Chiikawa, and why everybody wont stop talking about it.
The Actor's Launch: Advanced Voice Acting W/ Barry Yandell Recommended
Saturday: 9:30am - 10:20am • Main Events
Explore Barry Yandell's 7 Step, user friendly approach for voice acting.
Attempting to Explain FNaF Speedrun
Saturday: 9:30am - 10:20am • Panel Room 2
The internet will have you believe this is the most complicated video game story ever told and they are correct. Today I’m going to attempt to give an overview of the original series (up to the end of UCN), so even people who are completely unfamiliar with it should be able to follow along. If you’ve been with the franchise since 2014 like I have or if you just want to know what all the fuss is about, join me for an hour to discuss the broader strokes of this convoluted story.
TheKpopHag’s Random Play Dance
Saturday: 9:30am - 10:20am • Panel Room 3
Focusing on 2nd & 3rd generation Kpop artists, TheKpopHag’s Random Play Dance is back for another year!
Neurodivergence in the Anime Fan Community
Saturday: 10:00am - 10:50am • Panel Room 1
Many neurodivergent people belong to the anime fan community. Listen to a neurodivergent anime fan discuss the reasons why neurodivergent people enjoy anime, issues neurodivergent people can face at anime conventions, and how the anime fan community can be more understanding of its neurodivergent fans.
Bikini Bottom Kahoot
Saturday: 10:00am - 10:50am • Panel Room 4
Are you ready for the best day ever of Spongebob Squarepants trivia? We’re setting the dial to W for Wumbo and getting ready to use our imaginations for another year of Bikini Bottom Kahoot! There will be multiple rounds of multiple choice questions covering the first 100 episodes of Spongebob (you know, the good stuff), and it’s a Kahoot, so anyone with a smartphone or tablet can take part. We’ll have Spongebob-themed prizes and plenty of Krabby Patties, so swim on in and join the fun!
Fantasy Foodies
Saturday: 10:00am - 10:50am • Panel Room 5
In this panel we will be talking about different fantasy foods and what they may taste like, and how to cook them. Answering the questions such as what does a pokemon taste like? Can Lembas bread actually fill you up? If we can't source our own walking armor is store bought fine?
All Cosplay Meetup!
Saturday: 10:30am - 11:20am • Panel Room 3
Come all anime cosplayers! This panel will be a big meet up for cosplayers from all anime shows! Group photo at the end!
UNiX Dance - K-pop Random Dance Play Recommended
Saturday: 11:00am - 11:50am • Convention Lobby
The Way Of The Samurai Recommended
Saturday: 11:00am - 11:50am • Main Events
Samurai; the ancient, majestic warrior class of Japan's 12th-19th centuries. In this main stage event the majestic, mystic, and poetic swordsmanship of Japan’s mighty warriors are brought to life with style and power. This authentic display includes an abundance of precision, skill, and of all things, humor. This fast-paced show mixes comedy and combat in a dizzying trip to 16th century Japan.
Meet Bryan Massey Recommended
Saturday: 11:00am - 11:50am • Panel Room 1
Come meet special guest Bryan Massey for a Q&A! In the animated world, he voices roles such as Crimson Riot in My Hero Academia, Oolong in Dragon Ball Z Kai & Dragon Ball Super, Ladd Russo in Baccano!, Zonge in Toriko, Shark in My Bride Is A Mermaid, Notorious in Ninja Slayer, Jacob Lessio from Fairy Tail, Monkey Dragon in One Piece, Issac McDougal in Full Metal Alchemist: Brotherhood, Cocytus in Overlord, Rades from Black Clover, Dick Gumshoe in Ace Attorney, Jerry from D. Gray Man, Dolph from Space Dandy, Bill in Shin Chan, and many others.
The Good, the Bad, and the plain Weird from the voice acting world with Rob Mungle! Recommended
Saturday: 11:00am - 11:50am • Panel Room 2
Rob Mungle has worked on shows for FUNimation, ADV Films, Seraphim Digital/Sentai Filmworks, and OkraTron 5000. Talk with him about all kinds of anime stuff, including the good, the bad, and the weird.
Japanese Origami Workshop
Saturday: 11:00am - 11:50am • Panel Room 4
Tells Us About Your OCs! (We won’t judge)
Saturday: 11:00am - 11:50am • Panel Room 5
More people should hear about your OC more, don’t you think? This is the prime opportunity for a chance to tell an entire room of weirdos all about your special little blorbo! We won’t judge (probably).
How to Be A Voice Actor from a Flyover State Recommended
Saturday: 12:00pm - 12:50pm • Panel Room 1
Everything you ever needed to know about how to become a voice actor without living in Los Angeles or New York.
Anime AITA (18+)
Saturday: 12:00pm - 12:50pm • Panel Room 2
Many people find themselves in interpersonal conflicts and ask themselves, "Am I the one in the wrong here?". When that doubt arises, they often turn to the be-all end-all of conflict judgement... Reddit! As it turns out, anime characters do the same thing! In this panel, we'll take a look at some characters' posts about their conflicts and determine who's in the wrong. Is it the poster, the other person, or does everybody suck? You decide!
Japanese Karate Demonstration
Saturday: 12:00pm - 12:50pm • Panel Room 3
Mastering Manga: Saturday Hands-On Workshop with Britney Hamada Recommended
Saturday: 12:00pm - 1:50pm • Panel Room 4
Lilia's Farewell Party
Saturday: 12:00pm - 12:50pm • Panel Room 5
Ever had to say goodbye to a close friend? Well Join Malleus and Lilia for a final farewell party with game and memories before Lilia sets off to Land of the Red Dragon. Feel free to stop on by and wish this adventurous Fae safe travels and spend some time with him before he POOF disappears... Or catches some Z's
Anime Improv LIVE! (13+)
Saturday: 12:30pm - 1:50pm • Main Events
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?)
Meet Anime Voice Actors - Q&A Session Recommended
Saturday: 1:00pm - 1:50pm • Panel Room 1
K-pop Random Dance
Saturday: 1:00pm - 1:50pm • Panel Room 3
You love to dance? You wanna be somewhere that you can be yourself? Well, come on and dance your heart to kpop. It’s the fun time of your life and you get to show off your moves to the music.
Gotta Ketchum all!!: Celebrating 30 years of Pokemon
Saturday: 1:00pm - 1:50pm • Panel Room 5
This year will be the 30 year anniversary of Pokemon as a franchise. The best way to celebrate is to look back on the series. Its origins and later games movies and shows. Each generation will get its own analysis and discussion.
Japanese Koto Demonstration
Saturday: 1:30pm - 2:20pm • Panel Room 2
Konnichiwa (Hello) NABESHIN Recommended
Saturday: 2:00pm - 2:50pm • Panel Room 1
Meet Nabeshin, famed Japanese director of shows such as Excel Saga and Puni Puni Poemy.
Niten (Two-sword) Class Recommended
Saturday: 2:00pm - 2:50pm • Panel Room 3
What's better than a sword? Is it a shield? A hammer? No, how about TWO SWORDS! Come learn the methods of two sword fighting, made famous by Miyamoto Musashi, the greatest samurai of them all! Class taught by one of the only swordsmen skilled in samurai dual-wielding.
Convention Picture Bingo
Saturday: 2:00pm - 3:20pm • Panel Room 4
We are back BIGGER and BETTER than last year. Better bingo cards, more categories, and especially more fun prizes now including autographed merch from some of your favorite voice actors.
Quiplash Attack
Saturday: 2:00pm - 2:50pm • Panel Room 5
Welcome to Quiplash Attack! Play a round with us and compete for prizes. Play with peers or on your own. Who knows what silly fun will happen in Quiplash.
Tom Fahn, Dorothy Fahn, Jacob Eiseman, Mike Pollock, Phil Parsons, Alex Mai
Saturday: 2:30pm - 3:20pm • Autographs
Japanese Anime Singalong Dance Party w/ Kohei!! Recommended
Saturday: 2:30pm - 3:20pm • Main Events
Join vocal artist Kohei in singing some of your most beloved anime theme songs! From Naruto to My Hero Academia and even some Demon Slayer, come witness the vocal stylings of an awesome musical performer. All ages welcome!
Directing and Auditioning in Anime w/ Tyler Walker Recommended
Saturday: 3:00pm - 3:50pm • Panel Room 1
Tyler Walker, voiceover director, will give you some insight into the world of directing for anime and auditioning for parts.
Bringing Characters to Life - Secrets from the Recording Booth Workshop Recommended
Saturday: 3:00pm - 3:50pm • Panel Room 2
In this interactive session Ian lifts the lid on some of the tricks of the trade, like how do Voice Actors take the words in the story and make the characters come to life. From running and jumping to lifting, carrying, fighting and dying, how do we achieve that from inside our little foam lined box. Followed by an open Q&A.
Anyone can Improv!
Saturday: 3:00pm - 3:50pm • Panel Room 3
Improv is a fun way of making your own characters, stories, jokes, and friends! At this panel, you will learn and be able to participate in a few improv games yourself. We hope to bring the fun of improv to you and offer a great opportunity to socialize. All skill levels welcome!
Lies, Damn Lies and 3D Printing: Truths for Noobs
Saturday: 3:00pm - 3:50pm • Panel Room 5
3D printing something is as easy as pressing a button, right? No. Well, at least not yet. Internet experts that have been doing it for years make it look so easy. People buy FDM & resin printers and expect the same (perfect) results immediately. But once you spend 30 minutes testing one setting, you might start regretting your life choices. With 12+ years of printing experience and working with dozens of printers, I can tell you that vendors lie and sponsored content creators get more support from printer companies than you ever will. We will look at some of the new generation of printers, what you might expect as a new user and maybe get closer to perfection sooner.
How to make a manga
Saturday: 3:30pm - 4:20pm • Panel Room 4
Do you have a story you want to tell? In this panel I will show you how to make a manga the easy way!
UNiX Dance - K-pop Random Dance Play Recommended
Saturday: 4:00pm - 4:50pm • Convention Lobby
It Gets Better - Anime Con Edition with Greg Ayres Recommended
Saturday: 4:00pm - 5:20pm • Panel Room 1
Let's Play! with Gareth West Recommended
Saturday: 4:00pm - 4:50pm • Panel Room 2
Join one of the newest voices in the anime world while he plays Nonorelia, an exciting new visual novel and puzzle game!
Demon Slayer at a rave?
Saturday: 4:00pm - 4:50pm • Panel Room 3
Join the crew from Demon Slayers are they prepare for their first time going to a rave.
Genshin Impact: beetle battle worlds
Saturday: 4:00pm - 4:50pm • Panel Room 5
Join Arataki Itto in hosting another beetle battle event many different characters will join to check out the event and have fun
Cards against heros
Saturday: 4:30pm - 5:20pm • Panel Room 4
Our annual cards against hero’s but this time the pros came down for a “pro hero exercise”
Japanese Music Demonstration - Koto
Saturday: 5:00pm - 5:50pm • Convention Lobby
Cosplay Contest Recommended
Saturday: 5:00pm - 5:50pm • Main Events
Q&A With Tom & Dorothy Fahn! Recommended
Saturday: 5:00pm - 5:50pm • Panel Room 2
We’ve had pretty long careers... you may have questions! Come ask us those burning queries about how we started out, roles we’ve played, or anything else within reason!
Kpop Random Dance (Old and New)
Saturday: 5:00pm - 5:50pm • Panel Room 3
Don't be a Troublemaker and come to our panel instead! We'll be playing a variety of new and old songs during this K-Pop Random Dance! So, if you're ready to Go Hard, join us!
WAIFU WARS?!?!?!?!?!?!
Saturday: 5:00pm - 5:50pm • Panel Room 5
Do you think you have the best Waifu, do you want to tell everyone why your Waifu is the best there is, well show her off at the war of the Waifus!!!!!
Greg Ayres, Shinichi Watanabe
Saturday: 5:30pm - 6:20pm • Autographs
Armor Academy: Scale Mail Gauntlet
Saturday: 5:30pm - 6:20pm • Panel Room 4
Have you ever wanted to make your own scale mail? During this workshop, we will teach you the basics of making scale armor, and leave you with a scale gauntlet made by your own hands. There will be a 25 dollar materials fee to participate, but any are welcome to watch.
Obento 101
Saturday: 6:00pm - 6:50pm • Panel Room 2
Obento, or boxed meal, is an art form in Japan, but what if you don’t want to spend an hour a day making your lunch? Let The Obento Lady show you how to take your American favorites from drab to fab in ten minutes or less per night. Learn how to make quick, healthy, tasty, kawaii lunches that will be the envy of everybody at your lunch table.
Dating Advice for Filthy Weebs
Saturday: 6:00pm - 6:50pm • Panel Room 3
The world of dating is complicated, and anime conventions aren't known for having the most socially adept attendees. We're here to help. Come to us with your questions, and we'll give the advice you need to hear. We aim to create an accepting space where anyone can come forward with sensitive questions. Recording is strictly not allowed.
KISSORPIE
Saturday: 6:00pm - 6:50pm • Panel Room 5
Just like Love Island just ANIME/COSPLAYER ADDITION. Everyone comes out to play! there will be 2-4 participants each round. Each player will be randomly selected by the panel and audience. One player will be asked would they rather KISS (hersery kiss) or Pie (shaving cream) their opponent.
Dating Advice from Yuri On Ice Voice Actor, Oscar Seung! Recommended
Saturday: 7:00pm - 7:50pm • Panel Room 1
Who's ready for real talk? Relationships, dating, and marriage, OH MY. Let's de-mystify relationships together!
Movimiento Nortaku: How anime Influenced Mexican Music
Saturday: 7:00pm - 7:50pm • Panel Room 2
A new genre has taken over the anime convention scene! Come and find out how the anime fandom has inspired songs from Mexican artists in the genre of "Regional Mexicana" that are now popular dance numbers, covers, and ballads! Find out the true origin! se habla español!
Nintendo Trivia
Saturday: 7:00pm - 7:50pm • Panel Room 3
Come test your knowledge on Nintendo Trivia with the Chicago Trivia Guys! Loads of fun and all can participate! Everyone wins a door prize and the top team gets a special prize!
Itadakimasu! Let's Make a Romantic Japanese Dinner for Two
Saturday: 7:00pm - 7:50pm • Panel Room 4
Can you boil water and use your oven? If so, The Obento Lady can teach you how to make an authentic Japanese meal, including dessert and a beverage, for your sweetheart. Along the way, she'll entertain you with true stories, random factoids, rules of etiquette, and all the cultural lessons she learned the hard way. **Recipes are included.**
“He Didn’t Do Anything Wrong! …Or Did He? Anime Villain Tier List”
Saturday: 7:00pm - 7:50pm • Panel Room 5
He Didn’t Do Anything Wrong! …Or Did He? Anime Villain Tier List” is a fun, interactive deep-dive into the most iconic antagonists across anime. In this panel, we’ll break down what really makes a villain evil—whether they’re pure chaos, secretly justified, tragically misunderstood, or literally did nothing wrong at all. Expect debates, surprises, audience participation, and a whole lot of moments where you realize you might have been rooting for the bad guy this whole time. Come ready to argue, laugh, and rethink everything you thought you knew about anime villainy as we build the ultimate community-powered tier list live!
Let’s get tied harder by NABESHIN (18+) Recommended
Saturday: 8:00pm - 8:50pm • Panel Room 1
Are you into Rope Bondage? Maybe Rope Bondage is into you! Nabeshin's 2nd part of his rope bondage panel. Learn further techniques from the master. Let's get tied....harder.
Comedy Showcase with Robert L. Mungle (18+) Recommended
Saturday: 8:00pm - 8:50pm • Panel Room 2
Enjoy a night of laughs as Friday's comedy workshop participants step into the spotlight and show their hands. Hopefully their hands are full of jokes. See their hard work and newfound skills shine, with a special performance by Robert L. Mungle to cap off the event.
Kpop Guess by the...
Saturday: 8:00pm - 8:50pm • Panel Room 3
Come and test your knowledge on kpop songs from 1st gen- 5gen. Will you be able guess the artist/group or songs by sounds, images, video, description, or emoji?
Shut Up and Take My Trivia Kahoot
Saturday: 8:00pm - 8:50pm • Panel Room 4
Good news, everyone! Here’s your chance to test your knowledge about everyone’s favorite show from 30th Century Fox – at a Futurama trivia Kahoot! There will be multiple rounds of multiple-choice questions about Bender the Great (shut up, he knows it) along with Fry, Leela and the rest of the Planet Express crew. Round winners will get prizes, and everyone with a smartphone or tablet can play. So, unless you don’t want to live on this planet anymore, come join the fun and find out if these questions just raise further questions.
Cards Against Humanity with your suggestions!! (+18 ONLY)
Saturday: 8:00pm - 8:50pm • Panel Room 5
Watch some morons all get together and play Cards Against Humanity with a little twist. The twist being that you'll all be the ones writing the cards they gave to choose between! Write whatever you want and we'll have to read it!
When good dubs go bad! (18+) w/ Jay Hickman Recommended
Saturday: 9:00pm - 10:50pm • Panel Room 1
When good dubs go bad!
History of Japanese Anime w/ Kohei Recommended
Saturday: 9:00pm - 9:50pm • Panel Room 2
Come learn about the origin of anime, how it started, and how it's evolved over the years while persevering generation to generation
Kpop Spicy Dance
Saturday: 9:00pm - 9:50pm • Panel Room 3
Some of the spiciest Kpop dances out right now! Come join us and show off your moves!
Cards against hero’s 18+
Saturday: 9:00pm - 9:50pm • Panel Room 4
We are bringing back cards against hero’s this time we have the pros with us?!
Helluva Game Night
Saturday: 9:00pm - 9:50pm • Panel Room 5
Join us at the Hazbin Hotel game night featuring in the living world for your enjoyment! Play games with some of us from hell and chance a way to getting prizes. Maybe even a chance to win your way into heaven with this redemption arc.
Forbidden Fandom Dames: A Nerdlesque Adventure (18+) Recommended
Saturday: 9:30pm - 10:20pm • Main Events
Forbidden Fandom Dames invites you on a teasingly sexy Nerdlesque journey through Anime and Pop Culture.
After hours with BHNA crew
Saturday: 10:00pm - 10:50pm • Panel Room 2
After graduation and working at their new agencies/jobs the former class-1A get together to have a fun time with catching up with everyone and of course some games.
Cosplayer Assassin 101
Saturday: 10:00pm - 10:50pm • Panel Room 3
Ever wondered what it takes to be moan assassin? Look no further! Come learn about becoming an assassin! Assassin’s Creed based panel! All welcome!
Who the Heck are You?! (18+ Edition)
Saturday: 10:00pm - 10:50pm • Panel Room 4
Who the heck are you?! (18+ Edition) Choose a character from our list of over 300 characters from anime, video games, cartoons, and other popular media (This includes adult media such as video games, anime, cartoons, and television series or movies). Say an iconic line, do an iconic pose, or just describe them in a 20 questions fashion. The audience must guess who the heck you are! If there are not enough volunteers, members of the audience will be voluntold!
Don’t Judge a BL by its cover!
Saturday: 10:00pm - 10:50pm • Panel Room 5
He's tall, strong and .. the uke?? Come join us in guessing BL dynamics from the cover art and the vibes alone!
We don't JOKE about Vampires (18+)
Saturday: 11:00pm - 11:50pm • Panel Room 1
What makes a vampire a vampire? Is it just all the blood sucking? Being able to sparkle when you go out into the sun or not going into the sun at all? Is it all just about the aesthetics, attitude, and flare? Come to our panel and find out from us why we don’t joke about vampires, or maybe why we do?
I Can Fix Her: A Tribute to Problematic Waifus. (18+)
Saturday: 11:00pm - 11:50pm • Panel Room 2
Girls! Girls ! Girls ! We love them. We fear them. But certainly can't live without them. But here we will be talking anime women, that are the most troublesome, red flaggish and most of all problematic. We will discuss them on whether they can be fixed or will they be sent to the streets.
Sleepover in Scarabia
Saturday: 11:00pm - 11:50pm • Panel Room 3
Who doesn't want to have a sleepover with me, Kalim Al Asim?! Jamil said no but I think it will be so much fun! Come along in your pj's as we play games and dance dance DANCE! Maybe even nom on some snacks and talk about our time here in NRC! Lets make friends and have the time of our lives! Convince Jamil that sleep overs can be so much fun!
Trash Isekai Bingo (18+)
Saturday: 11:00pm - 11:50pm • Panel Room 4
If you've caught every OP protagonist, harem jump-scare, and convenient RPG stat screen or have never seen a hilariously terrible Isekai, join us for a curated lineup of some of the worst Isekai we could find. All will watch in 2x speed and try to hit Bingo off a card loaded with genre defining staples including "Long Title", "Generic Medieval European Setting" and more.
Hilaribad Anime
Saturday: 11:00pm - 11:50pm • Panel Room 5
Forget anime recommendations. Are you looking for something awful to watch? Something so bad, you'll question your life choices afterwards? Well, you've come to the right panel! Enjoy such hilariously bad plot points as magical girls that turn into soda cans, watching a girl sleep, Sherlock Holmes as a vampire, and more! Trigger warnings for gore, vore, and implied sexual content.
The Mud Puddle Dance Recommended
Saturday: 11:30pm - 1:50am • Main Events
Join us for an incredible and fun Saturday night dance party as our DJs pump up the dance floor with epic electronic beats! AnimeCon.org's regular DJ Greg Ayres and a host of other talented entertainers will pack the house and bring down the roof with some great music to dance to. No bags allowed in. Strobe lights may be used.

Sunday

How to Audition for Voice Acting Roles Recommended
Sunday: 10:00am - 10:50am • Panel Room 1
Be brave and step up to the mic! Or have fun watching the rest of the crowd and just take notes! Get tips on acting from voice actor Andy Field.
Five nights at Freddy’s: the haunt of Midwest
Sunday: 10:00am - 10:50am • Panel Room 2
Join the FNAF team in surviving the takeover of Midwest with party games and fun chaos
Pokemon Trivia
Sunday: 10:00am - 10:50am • Panel Room 3
Come test your knowledge on Pokemon Trivia with the Chicago Trivia Guys! Loads of fun and all can participate! Everyone wins a door prize and the top team wins Pokemon cards!
Armor Academy: Plate Armor
Sunday: 10:00am - 10:50am • Panel Room 4
In this panel, we will teach you how to make your own plate armor, and leave you with a bracer (forearm guard) literally forged by your own hands. There will be a 25 dollar materials fee to participate, but any may observe for free.
I’m literally just going to sit here and read Homestuck.
Sunday: 10:00am - 10:50am • Panel Room 5
It’s exactly what it says on the tin. I’m gonna sit in a chair and spend the entire panel reading out Homestuck for you people. What else do you want? Get over here. (If you’re concerned about spoilers for later in the story, don’t worry, we only do Act 1.)
UNiX Dance - K-pop Random Dance Play Recommended
Sunday: 11:00am - 11:50am • Convention Lobby
Samurai Dan Q&A: Everything Samurai Recommended
Sunday: 11:00am - 11:50am • Main Events
All Things Samurai: Samurai Dan takes the stage, willing to leave no stone unturned. The people managing our zen rock garden are really mad that he keeps turning their stones, please tell him to stop. Ask anything (SFW) and brace yourselves, the answers are coming fast and furious as a sword stroke!
Oscar Seung, Career Nerd: From Bullied to Funimation/Netflix Actor Recommended
Sunday: 11:00am - 11:50am • Panel Room 1
How did a loud, overweight, flamboyant, LGBT, Asian-American immigrant go from being bullied in school, to being a voice actor at Crunchyroll and a film actor on Netflix and Hulu? It all came down to three simple words: I. AM. ENOUGH. Come find out what he means and ask Oscar anything at his panel!
Beyond “There and Back Again”: Frieren and Tolkien’s Influence on Anime
Sunday: 11:00am - 11:50am • Panel Room 3
Frieren has undoubtedly become one of the most well-regarded anime of the past five years. One of Frieren’s most clear influences has been the works of JRR Tolkien, creator of the Hobbit, the Lord of the Rings, and all of Middle Earth. Come on down as we discuss how Frieren is connected to works of Tolkien and how Tolkien’s influence has been felt in anime since his works were first published.
Genshin Impact Jeopardy
Sunday: 11:00am - 11:50am • Panel Room 4
What is Xiao's adeptus form? Who was the first grandmaster of the Knights of Favonious? Why the heck is the Ruin Serpent in the gound for 99% of the battle? All of these questions and more will potentially be answered during our version of the classic game, Jeopardy. Come join us for an hour of fun and fabulous prizes!
Goth Style 101: From Soft Goth to Full Glam
Sunday: 11:00am - 11:50am • Panel Room 5
Curious about goth makeup but not sure where to start? This interactive panel breaks down everything from soft goth to bold, dramatic looks, with a live demo, real-world tips, and a few unexpected tricks. Come learn, watch, and maybe even try it yourself!
Let's make a movie with Nabeshin! Recommended
Sunday: 12:00pm - 12:50pm • Panel Room 1
Let's make a movie with Nabeshin! You too can become an actor or staff member and make a real car movie with Nabeshin in one hour! Aim for Hollywood!
Anime Voice Actors Q&A Recommended
Sunday: 12:00pm - 12:50pm • Panel Room 2
Japanese Karate Demonstration
Sunday: 12:00pm - 12:50pm • Panel Room 3
Mastering Manga: Sunday Hands-On Workshop with Britney Hamada Recommended
Sunday: 12:00pm - 1:50pm • Panel Room 4
An Anime and Japanese Recorder Show
Sunday: 12:30pm - 1:20pm • Main Events
Watch a professional recorder player as he performs anime themes, melodies from Japan that he learned while touring Japan, and popular fan music, all on his recorder.
Evenings with Isabelle Recommended
Sunday: 1:00pm - 2:20pm • Panel Room 1
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.
Chibi Dance & Play Party
Sunday: 1:00pm - 1:50pm • Panel Room 3
Does your little anime fan feel left out because there's so many big kid activities? Come join us for an energetic hour packed with fun mini-games, special wristbands, and a dance party to get everyone moving! Make new friends, collect goodies, and get ready for a party full of fun, games, and the best (kid appropriate) vibes! (This event is ideal for children between the ages of 3-8 and guardians MUST BE PRESENT FOR THE DURATION OF THE PANEL).
Intro to Improv
Sunday: 1:00pm - 1:50pm • Panel Room 5
Have you ever done Improv for school, Events, theater or just as an icebreaker? Have you ever wanted to learn how to? Join us today as we go over some basics about blocking, continuing a story and how to have fun while playing fun games where you as the audience can participate!
Leraldo Anzaldua, Jacob Eiseman, Mike Pollock, Phil Parsons, Alex Mai
Sunday: 1:30pm - 2:20pm • Autographs
Hypnosis Show with Gareth West Recommended
Sunday: 2:00pm - 2:50pm • Main Events
Come join Gareth as he mesmerizes and hypnotizes for a good cause! This is a fundraiser for The Houston Methodist Transplant Center.
GUESS THAT YUGIOH CARD
Sunday: 2:00pm - 2:50pm • Panel Room 2
You think you know your Yu-Gi-Oh! cards? Well come test your knowledge and let's see if the heart of the cards is with you.
Pressure Points for Self Defense
Sunday: 2:00pm - 2:50pm • Panel Room 3
Are Pressure Points real? What are they really? Can you actually use them in a fight? Time to find out! Come learn from trained martial artists in this hands-on panel how to find and utilize pressure points in a self defense application, and how that knowledge has informed and enhanced our training. Any level of martial arts experience is welcome, whether you've been training for years or have never thrown a punch in your life!
DIY Leathercraft: Leather Armor
Sunday: 2:00pm - 2:50pm • Panel Room 4
In this panel, we will teach you the basics of how to make leather armor, and leave you with a custom leather bracer made by your own hands. There will be a 25 dollar materials fee, but any are welcome to watch.
Anime? Speak On It!
Sunday: 2:00pm - 2:50pm • Panel Room 5
Do you watch anime? Do you want to speak on it? Audience members will join in 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!!
Umamusume: Pretty Derby Trivia Gameshow
Sunday: 3:00pm - 3:50pm • Panel Room 1
Think you know Umamusume: Pretty Derby? Come join Gold Ship and her trainer for our Jeopardy style trivia panel featuring questions about the anime, game, characters, music, and the real racehorses behind the series. Play along with the contestants and see who really knows their Uma trivia.
Mexico X Japan: 400 yr old amigos
Sunday: 3:00pm - 3:50pm • Panel Room 2
Find out the long history Japan has with Mexico that dates back to the time of the Samurai which includes diplomatic and trade relationships. Japan calls it a “400 year old friendship”. Also, why was anime banned in Mexico during the 2000s? The truth will shock you! Also, are Spanish Dubs or English Dubs closer to the original Japanese? This and many more questions answered! se habla español!
Generational Mash! KPRD
Sunday: 3:00pm - 3:50pm • Panel Room 3
new gen K- pop dances to fast for you? Don’t know any old gen K-pop dances? Come join this generational mash KPRD where any and all generation k-pop songs will be included! Come and dance or just sit and watch!
Unleash Your Creativity
Sunday: 3:00pm - 3:50pm • Panel Room 4
Learn how to bust through writer’s block and finish your story. Do you suffer from writer’s block? Learn how to get unstuck by using music to paint vivid pictures in your brain. Whether you’re crafting novels, screenplays, video game scripts, or D&D campaigns, join this high-energy, interactive workshop designed for all kinds of storytellers. Unleash your imagination and experience the art of storytelling like never before!
Who the Heck are You?!
Sunday: 3:00pm - 3:50pm • Panel Room 5
Who the heck are you?! Choose a character from our list of over 300 characters from anime, video games, cartoons, and other popular media. Say an iconic line, do an iconic pose, or just describe them in a 20 questions fashion. The audience must guess who the heck you are! If there are not enough volunteers, members of the audience will be voluntold!
Greg Ayres, Shinichi Watanabe
Sunday: 4:00pm - 4:50pm • Autographs
Marvel Cinematic Universe Trivia
Sunday: 4:00pm - 4:50pm • Panel Room 2
Come test your knowledge on the Marvel Cinematic Universe with the Chicago Trivia Guys! Loads of fun and all can participate. Everyone wins a door prize and top team wins a special prize!
High-Energy Airwaves: Anime Meets Radio”
Sunday: 4:00pm - 4:50pm • Panel Room 3
Discover how the epic sounds and iconic themes of anime have shaped the world of radio and broadcasting in this lively panel with Victor Garcia, college DJ and mass communication student. From pulse-pounding sports arcs to dramatic battle themes, explore how anime music and storytelling techniques inspired real-life announcers, DJs, and media production, and see how those high-energy cues translate to live radio. Attendees will hear examples, learn behind-the-scenes tricks, and even participate in mini demonstrations that show how anime’s unforgettable music and hype moments can make any broadcast come alive.
DIY Leathercraft: Leather Cat Ears
Sunday: 4:00pm - 4:50pm • Panel Room 4
Unleash your inner kitty meow meow! In this panel, we’ll teach the basics of leatherworking, and guide you through making a pair of leather cat ears you can wear home. There will be a 25 USD materials fee, but any are welcome to watch.
Closing Ceremonies Recommended
Sunday: 5:00pm - 5:50pm • Main Events

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About Anime Midwest 2026

Anime Midwest 2026 is a family-friendly anime convention in Rosemont, Illinois. This three-day event focuses on video gaming, Japanese anime, Japanese manga, and bringing authentic Japanese culture and anime to life.

Anime Midwest is just outside of Chicago and easily accessible by the Blue Line! It's easy to get to our event from anywhere in the Midwest.

Anime Midwest 2026 is proudly brought to you by the incredible anime fans at AnimeCon.org, supporting the nerd community.

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A portion of the revenue from our events goes to support various charities, including those which support LGBTQ+ individuals, children, and survivors of sexual assault.
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