Anime Central will Return!

Join us May 20th - May 22nd, 2022 at the Hyatt Regency O'Hare & the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center.

 
 

Panel Submissions Are Now Open!

We're looking for panel hosts! From new show reviews to exciting games, traveling to Japan and exploring the Japanese culture, we're accepting submissions now!

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Now Accepting Cosplay Gathering Requests!

Looking to catch someone cosplaying from your favorite series or care to join in with fellow fans of your chosen cosplay, here’s the spot for you. Our Cosplay Gatherings are our officially scheduled group photo-shoots.

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COVID-19 Updates

Our updates on event policies regarding COVID protocols. More specific details will be announced closer to the convention.

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Anime Central Will Return!

Anime Central (ACen) is the largest anime, manga and Japanese popular culture convention in Chicago and the Midwest. Our event is located less than 30 minutes from downtown Chicago, in Rosemont, IL.

As part of its mission, ACen brings fans together with guests from the Japanese and US sectors of the anime and manga industry, as well as gaming, cinema, and Asian culture personalities. The event includes a huge exhibit hall, a massive video game room, concerts, dances, educational panels and workshops, premiere screenings, autograph sessions, 24-hour video rooms, tabletop gaming and much, much more!

May 20th-22nd, 2022
Donald E. Stephens Convention Center & Hyatt Regency O’Hare
Rosemont, IL, 60018
33,000+
Unique Attendees

Attendee Registration is Open!

Pre-register before April 1 for a discount on memberships.

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What does Anime Central have to offer?

Guests

Our event will bring in creators and the talent that brings your favorite anime to life.

Exhibitors

The expansive Exhibit Hall is the perfect place to track down merchandise influenced by Japanese culture.

Artists

In one of the largest Artist Alleys in the country, Artists offer prints, original artwork, handmade crafts and more.

Programming

Throughout the convention, members of the industry and fans will host panels.

Gaming

Our free-to-play gaming hall includes, tournaments, arcade, PC and console gaming.

What's New?

January 17, 2022 in General

Anime Central 2022 Vaccine and Mask Policy

Anime Central 2022 will have a COVID-19 vaccination and mask requirement for all in attendance, including but not limited to artists, exhibitors, team members, guests, attendees and contracted parties in…
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January 13, 2022 in General

Professional Registration is Now Open!

We are now accepting industry and professional registrations for our 2022 event! Through professional registration, we are pleased to offer discounts on memberships for those who fall under one or…
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January 10, 2022 in Programming

Our Cosplay Masquerade is Now Accepting Submissions

The Cosplay Masquerade is one of our premier events, featuring performances and showcases by our attending cosplayers. Participants have a chance to win our craftsmanship or performance awards. Space is…
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December 13, 2021 in General, Performer, Programming

Panel, Cosplay Gathering and Live Performance Submissions are Now Open!

Submission forms for hosting a panel, hosting a cosplay gathering and submitting your group for a live performance, are now open! Cosplay Gatherings If you are looking to meet and…
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September 2, 2021 in Hotels

2022 Room Blocks are Open

Our hotel room blocks for Anime Central 2022 are now open!  Hotel rooms released in our initial block tend to book very quickly.   Here are the hotel booking links.…
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August 27, 2021 in General

Be Wary of Suspicious URLs and Emails

As we approach the opening of our hotel blocks, it's important to stay vigilant to prevent falling victim to phishing and other potential scams. We have confirmed that individuals are…
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