Thousands of fans are about to descend on the Palm Beach County Convention Center for three days of non-stop geek culture fun — and you won’t want to miss it.
If you’re looking for the most exciting event happening in South Florida this weekend, look no further than OtakuFest 2026. OtakuFest, South Florida’s largest celebration of anime, gaming, and cosplay, is officially returning for its 7th year from June 19–21, 2026. Whether you’re a hardcore anime devotee, a dedicated gamer, an aspiring cosplayer, or simply someone looking for an unforgettable weekend packed with entertainment, this is the place to be.
A Brand-New Venue — Bigger and Better Than Ever
One of the biggest reasons this year’s OtakuFest is generating so much buzz is its exciting new home.This year, the festival moves to a premier new destination, the Palm Beach County Convention Center. While OtakuFest is shifting out of Miami for the 2026 season due to the regional logistical demands of the FIFA World Cup, the move offers fans a significant upgrade.
And what an upgrade it is. The new venue provides over 50,000 square feet of modern exhibition space, improved parking, and a prime location just steps from the dining and nightlife of CityPlace. That means attendees can enjoy the convention all day and seamlessly transition to restaurants, bars, and shops right outside the venue’s doors when they need a break. The convention center is also located within walking distance of the Brightline West Palm Beach station, making it easier than ever for fans to travel from Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and Orlando.
Star-Studded Guest Lineup
Part of what makes any convention truly special is the chance to meet the stars who bring your favorite characters to life — and OtakuFest 2026 has assembled an impressive roster. Fans will have the chance to meet Walter E. Jones, known for his role as the Black Ranger in Mighty Morphin Power Rangers; Reed Shannon, lead in Netflix’s Emmy-winning series Arcane; Jeff Ward from Agents of S.H.I.E.L.D. and Netflix’s One Piece; Sarah-Nicole Robles, lead in Disney’s The Owl House; Nicolas Roye, known for his role as Toji Fushiguro on Jujutsu Kaisen; and Eliah Mountjoy, voice of characters in Call of Duty, Marvel Rivals, and Cyberpunk franchises.Daniel Marin, featured in Marvel Rivals and Call of Duty: Modern Warfare, rounds out the guest list.
Attendees can meet world-class voice actors and creators for autographs, selfies, and exclusive Q&A panels. Imagine sitting in an intimate panel and getting to ask Nicolas Roye about voicing Toji Fushiguro or hearing Reed Shannon talk about the creative process behind *Arcane*. These are the kinds of once-in-a-lifetime experiences that make conventions so magical.
Over 200 Hours of Programming — Something for Everyone
The sheer volume of activities on offer at OtakuFest 2026 is staggering. Your pass grants access to over 200+ hours of events, including the vendor hall, artist alley, parties, performances, and panels. 11Most of the events at OtakuFest are included with your general admission ticket.
Attendees will have access to over 100 hours of awesome programming, such as guest Q&A’s, panels on various anime topics, anime viewing rooms to watch favorites on the big screen with other fans, live performances from talented performers and artists, exciting game shows to test anime knowledge, karaoke, and gaming tournaments with prizes.
Cosplay Heaven
For the cosplay community, OtakuFest is nothing short of paradise. OtakuFest will have several cosplay and costuming events throughout the weekend, with non-stop panels, workshops, contests, and photoshoots.
The cosplay programming is incredibly diverse.Events include the OtakuFest 2026 Costume Contest, Masquerade Costume/Performance Contest, Runway Costume Contest, Late Night Costume Contest, Cosplay Photo Booth, Cosplay Meet-Ups, Cosplay Hospital, and Costuming Workshops.The Costume Contest is one of the most competitive costuming events in South Florida, so expect to see jaw-dropping craftsmanship and creativity on full display. 9There are even cash prize contests, dedicated photo-shoot zones, and crafting workshops.
10 OtakuFest will have dozens of informative costuming workshops for the novice and intermediate cosplayer, hosted by experts and enthusiasts in various fields. So whether you’re a seasoned prop-maker or you’ve never picked up a sewing needle, there’s something for you to learn and enjoy.
Gaming Galore
Gamers, rejoice — OtakuFest has you covered too. Dedicated ballrooms will host elite video game tournaments, tabletop RPGs, and fan-favorite events. Attendees can dive into non-stop tournaments, free-play zones, and massive tabletop gaming rooms. Whether your thing is competitive esports or a casual tabletop session with new friends, the gaming hubs at OtakuFest promise hours of fun.
Shopping Paradise: Vendor Hall and Artist Alley
No anime convention experience is complete without browsing the vendor hall, and OtakuFest 2026 is going all out. The 2026 event will feature an expanded Vendor Hall and Artist Alley — a massive floor dedicated to hundreds of independent creators, artists, and vendors. 9Attendees can discover rare collectibles, official merch, and one-of-a-kind handmade art in the massive Exhibitor Hall and Artist Alley. If you’ve been hunting for that one hard-to-find figure or a unique piece of fan art, this is where you’ll find it.
The Fun Doesn’t Stop at Night
One of OtakuFest’s most unique draws is its after-dark programming. 9Attendees can experience the con after dark, with high-energy EDM sets, themed cosplay raves, late-night panels, and 18+ events. The convention runs late — 9Friday opens at 1pm and goes until midnight, Saturday runs from 10am to midnight, and Sunday wraps up from 10am to 8pm. That means the party keeps going long after the sun goes down.
Special attractions like 8Sweet Abyss: Starlit Stage and Mirai Maid Cafe offer unique themed experiences you simply won’t find anywhere else.
A Convention Built for Everyone
What truly sets OtakuFest apart is its inclusive, community-driven spirit. 12You can dress up as your favorite character or come as you are — OtakuFest aims to be a very inclusive convention. Whether you’re a seasoned cosplayer or a first-time attendee, OtakuFest 2026 promises the same inclusive, high-energy experience that has defined the festival for nearly a decade. Kids 5 and under attend free with a paid adult, making it a great option for families too.
OtakuFest expects to bring in 16,000 people over the three-day weekend for its 7th year. That’s 16,000 people who share your passions, your fandoms, and your excitement. The energy at a gathering like this is absolutely electric.
Get Your Tickets Now
This weekend, West Palm Beach transforms into the epicenter of anime, gaming, and cosplay culture. OtakuFest 2026 isn’t just a convention — it’s a celebration of the communities, creators, and characters that inspire millions. Don’t miss it.
OtakuFest 2026 runs June 19–21, 2026 at the Palm Beach County Convention Center, 650 Okeechobee Blvd, West Palm Beach, FL 33401. For tickets and more information, visit www.otakufest.com.
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NocedoPhoto Media Group is an innovative and creative consortium that unites photographers, writers, cosplayers, event promoters, vendors, costume and prop makers, and other creatives under one roof to use their collective skills to maximize their distribution and presence on digital media platforms. Their goal is to create a well-rounded and successful network for all involved.
