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Animethon has been around for over 30 years, and it’s back for another year of everything anime-related. From music to panels to meet-and-greets, there’s going to be no shortage of excitement here.
For any anime lovers and manga weebs, you might be familiar with this annual convention. Animethon has been around for many years, having popular Vocaloid artists and voice actors as guests, as well as hosting panels and events for fans in the city.
According to Animethon, the convention (or, technically, event series) began in 1994 as a strategy to promote Anime in Alberta. After years at Grant MacEwan University, the convention moved venues to the Ramada Inn and Conference Centre in 2013 before, finally, moving to the Edmonton Convention Centre in 2016. Now, it acts as the largest anime convention in Canada.
Everything going on at Animethon
There’s a whole lot to uncover at this festival, so we’re going to highlight some of the best attractions available.
The Maid and Butler Cafe seems to be one of the most popular events at the convention year after year. This experience offers a one-and-a-half-hour session with food, drinks, performances, and most importantly: maids and butlers. You’ll be living out your own personal fantasies at these events.
More performances will take over the festival, but this time on the main stage. Keep an eye out for some of the dance showcases being featured throughout the weekend. Whether it’s Anisong, J-Idols, Vocaloid, or K-pop, the convention invites all aspiring performers and fans to join in the fun.
If you’re looking to be a part of the festivities yourself, there are more than a few cosplay competitions to enter. Whether you’re looking to enter for craftsmanship or for the cosplay itself, there are options. Keep your eye on the festival’s website, however, as information is subject to change.
Pricing for Animethon
Day passes begin at $50, giving you general admission to the festival, Exhibitors Hall, and the Animethon Music Fest. Ninety dollars will get you general admission for all three days, and the Ryu Pass is $190 but includes priority entry to panels, main events, and early access to add-on tickets.
No matter if you’re a casual cosplayer or an anime-stan, this weekend is definitely going to be a blast.
When: Friday, Aug. 7, to Sunday, Aug. 9, 2026
Time: 10 a.m. to midnight on Friday and Saturday; 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Sunday
Where: 9797 Jasper Ave., Edmonton, Alta.
Cost: $50+
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Alyssa Gallardo
Alyssa is a Staff Writer for Dished and Curiocity Edmonton. She’s a big fan of everything entertainment, and can always be seen running around the city going from concert to concert.
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