Three surprisingly fun, yet small anime conventions in the Midwest
It was the tale of two cities, except in this case three. Omaha, Davenport, and Peoria. Cities you don’t often hear about in the news. Cities that just aren’t quite big enough to make constant waves. Cities with…. amazing anime conventions?
That’s right, these three cities have something in common — they all have great anime events. It’s a testament to how popular and mainstream anime has become.
Omaha
Kanpai!Con is one of two anime conventions in Omaha. It features some cool concerts every year. “Kanpai!” is a Japanese expression that is used as a toast, meaning “Cheers!” or “Drink up!” It is commonly used in social and celebratory situations, such as at a bar or restaurant, to express good wishes and to encourage others to drink together. The word “kanpai” comes from the Japanese word “kanpai,” which means “empty the cup.” The phrase is typically said before drinking, as a way of wishing good health and happiness to those present.
In Japan, the word “kanpai” is a common and well-known expression, and it is often used in a variety of social situations to bring people together and celebrate. I visit Japan every year to see anime sights and connect with potential convention guests, in fact, so Kanpai! is a phrase I know well.
Every time I go to Omaha to Kanpai!, I see dear friends that I don’t get to see very often. Many people wait such reunions all year long with their convention friends. This just goes to show how important the community is.
Davenport
Anime-zing! is a convention in Davenport, Iowa. It’s nowhere near the size of an event like Anime Midwest, but it’s fun nonetheless. Anime-zing! is a great way for nerdy people to have a ton of fun with a ton of other people who enjoy anime.
Some people have complained about the Quad Cities being boring, but events like Anime-zing! prove that it isn’t. The area has 3 great convention centers for holding events, and so annual conventions like zing can make the area feel really special to people who live nearby. Some people simply can’t travel all the way to Chicago for a larger convention, and so having a local convention is important.
I have made several lifelong friends at Anime-zing!, which has been great for connecting with the local community and growing myself.
Peoria
Anime-ZAP! is a three day event in East Peoria, Illinois that has been recurring annually since 2010. It is among the longest running anime conventions in the country. Anime-ZAP! is a three day convention that celebrates anime, video games, comic books, and popular culture. You can attend the event in costume and make new friends who like anime. Over a thousand people who like anime and pop culture will join us for a fun time filled with cosplays, vendors selling anime merchandise, and amazingly talented artists. Very few people would expect such a big event in a town as small as Peoria.
Anime conventions are events that bring together fans of anime, manga, and Japanese pop culture to celebrate their interests and engage with like-minded individuals. Here are some reasons why anime conventions in small towns like these can be fun.
First is the community. Anime conventions offer a welcoming and inclusive environment where fans can connect with others who share their passion for anime and related media. This sense of community can be incredibly rewarding, providing a space for fans to express themselves, make new friends, and feel a sense of belonging.
Second is the cosplay. Many anime conventions feature cosplay, where attendees dress up as their favorite characters from anime, manga, and other forms of pop culture. This provides an opportunity for fans to showcase their creativity, as well as admire and interact with other people’s costumes.
Cosplay is probably my favorite parts of conventions. Some people spend hundreds of dollars and hundreds of hours on their costumes — the dedication is incredible! Cosplay allows you to be creative and help bring your favorite character to life. I mean, who wouldn’t want to dress like Captain Jack Sparrow and drink rum? It just sounds like a good ‘ol Caribbean time. Doesn’t that sound relaxing?
Next is the Panels and Workshops. Anime conventions often feature a variety of panels and workshops that cover a range of topics, from voice acting to costume making. These events provide an opportunity for fans to learn from industry professionals and engage in meaningful discussions about their favorite anime and manga.
Merchandise is also important. Anime conventions are a great place to buy merchandise related to anime and manga, such as figurines, clothing, and other collectibles. These events provide fans with an opportunity to purchase exclusive and hard-to-find items, as well as to support their favorite franchises.
Last, but certainly not least, the entertainment is one of the most important reasons to go to an anime con. Many anime conventions feature tons of fun and amazing live events, such as concerts, game shows, and screenings of popular anime. These events provide attendees with an opportunity to experience the world of anime and manga in a fun and interactive way.
Overall, anime conventions offer a unique and exciting opportunity for fans to come together and celebrate their love for anime and related media. Whether you’re a casual fan and first time attendee or a die-hard otaku, there’s something for everyone at an anime convention.
I think conventions in smaller cities, especially like these, are often better than massive conventions thanks to the smaller and more close-knit community. Its easier to make friends at a smaller convention than at a massive event.