The start of a new year always fills me with excitement. I can’t stand staying inside and wasting time. I need to be out there—doing things, seeing new places, and experiencing fresh adventures. These moments make life worth living. Take this advice and store it away because by the time you hit 36, you’ll understand exactly what I mean.
Every year, I attend anime conventions, and it’s always a highlight. Of course! I’m an anime fan and a blogger writing for an anime website! You have to play to your strengths. I usually attend three conventions annually, but if I’m feeling adventurous, I might add more. My go-to conventions are Katsucon, Otakon, and Nekocon. Each offers a unique experience, but all take place on the East Coast, close to home.
Today, I want to focus on Katsucon. This mid-to-large-sized convention happens every spring just outside Washington, DC, at the National Harbor. Thousands of anime fans pack the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center for three days and nights of cosplay revelry, gaming hall excitement, shopping sprees, and non-stop anime culture. The experience is unforgettable.
Katsucon doesn’t focus on voice actor autographs, panels (which, honestly, I don’t care about anyway), or food. Instead, it stands out for its cosplay scene. It’s one of the best cosplay conventions in the U.S. and definitely the standout event on the East Coast.
This year, I’m skipping cosplay. Why? First, I don’t have anything planned. Second, I’m on a diet and losing weight. Third, I just don’t feel like it! And that’s okay. Sometimes, you enjoy the event in other ways. Last year, I had a blast just people-watching.
Katsucon also arrives at a time when I’m working to revive this blog and grow my audience. I don’t have much to say about the convention yet, but I promise to take plenty of pictures and share them in a future post. I also plan to write some practical convention guides. Any experienced convention-goer knows great tips and tricks make these events even better. It’s not just about throwing on Pikachu ears and blending in.
That said, I’ll be rocking a heavy metal battle vest with furry ears and a furry belt tail. Rocker furry? Maybe! I expect that will get some passing glances if not a some interest.
I expect to be tired and poor by next Monday but you’ll be hearing from me regardless. Unfortunately (or fortunately depending on how you see it) I will be missing my biggest event of the year – Otakon. I also wanted to possibly go to Anime NYC for the first time as well and that’s a no go. My younger brother had the audacity to schedule his wedding during that time and I am the best man…so no summer convention for me. I will however be at Nekocon in Hampton, VA in November so that will be fun! Looking forward to both!
What is your favorite convention? Have you been to a convention before?
