Artists & Dealers: Unlocking the Magic of Anime Midwest’s Marketplace

Alright, shopper-san, grab your canvas tote and brace your wallet—because we’re diving deep into the beating heart of Anime Midwest’s marketplace: the Artists & Dealers Rooms. Whether you’re on the hunt for that rare collectible, scouting out new creators to fangirl over, or eyeing your first-ever art commission, this guide has your back. And with Anime Midwest 2025 taking place July 4–6 at the Hyatt Regency O’Hare, you’ll have three full days to live your best anime shopping life.

The Marketplace, Explained: Artist Alley vs. Dealer’s Room

First, let’s clear up a little con-goer confusion: the Artist Alley and the Dealer’s Room are not the same thing. Both are under the umbrella of the convention’s “Exhibit Hall,” but they offer completely different vibes and experiences.

Artist Alley: Where Fandom Meets the Handmade

This is where the magic happens. The Artist Alley is row after row of creators selling their own artwork, fan merch, zines, prints, enamel pins, stickers, keychains, plushies, jewelry—you name it, someone probably made it with love, cursed glue, and way too little sleep.

Expect to find:

• Custom commissions

• One-of-a-kind sketchbooks

• Hand-stitched plushes

• Original characters living their best life in sticker form

• Mash-up art you didn’t know you needed (like Sailor Moon meets Silent Hill)

Here’s the kicker: these artists are fans, just like you. They’re not giant companies pushing mass-produced merch—they’re people who pour their soul into their craft. So if you see something that catches your eye? Snag it. It might not be there if you “come back later.”

Want a custom piece? Most artists take commissions at their tables, or even accept pre-orders before the convention. Be polite, ask their rates, and expect to pay up front (because time is money and drawing takes both).

Dealer’s Room: Your Wallet’s Final Boss Battle

Now, let’s move to the other side: the Dealer’s Room, where you’ll find vendors selling officially licensed merch, imported goods, cosplay gear, DVDs, manga, and rare collectibles that’ll make your shelves and your bank account weep in tandem.

Here’s where to go for:

• Anime figurines and statues (yes, that version of Rem)

• Wall scrolls, art books, and posters

• Cosplay wigs, weapons, and full outfits

• Imported snacks, drinks, and way too many flavors of Pocky

• DVDs and Blu-rays, both obscure and mainstream

If you’ve ever dreamed of buying a full Alucard cosplay or dropping $300 on a perfect Kotobukiya figure, this is the place. Don’t forget to check out the Sugoi Tattoos Booth, too—yep, you can literally get inked with an anime tattoo on-site by licensed artists. Just make sure your design is solid before you commit (because “impulse-buy tattoo” is a con badge you can’t take off).

Pro Tips for Navigating the Marketplace Without Losing Your Sanity (or Wallet)

Let’s be real: it’s easy to get overwhelmed. Here’s how to keep your cool:

Budget Like a Pro:
Decide what you’re willing to spend before you walk in. Break your budget into categories: impulse buys, big-ticket items, and “if I see it, I have to have it” funds. ATMs will be there, but don’t rely on them—they run out of cash fast and charge fees like they’re in cahoots with your wallet.

Bring Cash and Cards:
Some vendors accept only cash. Others might accept Venmo, PayPal, or Square. But Wi-Fi inside big cons? Questionable at best. Cash = king.

Scan, Then Buy:
Do a lap around both rooms before making any major purchases. You’ll spot better prices or versions of the same item. It’s the classic con-goer rule: look first, then commit.

Talk to the Artists:
They want to talk to you! Ask about their work, say what you like, and be respectful. Don’t hover silently or take photos without permission (seriously—just ask).

Commissioning? Get the Details:
If you're commissioning a piece, ask about:

• Turnaround time

• Style (sketch, inked, full color?)

• Reference requirements

• Payment and pickup logistics

Most artists offer pickup by Sunday afternoon or digital delivery after the con.

Beyond the Booths: Anime Midwest’s Must-See Events

Sure, the Exhibit Hall is a major draw at Anime Midwest 2025—you could easily spend hours ogling rare figures, trying on cosplay accessories, and debating whether you really need that giant plushie (spoiler: you do). But don’t let your weekend get swallowed by shopping alone. From July 4–6 at the Hyatt Regency O’Hare, there’s a whole world of nonstop programming happening just outside the vendor aisles. Here's what else you should make time for:

Tabletop & Video Gaming: Roll Dice, Push Buttons, Win Glory

If you need a break from the convention hustle or want to dive into some competitive fun, Anime Midwest does not disappoint with its gaming offerings. The Tabletop Gaming Room is a paradise for board game fans. You’ll find everything from strategy classics like Settlers of Catan to party games, deck-builders, and indie RPG one-shots. Don’t know how to play something? No problem—many tables are beginner-friendly and staff or volunteers are usually around to help you learn the rules.

There’s also a Miniatures Room, perfect if you’re into painting mini-figs or trying out tabletop wargames. It’s a quieter zone where you can get hands-on with hobby materials or admire other attendees’ intricately painted armies.

Meanwhile, over in the Video Game Lounge, it's all about high scores and friendly button-mashing. Consoles are set up for casual free play—everything from Super Smash Bros. and Mario Kart to lesser-known titles and rhythm games. Want to take it up a notch? Sign up for one of the gaming tournaments and prove your skills. Even if you’re not competing, it’s a fun crowd to watch.

Sugoi Tattoos Booth: Ink Your Fandom

If you’ve ever joked about getting your favorite anime quote permanently etched onto your skin—well, now’s your chance to make it real. Sugoi Tattoos is back at Anime Midwest with a team of licensed professionals offering both pre-designed anime-inspired flash tattoos and fully custom commissions. They follow top-notch hygiene standards and are con veterans, so you’ll be in good hands.

Whether you go for a minimalist design like a Hidden Leaf symbol or a full-color sleeve with your OTP, you’ll leave with something way cooler than another keychain (and that’s saying something).

Karaoke Krypt: Sing Like No One’s Judging (Because They’re Really Not)

Welcome to the Karaoke Krypt, where your singing voice doesn’t have to be perfect—just enthusiastic. This is the place to belt out your favorite anime intros, rock out to classic hits, or dramatically croon a Disney ballad in front of a room full of total strangers who will 100% cheer you on.

The song selection is huge—expect everything from J-Pop, K-pop, and anime openings to Broadway tunes, classic rock, and maybe even that one song from Shrek someone always sings (and crushes). Whether you’re a karaoke regular or just looking to shake off con nerves with friends, this is one of those surprisingly unforgettable parts of the weekend.

Stage Shows & Special Guests: Panels, Performances, and Freebies

Anime Midwest knows how to throw a show. The Main Stage is where the convention really comes alive—with concerts, game shows, burlesque, and Q&As with special guests. Expect to see voice actors from popular anime series, musicians, industry insiders, and maybe even an impromptu dance party.

Past guests like Greg Ayres and Gareth West have not only brought great energy and stories to the stage but also participated in free autograph sessions (yes, free—just be respectful and don’t bring a suitcase full of bootlegs or 20 Funkos to get signed).

Stage Highlights Include:

• Grand Cosplay Competition: This is the big one. Stunning costumes, choreographed skits, incredible craftsmanship—it’s a must-see even if you’re not a cosplayer.

• Forbidden Fandom Dames Burlesque (18+): Nerdy, cheeky, and classy. This is a themed burlesque show that brings your favorite characters to life with flair and a little sass.

• Mainstage Concerts: Expect EDM sets, anime-themed cover bands, and high-energy performances with top-tier lighting and sound production. Don’t forget to hydrate—you’ll be dancing.

Fantasy Ball: Formal, Fabulous, and Free

If you’ve ever wanted to waltz with your cosplay crush or show off your best ballroom spin in a velvet cape, the Fantasy Ball is your moment. It’s free to attend with your con badge and comes with optional dance lessons beforehand to help you feel confident on the floor—even if you’ve never danced a day in your life.

Dress code? Anything goes. Wear your con best, dress up in formalwear, or combine both with a cosplay ballgown or tux. There’s also a date auction beforehand if you're feeling bold (or indecisive). It’s surprisingly wholesome and a nice break from the high-energy chaos elsewhere.

Maid Cafe: Cute, Quirky, and Surprisingly Chill

Step into the Royale Maid Cafe, where you’re the guest of honor. Maids and butlers in character will greet you, serve you snacks, play games, and put on light performances—all in a themed café setting that’s more fun and less awkward than you might think (especially if it’s your first time).

It’s a sit-down experience that gives you a moment to relax, recharge, and just soak in the vibes. Keep in mind: tickets are limited and usually sell out early, so make a beeline to the info desk once you're at the con if you want a spot.

Arcade Room & Pachinko Area: Lights, Sounds, and Button-Smashing Glory

The Arcade Room is a shrine to the best in imported gaming. Thanks to past collaborations with Tokyo Attack and others, the lineup usually includes Dance Dance Revolution, JuBeat, Pop’n Music, Reflec Beat, and more. These aren’t the janky mall arcades of your childhood—these are the real-deal Japanese cabinets, loud, bright, and ready to devour your free time.

Right next door? The Pachinko Area, where you can try your hand at retro Japanese pachinko machines. It’s part pinball, part slot machine, part fever dream—and wildly addictive. Think of it as a weirdly satisfying detour between panels.

Dive Into the Panels: Where Fans Take the Mic (And Run With It)

Anime Midwest isn’t just about shopping till your backpack bursts or screaming lyrics at the karaoke room. It’s also the kind of con where you can accidentally wander into a room and leave 45 minutes later with a notebook full of tips on how to launch a small business or fix your credit score. No, seriously.

One of the most underrated gems of this con is the fan-run panel scene. These aren’t run by industry bigwigs or PR teams—they’re hosted by everyday congoers with a passion, a PowerPoint, and usually a hilarious anecdote or two. And while you’ll definitely find your fair share of anime debates, cosplay how-tos, and “Which Villain Would Win in a Fight?” type discussions, the range goes way beyond what you'd expect.

Because these are fan-led, you could stumble into panels about almost anything. There might be a talk on how to plan your own event or fandom meetup, packed with insider tricks for handling venues, volunteers, and that one guy who always forgets the AV cables. Or maybe you’ll find someone walking you through common tourist scams in Japan, complete with survival tips and budget-friendly alternatives that won’t leave you broke and jetlagged in a convenience store aisle.

Tech-savvy hosts might explore the rise of AI and virtual reality in classrooms, and how anime-inspired tech is shaping real-world education. Business-minded fans could be dishing out advice on launching your own startup, or pulling back the curtain on digital marketing tactics (because yes, that Sailor Moon sticker shop you saw in Artist Alley probably has a killer social media strategy).

And then there are the lifestyle panels—where things get really unexpected. You might sit in on a surprisingly soothing session about meditation techniques for stressed-out geeks, or learn the basics of small space gardening from someone who managed to grow tomatoes between binge sessions of My Hero Academia. Others could walk you through designing minimalist living spaces that still scream “anime fan” without looking like a dorm room exploded, or how to go vegan without giving up your favorite comfort foods (yes, even ramen).

Some panels lean more skill-based, like how to pick up a second language (Japanese is the obvious choice, but don’t be surprised if someone’s passionately advocating for French just because they want to read untranslated manga). And of course, you might catch some real talk about credit scores—because that $300 anime figure isn’t gonna buy itself, and someone needs to explain what APR is.

The best part? These panels are super low-pressure. Pop in, sit down, and if it’s not your vibe, there’s no shame in quietly slipping out. But odds are, you’ll end up staying. These talks have a way of surprising you, whether it’s the topic itself or the weirdly wholesome conversations that happen afterward.

So if you’ve got an hour between the Dealer’s Room and your next concert, don’t sleep on the panels. They might just be where you find your next niche interest, your next con friend, or at the very least, a bunch of cool info you didn’t know you needed.

Ticket Info: Get Yours Early or Cry Later

Let’s talk access. Tickets to Anime Midwest 2025 are on sale now, and prices go up the closer you get to the event. Here’s the quick-and-dirty:

• $70.00 (June 20–July 6)

• $150.00 Platinum Pass (includes perks)

• Day passes available too: $40 (Friday), $50 (Saturday), $40 (Sunday)

Early birds = best deals. And yes, all attendees get access to the ConSweet, which means free ramen and soda. Budget tip? Use that to your advantage.

Final Tips for a Kickass Con Weekend

Pack smart: You’ll need comfy shoes, a water bottle, your own con bag (maybe two if you’re a shopaholic), snacks, and a portable phone charger.

Stay hydrated & fueled: Hit the ConSweet for quick drinks, but bring backup healthy snacks. Don’t go twelve hours on vibes and Pocky.

Bring a poster tube and hard folders: You’ll thank yourself later when your $80 print doesn’t get crushed in your backpack.

Set a spending limit and stick to it: We know, it’s hard. But if you blow all your cash on Day 1, you might cry when you see something even better on Day 2.

Take photos—but always ask first: Artists and cosplayers deserve the same courtesy you’d want if you were in their shoes.

Make a con buddy (or three): Whether you're exploring the Artists Alley or awkwardly singing “A Cruel Angel’s Thesis,” everything’s more fun with someone to laugh with.

Come for the Merch, Stay for the Madness

Anime Midwest’s marketplace is more than just rows of booths—it’s a whirlwind of color, creativity, and connection. The Artists & Dealers Rooms are bursting with stories and stuff you won’t find at your local mall or online shop. And once you’ve filled your bag (and heart) with fan-made magic, there’s a whole con out there waiting.

Whether you’re a seasoned shopper or a con newbie, Anime Midwest 2025 promises three jam-packed days of discovery, fandom, and absolute joy. So buy your ticket early, budget smart, and get ready to make some memories—and maybe a few impulse buys you’ll never regret.