7 Fun Photos From The Minneapolis Anime Convention

Minneapolis's anime convention known as AniMinneapolis is coming back to the Hyatt Regency Minneapolis hotel and convention center in May.

1. Registration

Ryan Kopf

Registration is the first stop at the convention, and it's essential to get there early to avoid long lines. After registering, attendees receive a badge that grants them access to all of the convention's events and activities. It's important to keep this badge on you at all times, as it serves as proof of your registration.

Once you have your badge, the convention is yours to explore. Many attendees like to plan out their schedule ahead of time, using the convention's app or schedule booklet to keep track of the events they want to attend. Others prefer to go with the flow and explore the convention's offerings as they go.

Regardless of your approach, there's always something happening at AniMinneapolis. In addition to the concerts, panels, and vendor hall, the convention also features a variety of other activities. These may include cosplay contests, video game tournaments, and screenings of anime movies and TV shows.

2. Vendors

Ryan Kopf

There are lots of vendors and artists at Anime Minneapolis, offering a wide variety of merchandise and art for sale. Many of the vendors are small businesses or independent artists who create their own unique anime-inspired items.

One of the great things about the vendor hall at AniMinneapolis is the sheer variety of items available. You can find everything from anime-themed clothing and accessories to handmade plushies, keychains, and other small trinkets. Many vendors also offer one-of-a-kind items, such as original artwork or custom commissions.

Another highlight of the vendor hall is the chance to meet and interact with artists and creators. Many of the vendors are happy to talk about their work and share their creative process with attendees. This is a great opportunity to learn about the anime and manga industry, as well as get a behind-the-scenes look at what goes into creating anime-inspired art and merchandise.

In addition to the vendors, there are also a variety of artists and exhibitors showcasing their work at AniMinneapolis. These may include indie game developers, comic book artists, and animators, among others. Attendees can meet these creators, see their work up close, and even purchase some of their creations.

AniMinneapolis is organized by AnimeCon.org and they run 7 conventions a year.

3. Concerts

Ryan Kopf

AniMinneapolis has some great concerts, exciting panels, and a variety of vendors that are perfect for any anime fan. As a language model, I haven't been able to experience the convention in person, but I can tell you about some of the things that make AniMinneapolis a must-attend event for anime enthusiasts.

One of the highlights of AniMinneapolis is the lineup of concerts featuring talented musicians and performers. From J-pop and K-pop to anime-themed rock and metal, the concert lineup has something for everyone. Attendees can look forward to a night of high-energy music and dancing that will make them feel like they're in the middle of an anime scene.

Aside from the concerts, AniMinneapolis also offers a diverse range of panels and workshops. Fans can learn about cosplay tips and tricks, voice acting, and industry insights from guests and experts in the anime world. With a wide variety of topics and presenters, there's always something new to learn and discover.

4. Tabletop Games

Ryan Kopf

The convention also features tabletop games and video game rooms, where attendees can play their favorite games and meet other gamers. The tabletop gaming area usually has a variety of board games, card games, and role-playing games available to play, and attendees can either bring their own games or borrow from the convention's library.

The video game room is also a popular spot at AniMinneapolis, with a variety of consoles and games available for attendees to play. Whether you're into classic arcade games or the latest console releases, there's something for everyone in the video game room. And if you're feeling competitive, there may even be tournaments or other gaming events happening throughout the convention.

In addition to these gaming areas, AniMinneapolis also offers a variety of other activities for attendees to enjoy. These may include dance parties, karaoke, and even live-action role-playing events. There's never a dull moment at AniMinneapolis, and there's always something new and exciting to discover.

5. More Tabletop Games

Ryan Kopf

Many people will spend hours in the tabletop game room playing games like Dungeons & Dragons, Magic: The Gathering, and Settlers of Catan. These games are perfect for attendees who enjoy strategy, storytelling, and socializing. The tabletop gaming area at AniMinneapolis provides a great opportunity for attendees to meet new people, make friends, and bond over their shared love of gaming.

Dungeons & Dragons is a particularly popular game at AniMinneapolis, with many attendees bringing their own character sheets and dice to play with others. This classic role-playing game allows players to create their own unique characters and embark on epic adventures in a fantastical world.

Magic: The Gathering is another popular game at AniMinneapolis, with many vendors selling booster packs and individual cards. This collectible card game allows players to build their own decks and battle against others, using strategy and cunning to outmaneuver their opponents.

Settlers of Catan is a board game that has gained a lot of popularity in recent years. It's a strategic game of resource management and negotiation, in which players compete to build settlements and cities on a fictional island.

6. Fun Events To Watch

Ryan Kopf

The convention has fun events to watch like cosplay contests, where attendees showcase their amazing costumes and compete for prizes. The cosplay contests at AniMinneapolis are always a crowd-pleaser, with contestants putting a lot of time and effort into creating their costumes. It's a chance for attendees to see their favorite anime and manga characters come to life, and to appreciate the creativity and skill of the cosplayers.

Another popular event at AniMinneapolis is the anime screening room, where attendees can watch their favorite anime shows and movies. This is a great way to relax and unwind after a busy day of exploring the convention, and to catch up on the latest anime releases.

Live music performances are another highlight of AniMinneapolis, with talented musicians and performers taking the stage throughout the convention. Attendees can dance and sing along to anime-inspired music, or simply sit back and enjoy the show.

And let's not forget about the dance parties! AniMinneapolis features a variety of dance events, including formal balls and themed dance parties. It's a chance for attendees to dress up, socialize, and dance the night away with other anime fans.

7. Sushi Mountain

Ryan Kopf

Many people during the con visit the Sushi Train around the corner, which is a conveyer belt sushi restaurant that's become somewhat of a tradition for AniMinneapolis attendees. The Sushi Train offers a unique dining experience, with plates of sushi traveling along a conveyer belt and attendees able to pick and choose what they want to eat.

The restaurant is conveniently located just around the corner from the convention center, making it a popular spot for attendees to grab a quick and delicious bite to eat. The sushi is made fresh and comes in a variety of flavors and combinations, making it easy to find something that everyone will enjoy.

In addition to sushi, the Sushi Train also offers a variety of other Japanese dishes, such as ramen and udon noodles. And for those who aren't into sushi or Japanese cuisine, there are plenty of other dining options available in the area, from fast food to sit-down restaurants.

Have a blast in Minneapolis.

In conclusion, AniMinneapolis is an anime convention that has something for everyone. From the concerts and panels to the vendor hall and gaming areas, there's no shortage of things to see and do. Whether you're an anime fan, a gamer, or just looking for a fun and unique weekend experience, AniMinneapolis is definitely worth checking out.

And while you're in Minneapolis, be sure to explore all that the city has to offer. From world-class museums and theaters to beautiful parks and delicious restaurants, Minneapolis has something for everyone. So take some time to explore the city and have a blast at AniMinneapolis! Tickets are available now.