Anime Midwest 2024: Your Guide to a Weekend of Anime Awesomeness

Anime Midwest 2024 is gearing up to be one of the most thrilling events for anime enthusiasts, gamers, and Japanese culture aficionados alike. Set in the vibrant town of Rosemont, Illinois, this three-day extravaganza from July 5-7, 2024, promises a jam-packed schedule of activities, celebrity guest appearances, unique shopping opportunities, and more. Whether you're a seasoned convention-goer or a newcomer to the scene, Anime Midwest offers something for everyone. Here's everything you need to know to make the most out of your Anime Midwest experience.

Why Attend Anime Midwest?

Anime Midwest celebrates Japanese culture, anime, and video gaming. This family-friendly event, conveniently located just outside of Chicago and accessible via the Blue Line, is perfect for anyone in the Midwest looking to immerse themselves in all things anime. Organized by the dedicated team at AnimeCon.org, the event is tailored to support and nurture the nerd community, offering a welcoming environment for fans of all ages.

Getting Your Tickets: The Early Bird Advantage

To ensure you don't miss out on any of the action, it's crucial to secure your tickets early. Anime Midwest offers a range of ticket options, and purchasing them in advance online can provide several perks.

Early bird tickets are often available at a reduced rate compared to door prices. Some early ticket purchases come with additional benefits such as early access to certain events, exclusive merchandise, or priority seating at panels and concerts. Avoid the last-minute rush and guarantee your spot at this popular event.

Convention Highlights

Concerts

Anime Midwest is renowned for its epic concerts, featuring a mix of anime theme song covers and unique performances by both local and international artists. The concerts are a major highlight, thanks to the cutting-edge lighting and sound systems that create an immersive experience. Previous years have seen performances from celebrated musicians like Raj Ramayya and unique acts blending rock, noir, and other genres.

Rave Dances

Anime Midwest's rave dances are legendary. With a lineup of talented DJs, including Greg Ayres and YTCracker, attendees can dance the night away to a variety of EDM genres like jumpstyle, hardstyle, techno, trance, and even dubstep. The rave is a high-energy event that keeps the party going well into the night.

Arcade Gaming

For those who love arcade games, Anime Midwest's gaming room is a must-visit. Featuring games like Dance Dance Revolution, JuBeat, Reflec Beat, Pop n Music, and Taiko Drumming, the arcade room partners with Tokyo Attack, Kdogs Arcade, and Credits Remaining to bring the best arcade experience from around the world.

Maid Cafe

Experience a slice of Japan with Anime Midwest's Maid Cafe. Modeled after the maid cafes in Japan, this unique dining experience allows attendees to be treated like royalty by maids and butlers. Due to its popularity and limited seating, it's recommended to get your tickets for the Maid Cafe early.

Tabletop and Miniatures Games

Anime Midwest also caters to fans of tabletop and miniatures games. Whether you're into Settlers of Catan or intricate wargames, the tabletop gaming room is stocked with a variety of games to enjoy throughout the weekend.

Photoshoots

Cosplayers are a significant part of Anime Midwest's vibrant community. The convention offers numerous opportunities for photoshoots, allowing attendees to capture memories of their elaborate costumes and meet fellow cosplay enthusiasts.

Exhibit Hall

The Exhibit Hall is a treasure trove for anime merchandise, offering a diverse array of items that cater to every fan's needs and interests. As you enter, you'll be greeted by a bustling atmosphere filled with vibrant colors and enthusiastic vendors.

The variety of products available is astounding. You can find a wide range of apparel, from intricate cosplay costumes that allow you to transform into your favorite characters, to casual T-shirts and hoodies adorned with beloved anime designs. Accessories such as hats, bags, and jewelry are also abundant, letting you subtly showcase your fandom in everyday life. Collectibles are a major highlight, with booths offering action figures, plushies, keychains, and posters that make perfect additions to any fan's collection. For those interested in media, there are extensive selections of DVDs, Blu-rays, manga, light novels, and soundtracks, ensuring you can bring your favorite anime experiences home with you. Additionally, you'll encounter booths filled with Japanese snacks and drinks, such as pocky and ramune, giving you a taste of Japan's unique flavors.

Many vendors go beyond simply selling products and create engaging experiences. You might find booths offering photo opportunities with life-sized figures or detailed cosplay backdrops. Game demos are common, allowing you to try out the latest anime-themed video games before they hit the market. Some vendors also host workshops on various topics, such as crafting props for cosplay or learning to draw in a manga style, providing an educational aspect to your visit.

One of the biggest draws of the Exhibit Hall is the chance to purchase exclusive items. These can include limited edition figures, rare artwork, or convention-exclusive merchandise that isn't available anywhere else. These items are often highly sought after and can become treasured pieces in your collection.

The Artist Alley is a dedicated section of the Exhibit Hall where independent artists showcase their talents. Here, you can find unique, handmade items such as prints, buttons, charms, and even commissioned artwork. Engaging with the artists provides a more personal touch to your purchases, and it's a great way to support emerging talents in the anime community.

Many vendors offer special promotions that can make your shopping experience even more exciting. Look out for discounts on bulk purchases, bundle deals that give you more value for your money, and time-limited sales on particular items. These deals can help you stretch your budget further and get more out of your visit.

Tips for Making the Most of Your Visit

Navigating the Exhibit Hall can be an exhilarating yet overwhelming experience. With so much to see and buy, it's essential to be prepared. Here are some detailed tips to help you maximize your time, budget, and enjoyment.

1. Plan Ahead: Review the Exhibit Hall map and vendor list before you go. Identify which booths you absolutely want to visit and plan a route to avoid missing out on any must-have items. This preparation can save you time and help you prioritize your favorite vendors and artists.

2. Budget Wisely: Set a spending limit to avoid overspending. It's easy to get carried away with so many tempting items, so having a budget in mind can help you manage your finances. Consider dividing your budget into categories such as collectibles, apparel, and food to ensure you allocate your funds effectively.

3. Arrive Early: Popular items can sell out quickly, so it's a good idea to visit the Exhibit Hall as early as possible. This also helps you beat the crowds and have a more relaxed shopping experience. Early arrival also gives you first dibs on limited edition items and exclusive merchandise.

4. Bring Cash: While most vendors accept credit cards, having cash on hand can be useful, especially for smaller purchases or at booths that are cash-only. Cash transactions can also be quicker, helping you move through the hall more efficiently.

5. Pack Light: Bring a comfortable bag or backpack to carry your purchases, but try to keep it light. A heavy bag can become cumbersome as you navigate through the crowded hall. Many conventions offer coat checks or bag storage services, which can be helpful if you need to offload heavier items.

6. Wear Comfortable Clothing and Shoes: The Exhibit Hall requires a lot of walking and standing, so wear comfortable shoes to keep your feet happy. Dress in layers if the convention center tends to be chilly or stuffy, and consider wearing a cosplay that's easy to move around in if you plan on dressing up.

7. Protect Your Purchases: If you buy fragile or valuable items, bring protective packaging or bubble wrap to keep them safe. Some vendors may provide protective sleeves or boxes, but it's good to be prepared just in case.

8. Be Respectful and Patient: The Exhibit Hall can be crowded, and lines can be long. Practice patience and be respectful to vendors and fellow attendees. A positive attitude can make the experience more enjoyable for everyone.

Special Guests

One of the biggest draws of Anime Midwest is the impressive lineup of special guests. The convention features a range of voice actors, musicians, industry insiders, and entertainers. Here are a few notable guests for 2024:

• Raj Ramayya: Known for his collaborations with Yoko Kanno on "Cowboy Bebop: The Movie" and "Wolf’s Rain," Raj is set to perform and engage with fans.
• Cris George: A director and voice actor with over 300 roles, including characters from "My Hero Academia" and "One Piece."
• EmpathP: The mind behind VOCAMERICA and the voice of the Vocaloid “DAINA,” she brings her love of virtual singers to the event.
• Barry Yandell: Famous for his role as William T. Spears in "Black Butler," Barry’s extensive work includes titles like "Fairy Tail" and "Attack on Titan."
• Chris Patton: With roles in "Haikyuu!!" and "Fire Emblem," Chris is a versatile voice actor with a long career in anime and video games.
• Greg Ayres: Known for his energetic performances and roles in "Saiyuki" and "My Hero Academia," Greg will both DJ and engage in Q&A sessions.

Planning Your Weekend

To make the most out of your Anime Midwest experience, planning is key. Rosemont offers a variety of hotels, many of which are within walking distance of the convention center. Booking your hotel early can secure better rates and proximity to the event. Look for hotels that offer shuttle services to the convention center to ease your commute.

Anime Midwest is easily accessible via the Blue Line, making it convenient for attendees coming from Chicago and other parts of the Midwest. If you're driving, ample parking is available, though it’s wise to arrive early to secure a spot.

Anime Midwest’s schedule is packed with events, so it’s helpful to plan which panels, concerts, and activities you want to attend. Keep an eye on the official website and social media channels for the latest updates and schedule changes.

What to Bring

Attending a convention can be a fun and immersive experience, but being well-prepared can make it even more enjoyable. Here are some essential items to bring along to ensure you have everything you need for a successful visit:

• Convention Essentials: Make sure to bring your ticket confirmation and a valid ID, as you will need these to gain entry to the convention. Having some cash on hand is also a good idea, especially for smaller vendors or in case of any card payment issues. Additionally, keep a digital or printed copy of the convention schedule and map for easy reference.
• Comfortable Clothing: Dress comfortably for a day of walking and standing. If you’re cosplaying, ensure your costume is practical for long periods and allows for easy movement. Comfortable shoes are crucial, as you'll be on your feet for most of the day. Consider layering your clothing to adapt to varying temperatures inside the venue.
• Snacks and Water: Staying hydrated and energized is important. While there will be food vendors, bringing your own snacks can save time and money. Pack portable, non-perishable items like granola bars, nuts, or dried fruit. A refillable water bottle is essential, as many conventions have water stations where you can refill throughout the day.
• Camera: Capture memories of your favorite cosplays, panels, and moments throughout the convention. Whether you bring a dedicated camera or use your smartphone, make sure you have enough storage space and battery life. A portable charger can be a lifesaver to keep your devices powered up all day.
• A Comfortable Bag or Backpack: Choose a bag that is easy to carry and has enough space for your purchases and personal items. A backpack with multiple compartments can help keep your belongings organized. Make sure it's not too bulky, so you can move through crowded areas comfortably.
• Hand Sanitizer and Face Masks: In crowded environments, maintaining hygiene is essential. Bring hand sanitizer to use throughout the day, especially after handling merchandise or using public facilities. Face masks might still be required or recommended in certain areas, so having a few on hand can ensure you comply with any health guidelines.
• Notebook and Pen: If you plan on attending panels, workshops, or meet-and-greets, having a notebook and pen can be handy for taking notes, jotting down contact information, or getting autographs.
• Business Cards: If you're a creator, artist, or simply looking to network, having business cards can help you make connections with other attendees and vendors. It’s a quick and professional way to share your contact information.

See you!

Anime Midwest 2024 promises to be an unforgettable experience filled with anime, gaming, music, and community. By planning ahead and securing your tickets early, you can take full advantage of all the convention has to offer. Whether you’re there to meet your favorite voice actors, dance at the rave, shop for unique merchandise, or simply immerse yourself in Japanese culture, Anime Midwest is the place to be. Mark your calendars, pack your bags, and get ready for a weekend of anime awesomeness!