AniMinneapolis Starts NOW: Why You Still Have Time to Catch the Magic This Weekend

Let’s cut right to the chase, shall we? If you’re sitting on your couch right now wondering whether it’s too late to dive into a weekend of wild wigs, electrifying energy, and an ungodly number of plushies—spoiler alert: it’s absolutely not too late.

AniMinneapolis 2025 is happening this very weekend (May 9–11) at the Hyatt Regency in downtown Minneapolis, and whether you’re a full-on weeb, a curious convention first-timer, or someone who just wants to see what all the colorful, costumed chaos is about, this is your sign to get up and go.

Day Passes Are Still Available!

First things first—yes, you can still get in. Whether you’ve got one day to spare or want to dip your toes in before diving headfirst, day passes are your golden ticket. Buy them online or at the door. And unlike your average big city event, AniMinneapolis is insanely easy to get to. Located right in the heart of downtown at the Hyatt Regency, it’s accessible by lightrail, city bus, or your own trusty vehicle. Parking? Covered. There are discount options nearby, and if you're willing to hoof it a little through scenic Loring Park (wear comfortable shoes, this is still a con), you can snag a spot for under $10.

Now buckle in, because here’s what’s waiting for you inside.

Cosplay Galore: The Grand Cosplay Competition

Let’s not pretend the cosplay isn’t a major reason to show up. The Grand Cosplay Competition is exactly what it sounds like—a theatrical showdown of anime icons, elaborate armor, foam-built fantasy creatures, and handcrafted masterpieces. You don’t have to be a contestant to enjoy it. Just being in the audience is an experience: you’ll witness jaw-dropping creativity, cheer on your favorites, and probably leave with the sudden, burning desire to hot glue something to your body.

Dancing, Raving, and Living Your Best Con Life

Friday and Saturday nights bring out the big guns with two epic dance parties. We’re talking lights, beats, and more rhythm than your spine can handle. With names like Greg Ayres and YTCracker lighting up the DJ booth, it’s not just a dance—it’s a full-on EDM takeover. Expect genres from Trance to Hardstyle to Drum and Bass, and maybe even a stray anime remix or two. You can show up in cosplay, ravewear, or whatever makes you feel like the main character.

Feeling a little more eleganza extravaganza? The Fantasy Ball is the cosplay prom of your dreams. Think fancy outfits, romantic lighting, and even professional dance lessons. And if you're flying solo? The Friday Date Auction might be the chaotic icebreaker you never knew you needed.

Fuel Up for Free at the ConSweet

Yes, you read that right: free ramen. And rice. And soda. No con in their right mind feeds you for free, but AniMinneapolis does, and they call it the ConSweet. It’s a badge-holder-only lounge where you can load up on quick bites and drinks so you don’t collapse mid-panel or pass out in line for autographs. Pro tip: Go early. Free food draws a crowd.

Game On: Tabletop, Arcade, and Video Game Havens

Gamers, rejoice. AniMinneapolis doesn’t play when it comes to gaming spaces. The video game room is a pixel-packed paradise, loaded with retro classics, modern favorites, and full-on tournaments if you’re feeling competitive. Into tabletop strategy? There’s a whole zone for board games, D&D campaigns, and late-night card battles. Prefer your games old-school arcade-style? We’ve got flashing lights and button-mashing galore in the Arcade Room. If it plugs in, rolls dice, or eats quarters, it’s here.

Belt It Out: Karaoke That’s Anything But Shy

You haven’t lived until you’ve heard someone passionately scream-sing the Tokyo Ghoul theme at midnight while dressed as a Pokémon trainer. The karaoke rooms are a chaotic delight—a judgment-free zone where anyone can grab a mic and go full anime opening sequence. Whether you’ve got pipes or just enthusiasm, karaoke at AniMinneapolis is one of the most unexpectedly joyful events on the schedule.

Artist Alley and Exhibit Hall: Wallets Beware

Here’s the thing: you will spend money. The Exhibit Hall and Artist Alley are bursting at the seams with merch. From handmade pins and posters to elaborate wigs, swords, plushies, and imported manga, it’s basically nerd Christmas shopping—even if it’s just for yourself. The vendors cover everything from mass-produced collectibles to truly rare art and one-of-a-kind pieces by indie creators.

Have a blank wall? It won’t be blank for long. Empty shelf? Not anymore. Bring cash or credit and set a budget, because it’s easy to lose control when you spot that perfect Totoro plush or hand-carved keyblade.

The Maid Cafe: Wholesome, Hilarious, and Adorably Weird

You walk in. You’re greeted like royalty. Someone bows and calls you “Master.” You laugh, they laugh, you sip tea and eat a cupcake shaped like a bunny. Welcome to the Royale Maid Cafe, a convention experience straight from Akihabara with a Minnesotan twist. It’s sweet, it’s surreal, and it’s an unforgettable way to make your weekend feel just a little more like an anime come to life. Tickets are limited, but you can grab them at the con itself.

Meet the Stars of Kanpai!Con 2025!

Get ready to meet some of the most talented, iconic, and downright fun guests coming to Kanpai!Con 2025! Whether you're into voice acting, music, martial arts, or just love a good geeky conversation, we’ve got something for everyone. From anime legends to rising stars, these guests are bringing their A-game to Omaha. Let’s dive into who you’ll be able to hang out with at the convention:

Here are just a few of the incredible guests you can expect:

Greg Ayres

Greg Ayres has been a staple in the voice acting world for over 25 years, with over 376 credits to his name. You’ve heard him as characters like Yu Nishinoya in Haikyuu!!, Son Goku in Saiyuki, Po in Eminence in Shadow, and many more. He’s been a part of iconic series such as Dragon Ball Super, My Hero Academia, Free!, and Pop Team Epic. Greg's also known for his role as Little Brother to voice actor Christopher Ayres, leaving a legacy of love and laughter.

Jay Hickman

Jay Hickman is another seasoned voice actor with more than 100 anime credits. Some of his standout roles include Mechazawa in Cromartie High School, Chief Kurama in Elfen Lied, and Crusty in Log Horizon. He's also appeared in live-action films and video games like Dark Water and Unlimited Saga.

Robert L. Mungle

Known for his outrageously loud voice, Robert L. Mungle has voiced characters in over 100 anime titles, including Amanojaku in Ghost Stories, Mr. 8 in One Piece, and Matsushita in Angel Beats. He's also made appearances in films like Gantz and Halo Legends.

Gareth West

Gareth West brings his talents to the world of anime with roles like Ittetsu Takeda in Haikyuu!! and Seiya Takehaya in Tsurune. He’s also lending his voice to the upcoming Red Rising: A Power Rangers Fan Film. When he’s not voicing anime characters, Gareth enjoys geeking out with fans on just about anything nerdy.

Samurai Dan and Jillian

This husband-and-wife duo is well-versed in the art of the Samurai. With 35 years of combined experience, Daniel and Jillian Coglan are martial arts instructors specializing in 16th-century Samurai Arts. They perform and teach across the U.S. and have even created a 12-episode TV series, The Way of The Samurai.

Emily Cramer

Emily Cramer is a talented voice actor and Broadway singer with roles in Pokémon, Yu-Gi-Oh!, and Genshin Impact. Her Broadway credits include Les Misérables, Shrek the Musical, and School of Rock.

Kohei

A singer from Tokyo who moved to New York, Kohei is known for his R&B and soul performances. He's performed at the legendary Apollo Theater and opened for major acts like Wu-Tang Clan. His music career is marked by numerous accolades, including being a finalist in McDonald's Gospelfest.

Tyler Walker

Tyler Walker is a renowned scriptwriter, ADR director, and voice actor with nearly 1000 episodes under his belt. His directing credits include Fairy Tail, Baccano!, and Dies Irae. He’s also lent his voice to characters like Gang Orca in My Hero Academia and Baba in Hinamatsuri.

Heather Walker

Heather Walker has voiced a range of memorable characters like Kei in Kaguya-sama: Love is War and Aki in Maken-Ki. Known for her love of quirky and extreme characters, Heather is also a photographer and an animal lover in her downtime.

Whitney Rodgers

Voice actress and aspiring bodybuilder, Whitney Rodgers is known for her roles in Overlord, Prison School, Tokyo Ghoul, and more. Outside of voice acting, she works as a freelance photographer and is focused on becoming a champion in bodybuilding’s Bikini division.

John Swasey

John Swasey has voiced countless characters in his career, including Undertaker in Black Butler and Salvador in Borderlands II. He’s also an anime director, with credits for shows like AirGear and Welcome to the N.H.K.. His extensive work in anime has earned him a reputation as one of the industry's most versatile voices.

These are just some of the incredible guests who will be joining the fun at Kanpai!Con 2025. There are many more talented individuals to meet, so be sure to be there this weekend!

Panels by Fans, for Fans (And Not Just About Anime)

Let’s talk about one of the most dynamic and surprising parts of AniMinneapolis: the fan-run panels. Yes, you’ll absolutely find ones dedicated to anime deep-dives, voice acting insights, cosplay tutorials, and all your favorite fandom fixations. But if you think it stops there, you’re in for a delightful curveball. AniMinneapolis thrives on the unexpected, and nowhere is that clearer than in its panel lineup. These sessions are run by fans, which means the topics are as eclectic and passionate as the people behind them.

One minute you might be learning how to plan your own event—perhaps the first spark of your future as a con organizer—and the next, you could find yourself in a lighthearted but wildly helpful public transport tips when in Japan. These panels often veer off the beaten path in the best way possible. You might wander into a session exploring the role of AI and virtual reality in classrooms, or how digital marketing can help artists and creators build a following from scratch. Got dreams of launching your own business or going freelance? There could easily be a panel breaking that down, step by step, with real-world advice from someone who's been in the trenches.

But it’s not all business and tech talk. Fan panels at AniMinneapolis could just as easily dive into personal growth or lifestyle topics. Think minimalist interior design and decluttering tips for chaotic nerd spaces, or how to actually stick with learning a second language this time (no shade to your abandoned Duolingo streak). You might stumble into a balcony gardening panel tailored for apartment dwellers, or a surprisingly fun guide to going vegan without losing your mind—or your favorite comfort foods.

There’s even room for the delightfully bizarre or unexpectedly therapeutic. Someone might host a session on how to fix your credit score (it’s happened before), or invite you to meditate in full cosplay—because why not achieve inner peace while dressed as your favorite shōnen hero? That’s the beauty of these panels: they reflect the strange, passionate, practical, and deeply human interests of the fandom community.

Ultimately, fan-run panels at AniMinneapolis aren’t just about absorbing info—they’re about connection, curiosity, and creativity. Whether you're there to learn, laugh, commiserate, or just soak in the vibe, there’s always something unexpected waiting behind the next panel door.

Ticket Tips: Don’t Wait, Just Go

Still hesitating? Here’s your nudge: day passes are still up for grabs, and badges grant you access to every major event, plus the ConSweet and certain limited-space activities. If you plan to come for just one day, Saturday tends to be the most packed (and packed with programming), but Friday and Sunday have their own gems, especially for people who want a little breathing room.

Con Survival Tips: Pack Smart, Spend Smarter

Whether you’re a seasoned con-goer or flying solo for the first time, AniMinneapolis is an adventure—but a little prep goes a long way. First things first: if you’re attending alone, stay aware of your surroundings. Minneapolis is generally safe, but conventions get crowded, fast-paced, and occasionally overwhelming. Let someone—a friend, a roommate, your group chat—know your schedule and check in occasionally.

Financially speaking, walk into the Exhibit Hall with a set budget. Those booths are stacked with rare merch, gorgeous prints, and fandom swag you didn’t know you needed until it stared deep into your soul. Your future self (and your bank account) will be grateful if you plan ahead.

Your packing list should include more than just your cosplay and con badge. A portable charger is essential—between snapping photos, checking schedules, and navigating the con app, your phone’s battery will drain fast. Bring a refillable water bottle, deodorant (please), and some healthy snacks to keep you going. Con food lines can get long, and skipping meals isn’t a flex—it’s a fast track to burnout.

Take time to explore your hotel when you arrive. Some attendees never leave the venue, but it’s worth scoping out your room, the nearest bathroom, and most importantly, the low-traffic quiet corners where you can take a breather. Finally, consider your transit options. If you’re trying to stay eco-friendly or cut costs, Minneapolis has solid light rail and bus systems. Carpooling with fellow attendees is another great way to lower your carbon footprint and maybe make a few friends before the con even starts.

Don’t Miss the Magic!

You’ve got a bag of excuses and a world of reasons to go. AniMinneapolis is welcoming, chaotic, inclusive, exciting, weird, wholesome, wild, and unforgettable—everything a convention should be. Whether you show up in full cosplay or just jeans and curiosity, you belong here.

It’s not too late. The party’s already started. See you there!