Forget the crowded convention halls and endless rows of merchandise. Nakamacon has a different idea of what a One Piece convention should look like.
How about spending a few days at the beach with a bunch of people who love pirates, adventure, and the Straw Hat crew just as much as you do?
Nakamacon is heading to Panama City Beach, Florida, October 15–18, 2026, for a fan-run gathering built around the world of Eiichiro Oda’s One Piece. Instead of following the usual convention format, this event is about getting together, making friends, competing in ridiculous challenges, and enjoying a little pirate-inspired fun along the Gulf Coast.
And yes, there will be a BBQ.
The weekend’s planned activities include a Friday evening barbecue where attendees are divided into two teams for some friendly competition. There’s a cooking contest, an eating contest, and even a stein-holding contest. Apparently, being a pirate requires more than knowing how to swing a sword.
The competition continues with the Davy Back Games, inspired by the challenges from One Piece. Fans can also participate in sandcastle building, watch a One Piece movie, and take part in other group activities throughout the gathering.
It’s a pretty fitting way to celebrate a series that’s always been about friendship, adventure, and finding your own crew.
The gathering takes place at the Days Inn in Panama City Beach, right along the water. And unlike many conventions, Nakamacon is free and open to the public. Donations are welcomed to help support the event.
The weekend concludes with a farewell lunch on Sunday, giving everyone one last chance to hang out before heading home.
Nakamacon isn’t trying to be the biggest anime convention in Florida. It’s doing something considerably more personal by bringing One Piece fans together for a few days of games, food, laughter, and beachside adventures.
So if you’ve ever wanted to find your own Straw Hat crew, Panama City Beach might be a good place to start.
Just don’t let anybody talk you into a Davy Back Fight unless you’re prepared to lose a few crewmates.
Beam Me Up Scotty
Old punk rocker from Miami who still smells faintly like comic shops and poor financial decisions.
