Convention schedule

Anime Boston 2026

497 events America/New_York

View on Guidebook Print schedule Grid view

Friday, April 03, 2026

201 events

Kodocha (PG-13)

8:00am - 10:00am Hynes - 210

Sixth grader Sana Kurata has a perfect life. Her mother is a (fairly) successful author, she has a young man employed to keep her happy and safe, and best of all, she is the star of the children's television show Kodomo no Omocha. There's just one thing bothering her, and that's Akito Hayama. Akito is a classmate of Sana's, and ever since he's started acting out in class, the rest of the boys have followed his example. Every day, the girls and the teacher wage a battle to keep the class under control and to get some actual learning done. That rotten Akito… Sana won't stand for this! The hyperactive Sana decides to dig deeper and find out what makes Akito tick, so class can go back to normal and the teacher can stop spending every day crying instead of teaching. But the more she learns about him, the more she realizes that there might be more to Akito than meets the eye.

AMV Genkis

9:00am - 10:00am Fan Creations 312

Join us for these hyper-active, fun, fast-paced AMVs to lighten your mood and get you pumped for the day.

Jam Zone: COCOLIA

9:00am - 10:00am Panel Republic

COCOLIA performs high-energy J-Pop and anime song covers, featuring iconic tracks such as "Gurenge," "Idol," "Kaibutsu," "Crossing Field," "Unravel," and "New Genesis," along with select city pop classics like "Stay With Me."

Japanese Snacks: A History and Why We Love Them

9:00am - 10:00am Panel Constitution B

Anyone with an interest in Japan quickly finds out about their vivid snack culture—in the recent years, due to YouTube, TikTok and subscription boxes, Japanese snacks are reaching more people than ever before. Come learn about some of the origins and lesser know traditional snacks, talk about the classics we know and love, explore some unique and fun treats and flavors, and find out more about what makes the Japanese snack industry so appealing to everyone!

A Brief Intro to ☆Idol Anime☆

9:00am - 10:00am Panel 310

Loving Oshi no Ko season 3? Looking for new anime recommendations? Then this panel is for you! Whether you're a long time wota or have never heard of an oshi, we'll be recommending all kinds of shows, going over the many subgenres, and exploring the true variety of idol anime. From schoolgirls to sci-fi, there's truly something for everyone!

Umamusume: The IRL Inspiration Behind Character and Scenario Design

9:00am - 10:00am Panel 202

An in-depth look at some of the characters and scenarios from the mobile game Umamusume: Pretty Derby and the IRL counterparts that inspired them. From racewear, to personalities, to scenario events, and even their friend groups, they all contain references to the IRL horses and the people behind them. We'll take a look at a few umas and see how much thought Cygames puts into each detail when designing them.

Queer Representation? In MY Shonen??

9:30am - 10:30am Panel Constitution A

. . . And Seinen? It's more likely than you think! That's right, even a tournament arc can't stop us from representing our community! So come find out the diversity you can find throughout these categories, whether it's good, bad, or just absolute garbage. Let's talk about it!

Rumic World: The Enduring Legacy of Rumiko Takahashi

9:30am - 10:30am Panel 309

Welcome to the Rumic World! This panel celebrates the impact of Rumiko Takahashi, one of manga and anime’s most iconic creators and a trailblazer for women in the industry. Starting with her breakout hit Urusei Yatsura, we’ll trace her career through beloved classics like Maison Ikkoku, Ranma ½, and Inuyasha. We’ll explore how her stories evolved over time, how they helped define fandom across generations, and why her work continues to inspire. With the new anime adaptation of Mao and successful remake of Ranma ½, we’ll also highlight how Takahashi’s influence continues to reach new audiences today.

Food Beyond the Ocean: A History of Yōshoku and Foreign Policy

9:30am - 10:30am Panel 207

Many well-known Japanese dishes, such as tonkatsu, Japanese curry, and omurice fall under the umbrella of yōshoku cuisine, literally 'Food of the (Western) Ocean'. The term originated in 1872, referring to dishes that inspired by European food and cooking, which became popular during the Meiji Restoration. This panel will connect Japan's historical interactions with foreign nations to the development of yōshoku, an undeniably Japanese, yet at the same time, 'nationality-less' cuisine. This panel will also cover other older Japanese dishes that are inspired by foreign cuisines, but are not classified as yōshoku.

Original Fan Animation

10:00am - 11:30am Fan Creations 312

From idea, to pencil and paper, to computer screen - this is a collection of original animations made by animators from around the world.

Pokémon Meet

10:00am - 11:00am Ballroom A

Looking for fellow cosplay fans from your fandoms? Meet up and take pictures at our cosplay gatherings, hosted by the fans, for the fans.

Opening Ceremonies

10:00am - 11:00am Memorial Auditorium

Welcome to Anime Boston! If you are ready to kick off the weekend with appearances by our Guests of Honor, highlights to see and do, then this event is not to be missed!!

Level Up Your Cosplay Wig: From Basic to Brilliant

10:00am - 11:00am Panel 208

Ready to take your cosplay wig styling from beginner to intermediate? You know how to style a cosplay wig… so why doesn’t it always look right? This panel is all about taking wigs from basic to polished. Learn intermediate techniques, avoid common styling mistakes, and get insight into the tools and wig brands that make the biggest difference. Perfect for cosplayers ready to level up their wig game.

Night on the Galactic Railway (PG-13)

10:00am - 12:00pm Hynes - 210

Giovanni is a young boy who lives on the outskirts of a small rustic village. His mother is bedridden and his father has not returned home since leaving to work on a fishing boat. An outcast at school, Giovanni has only one friend: Campanella, the mayor's son. During the town's Festival of Stars, Giovanni starts to daydream atop a hill and looks up to find a steam engine train floating in the air. He boards the train only to find his friend Campanella already there. And so, the two begin their journey through the stars where they come across unusual people and visit many beautiful and haunting places.

Anime in Commercials

10:30am - 11:30am Panel Constitution B

Back in the 60s, the first wave of American made-for-TV cartoons got off the ground as pitchmen for stuff like breakfast cereal. In Japan, and certainly in the realm of anime, it's been no different, and that trend has continued right up to the present day. So come and check out your favorite anime characters as pitchmen for candy, clothes, shoes, bikes, insurance, cars, and just about everything else under the sun.

The Turn of the Last Century: The Anime

10:30am - 11:30am Panel 310

Ever wondered what the first anime was? Are you a longtime fan of Black Butler? How about Fullmetal Alchemist? Steampunk? Did you watch recent romance anime like My Happy Marriage or Love Through a Prism? The turn of the twentieth century brought great change to not only Japan, but to the entire world. Come join us to explore and discuss this historical era and its influence on some of your favorite anime and manga!

Lost Art: Bobbin Lace for Beginners

10:30am - 11:30am Panel 202

Don't let crafting knowledge become extinct. Join competitive cosplayer Wings to learn the basics of how to create bobbin lace and how to apply it to your own cosplays. This panel will go over the basics of what bobbin lace making is and why it's classified as an endangered craft. We will also discuss what materials and tools you need to start doing it and ways to get started while on a budget. Finally, we'll talk about how all of this applies to cosplay with in person examples as well as a live demonstration and time for questions.

"Make It to Fake It" (How to Make EVA Foam Look Like Anything)

10:30am - 12:00pm Workshop Fairfax

EVA foam is a versatile material commonly used for making cosplay props and armor — but how do you make foam look like metal, wood, or any other material? This workshop will cover the basics of EVA foam and demonstrate the principles of weathering and material manipulation in a hands-on experience.

Jam Zone: Tamago

11:00am - 12:00pm Panel Republic

We are a band comprised of students from Berklee College of Music, we originally met as a part of Berklee's 1st ever J-Pop Ensemble class in Sept. of 2025 and after the end of the semester we decided to continue our playing together and form a band outside of the school curriculum. We played songs from recent anime, J-Pop hits, and some City Pop as well.

The Game Show Variety Hour

11:00am - 12:00pm Ballroom C

Grueling mini-games, awkward ice-breakers, Blind Battleship, Carrot in a Box, and more. We've (lovingly) stolen concepts and games from much better shows and crammed them all into one hour of fun. Watch as our voice actors vie for the title of Boston Supreme, a title we just made up and carries no legally binding authority. With Blake Shepard, Daman Mills, Jonah Scott, and Monica Rial,

Anime Fashion Crimes 4: 25% More Horses

11:00am - 12:00pm Panel Constitution A

Panel hosts Hanni Banani Cosplay, award-winning cosplayer with a BFA in Fashion Design from MassArt, and Chelle Belle Cosplay, a cosplay YouTuber with no sense of style, will ruthlessly judge anime fashion. From classic series to today’s top anime, no character is safe! Come cast your vote for the worst of the worst. The content and tone of the panel will be PG-13, with some humor that may be inappropriate for young children.

PPE for Pets

11:00am - 12:00pm Panel 309

Whether you're new to cosplay (photography) or an old hand, if there is an animal you care about in your life, come to this panel to review ways to keep them safe from the hazards of our hobby. This panel is for cosplayers and photographers, and covers small animals, large animals, and exotics. (Yes, the panel host will be paying the cat-tax)

Yuri in the Real World

11:00am - 12:00pm Panel 207

Ever wanted to read or watch yuri that dealt with real-world LGBT issues like identity and marriage? It can be hard to find, but it’s out there! Join Let’s Overanalyze for a panel that’s part history lesson, part recommendations session, as we discuss the greatest hits in this often-missed corner of the genre.

Aaron Dismuke Autograph Session

11:00am - 2:30pm Hynes - Ballroom B

Autograph times are subject to change.

Ricco Fajardo Autograph Session

11:00am - 3:00pm Hynes - Ballroom B

Autograph times are subject to change.

Joshua Waters Autograph Session

11:00am - 2:00pm Hynes - Ballroom B

Autograph times are subject to change.

Mark Whitten Autograph Session

11:00am - 2:00pm Hynes - Ballroom B

Autograph times are subject to change.

Welcome to Demon School! Iruma-kun Meetup

11:00am - 12:00pm Hynes - 109

Fire Emblem

11:00am - 12:00pm Hynes - 102

Sarah Wiedenheft Autograph Session

11:15am - 4:00pm Hynes - Ballroom B

Autograph times are subject to change.

In Your Feels

11:30am - 12:30pm Fan Creations 312

Sentiment, drama, nostalgia, or warm fuzzies; these AMVs will make you feel your feelings. A collection of AMVs so powerful that you might even shed a tear.

Um, Actually

11:30am - 1:30pm Events 304

Um, Actually is about what nerds love most, and that's correcting people. First featured on Dropout, it's Um, Actually!

Intro to Competitive Cosplay

11:30am - 12:30pm Panel 208

Have you ever been interested in starting to cosplay competitively but never knew where to begin? Well look no further, we are here to help! Between the three of us, we have over a decade of experience competing at several conventions and across various skill levels. Please join us for a presentation and Q&A sessions.

K-Pop Dance Workshopd

12:00pm - 1:00pm Ballroom A

Want to learn the choreography to the best K-Pop songs? Join us for a dance lesson by K!Junkies teaching the moves in a step-by-step workshop.

Here Comes the Bride! - The Red Weddings and Notorious Nuptials of Animation

12:00pm - 1:00pm Panel Constitution B

Marriage…it may be what brings us together today, but what if "the happiest day of her life" was the stuff of nightmares?

Living in the Database: An Anime Fandom Data Deep Dive

12:00pm - 1:00pm Panel 310

Everyone has opinions about how anime has changed, but what does the data actually say? Researchers from Carnegie Mellon University team up with FanserveUs to dig into industry reports and anime database archives, exploring genre trends, generational differences, and where things are headed in the industry. We'll share our findings and demo a tool that answers your anime questions using real data!

Introduction to Jirai Kei

12:00pm - 1:00pm Panel 202

Curious about jirai kei? This panel offers a comprehensive introduction to the fashion style, exploring its origins, cultural context, and evolution. We’ll discuss its connections to mental health themes and the ongoing conversation around jirai kei as a lifestyle versus a fashion movement. Plus earn about key elements of the style, including staple pieces, popular brands, related subcultures, and the growing community.

HIDIVE Presents "The Dangers in My Heart: The Movie" Boston Premiere (TV14)

12:00pm - 2:00pm Hynes - 210

An unlikely pair; a romance for the ages! Join us for the Boston subtitled premiere of The Dangers in My Heart: The Movie.

Touken Ranbu

12:00pm - 1:00pm Outside Room 313

Studio Ghibli

12:00pm - 1:00pm Under Escalators near Room 105

Genshin Impact Cosplay Meet

12:00pm - 1:00pm Hynes - 102

3DS StreetPass Meetup!

12:00pm - 1:00pm Hynes - 109

Creator Spotlights

12:30pm - 1:30pm Fan Creations 312

Creator Spotlights are a chance for AMV editors attending Anime Boston to introduce themselves and show off a few of their videos to a receptive audience as well as a chance for the audience to see the talented folks who make some of their favorite videos.

Anime Unscripted

12:30pm - 2:00pm Ballroom C

Anime Unscripted is the hit improv comedy tradition which has been at Anime Boston since day one. Watch as quick-witted guests take on the challenging games provided by your host. Of course, there's audience participation too, so you might get to be part of the show!

JoJo Jam Session: Talking Music with Coda

12:30pm - 1:30pm Panel Constitution A

Join us for a chat with Coda, the singer-songwriter behind the opening theme songs "BLOODY STREAM", "Crazy Noisy Bizarre Town", "Fighting Gold" and so much more music from the Jojo's Bizarre Adventure anime franchise!

Choosing Fabric for your Cosplay

12:30pm - 1:30pm Panel 309

Not sure what fabric to use for your next cosplay? Come to this panel to handle dozens of swatches and learn about the pros and cons of each type of fabric used in cosplay!

Plushies In Peril! - First Aid for Fans

12:30pm - 2:30pm Workshop Fairfax

Bring your plushies to this exciting panel! We'll go over medical scenarios drawn from across the Galaxies and Fandoms to highlight life saving knowledge applicable to Fans such as CPR, Choking, Stroke Recognition, Bleeding Control, and everyone's favorite splinting. After each scenario is presented we'll use our stuffed friends to practice real world skills taught by a decorated Critical Care Paramedic and Emergency First Aid and Medicine Instructor. We promise fun, plushy time, Dad Jokes, Hi Chews and some learning snuck in.Rating: All Ages

Media Literacy & You: How to Appreciate Anime/Manga

12:30pm - 1:30pm Panel 207

Now more than ever, there is an ever growing amount of media for us to consume! But how do we sort through and find what we enjoy and gain more from our experiences with media? Come learn some tips and tricks to really help you fall in love with anime and manga in a meaningful way!

Kujira Autograph Session

12:30pm - 1:30pm Hynes - Ballroom B

This autograph session is first-come-first-serve. Please do not line more than 15 minutes prior to start time. See our Autograph Policy for more information. Accepted items: Shikishi Boards Anime Boston Program Guides Anime Boston official postcards

Jonah Scott Autograph Session

12:30pm - 2:00pm Hynes - Ballroom B

Autograph times subject to change.

Monica Rial Autograph Session

12:30pm - 7:00pm Hynes - Ballroom B

Autograph times are subject to change.

Jam Zone: Berklee Anime Music

1:00pm - 2:00pm Panel Republic

Berklee Anime Band returns to Anime Boston to perform more openings, endings, and insert songs from your favorite anime. Come enjoy rock, pop, metal, funk, and jazz music with this crowd-pleasing performance! We will be playing a mash up of a bunch of anime and game songs including some of the latest openings and endings.

Yuri!!! On Ice at 10: A Look Back

1:00pm - 2:00pm Panel 208

When Yuri!!! On Ice first aired in 2016, it quickly became a global phenomenon. From its meticulously researched representation of international figure skating to professional choreography to its blatant queerness, YOI could have been a major game changer in sports anime, but its impact was limited in the years since its release. Ultimately, the follow-up prequel film Ice Adolescence was canceled by MAPPA in 2024. Join Magrathea and SongbirdSara as we look back on the series and its impact in the approach of its tenth anniversary in 2026.

Blake Shepard Autograph Session

1:00pm - 7:00pm Hynes - Ballroom B

Autograph times are subject to change.

CLAMP

1:00pm - 2:00pm Outside Room 313

GACHIAKUTA Photoshoot

1:00pm - 2:00pm Hynes - 102

Star Light Express Meetup

1:00pm - 2:00pm Hynes - 109

Team Fortress 2 Gathering

1:00pm - 2:00pm Under Escalators near Room 105

The AMVs That Made Us

1:30pm - 2:30pm Fan Creations 312

You love the AMVs your favorite creators made, but which AMVs inspired the creators to become creators? Phade hosts this panel of awesome AMV editors to show and tell the story of the early inspirational AMV they saw that inspired them to become an AMV editor.

Speed Friending (18+)

1:30pm - 2:30pm Social 110

Adult - (L) Chat with some cool new friends who love anime! If you’re feeling nervous, we got you covered with a variety of conversation topics. Just be yourself! Attendees must be 18 or older to participate. Pick up a reservation card in Programming Ops (Hynes 101)!

Ouran Academy Entrance Exam

1:30pm - 2:30pm Panel 310

Ouran is the elite private academy for those with high social standing and the rich. Although they do occasionally allow one audacious commoner in if they can pass the entrance exam with flying colors. Do you and your group have what it takes to get into this school for the wealthy or will you flunk out and go to public school?

So You Wanna Start An Anime Magazine

1:30pm - 2:30pm Panel Constitution B

The anime community lives and dies on the passion of its members. From the fanzines of the ‘80s, to elaborate Geocities shrines of the ‘90s, to the AniTubers of the ‘00s, there has always been a group of folks who’ve rolled up their sleeves, and gotten their hands dirty to spread the word of fandom. Many of these intrepid fans persevered through a combination of passion, grit, and a heck of a lot of learning by the seat of their pants. In its early days, though, the anime media landscape was vastly different, though. Publications like Anime-Zine, Protoculture Addicts, and Animag gave way to Animerica, Anime Insider, and Newtype USA. These publications provided vital news and commentary for the growing community, while providing a time capsule of their era.As the years went on, though, the anime world has changed, and the humble magazine has begun to evolve for this new era.Samantha Ferreira founded Anime Herald in 2010, and launched Anime Herald Magazine in 2025. In this panel, she aims to provide a brief history of the anime magazine, while pulling back the curtain as she discusses just what makes for a successful anime publication, and outlines the many pitfalls and "things to know" with regards to starting an anime magazine in the modern era.

Gundam Building - Beginner

1:30pm - 2:30pm Panel Gardner

Gundam Pros delivers a beginner friendly class for those just getting started in the world of Gunpla. Classes are 45-60 minutes, with plenty of time for Q&A. For more Gundam Building fun, head upstairs to the Gundam Building Room. Gundam kits not provided.

Pretty Cure: The Best Magical Girl Anime You've Never Heard Of

1:30pm - 2:30pm Panel 202

Pretty Cure (Precure) is a long-running magical girl franchise that's been around since 2004. Join me as I demystify what this series is all about and show off some of its most epic moments.

Speed Friending (18+)

2:00pm - 3:00pm Social 111

Cosplay In-Character Contest

2:00pm - 3:30pm Grand Ballroom

Anime Boston is proud to announce our first improv contest for cosplay performers! If you think you can stay in character through any adversity, this event may be for you.

Inside the Mind (and Voice) of Kujira

2:00pm - 3:00pm Panel Constitution A

What's it like to have voiced so many anime characters? How do you get inspiration to portray one of Naruto’s most iconic villains? If you’ve got questions for Kujira, join us here to get some answers!

Diagnosing Terminal Anime Mom Disease

2:00pm - 3:00pm Panel 309

Have you noticed how often anime protagonists have a tragic backstory where their mother has succumbed to a mysterious, but terminal, unnamed illness? Join an aspiring doctor on a biomedical journey! We will unpack the signs and symptoms of various anime mothers to create a list of probable diagnoses and develop our own theory. This panel will discuss medical related death in anime (mild content warning), but aims to bring levity by pointing out the absurdity of how often this trope appears. Note: this panel is not intended to diagnose real conditions, please see Dr. Ameku for that!

Cosplanning 101: Build Breakdowns

2:00pm - 3:00pm Panel 207

Ever want to make a cosplay but not know where to start? We are masters level cosplayers who are here to help! Join us for live cosplay breakdowns, where we recommend the skills, materials, and approach to make them yourself.

Princess Principal (PG-13)

2:00pm - 4:00pm Hynes - 210

In the early 20th century, the discovery of the substance Cavorite allowed the production of advanced military technology and steered the country toward conflict. London is now divided by a wall, and the Kingdom and the Commonwealth of Albion battle a silent war where espionage is the only weapon that can destabilize the enemy. A group of girls from the prestigious Queen's Mayfaire school work as undercover spies for the Commonwealth. Led by Dorothy, an experienced driver with a striking personality, their group includes the talents of Ange le Carré, a cold-blooded liar and expert sharpshooter; Chise, a proficient samurai; and Beatrice, a voice-mimicking specialist. They use their unique individual skills for the Commonwealth to survive in a dark world filled with conspiracy, mystery, and infiltration. In the shadow of the war, they have only one goal in mind: completing their mission.

Coda Autograph Session

2:00pm - 3:00pm Hynes - Ballroom B

This autograph session is first-come-first-serve. Please do not line more than 15 minutes prior to start time. See our Autograph Policy for more information. Accepted items: Official merchandise related to Coda’s works Anime Boston Program Guides Anime Boston official postcards Merchandise is available for purchase at the Anime Boston Merchandise Booth in the Dealer’s Room.

Zach Aguilar Autograph Session

2:00pm - 7:00pm Hynes - Ballroom B

Autograph times subject to change.

Magical Girl Media

2:00pm - 3:00pm Under Escalators near Room 105

JoJo's Bizarre Adventure

2:00pm - 3:00pm Outside Room 313

Arcane Meetup/Photoshoot

2:00pm - 3:30pm Hynes - 102

Twisted Wonderland

2:00pm - 3:00pm Hynes - 109

Cosplay Bingo

2:30pm - 3:30pm Events 304

Looking for a nice leisure activity at Anime Boston? Join us for Cosplay Bingo! Come by and relax while trying to match the cosplay image that is pulled to the characters on the card. Get five boxes completed in a row and get bingo! We hope you come and play!

The World of Hyuganatsu

2:30pm - 3:30pm Ballroom C

Come listen as Uririn talks about the world of Natsu Hyuga including titles beyond the "Apothecary Diaries." Listen as she shares insights on how Natsu Hyuga draws inspirations and creates fantastic stories and learn a little about this little wild boar Uririn herself.

JET – Japanese Exchange and Teaching Program Information Session

2:30pm - 3:30pm Panel 208

Ever wonder what it would be like to live and work in Japan? Curious about what Japanese culture is really like? Enjoy being around children? The Japan Exchange and Teaching Program, also known as "JET Program," is a Japanese government initiative that brings college graduates—mostly native speakers of English—to live and work in Japan in one of three positions. The JET Program began in 1987 as a way to improve exposure to international culture and language throughout Japan. Since then, thousands of young university graduates from around the world have participated on the JET Program. Come learn more about Japan, the JET Program, and life after "JET" – the ways in which Japan has influenced Americans from their professional to personal interests. Come see if the JET Program is right for you and get a jumpstart on preparing for the next application cycle.

Joshua Waters Autograph Session

2:30pm - 5:00pm Hynes - Ballroom B

Autograph times are subject to change.

Xander Mobus Autograph Session

2:30pm - 7:00pm Hynes - Ballroom B

Autograph times are subject to change.

WTF AMVs

2:45pm - 3:45pm Fan Creations 312

You’ll laugh, you’ll cry, you’ll scratch your head and scream "WHY?" Back once again for the eleventh year, this collection of out-there, random and bizarre AMVs is guaranteed to amuse, confuse and leave you wondering "What the heck did I just watch?"

Speed Friending (18+)

3:00pm - 4:00pm Social 110

Jam Zone: ASAMURI

3:00pm - 4:00pm Panel Republic

"We are a local J-pop cover band in Boston! Last year we performed 10 songs at Anime Boston 2025, including "Again" by YUI, "Void" by GBC, "Haru" by Yorushika, and "Yasashii Suisei" by YOASOBI. This year we are excited to bring our new setlist to Anime Boston 2026. Some songs on our list: "Crossing Field" by LiSA, "Departures" by EGOIST, "Bunny Girl" by AKASAKI, and "Magnet" by Miku & Luka. We're looking forward to performing for you at Anime Boston 2026!"

Gardening weeds (not weed) with Aaron Dismuke

3:00pm - 4:00pm Panel Constitution B

Always wanted to garden but in that abstract, lazy way that means you'll probably never do it? WELL come to my panel. I'll tell you some weeds you can eat, some good plants that think they're weeds, and how I like to garden all lazy like. I'll also discuss my upcoming webtoon HEXENGARTEN, which is about industrial necromancy and permaculture witchcraft.

Gundam Building - Intermediate

3:00pm - 4:00pm Panel Gardner

Gundam Pros delivers a class for those who are familiar with the basics of Gunpla, but are looking to improve their technique. Classes are 45-60 minutes, with plenty of time for Q&A. For more Gundam Building fun, head upstairs to the Gundam Building Room. Gundam kits not provided.

Plus Size Lolita Fashion

3:00pm - 4:00pm Panel 202

Interested in lolita, but worried you won't find anything in your size? In this body-positive panel, seasoned plus size lolitas discuss a wide range of subjects from taking accurate measurements, styles and fits to suit your shape, plus size brand options, and some tips and tricks for lolitas of all shapes and sizes!

Blink Twice: Intro to Electronics & Breadboarding for Cosplay

3:00pm - 4:30pm Workshop Fairfax

If circuitry scares you but you dream of cosplays/props with lights and special effects, come get hands on in this interactive workshop! Engineer and master cosplayer StarsOfCassiopeia will teach you the basics of electronics prototyping (breadboarding) and circuit design, leveraging a Raspberry Pi with prewritten code to make a set of LEDs blink on and off. We will also implement on/off switches, discuss additional special effects components, and discuss how to translate breadboarded circuitry to your final props & costumes. The kit of components is yours to keep at the end of class, so you can turn it into next year's amazing build!

Sakizo Autograph Session

3:00pm - 4:00pm Hynes - Ballroom B

Autograph session is first-come-first-serve. Accepted items: Official Artbooks Prints Prints are available for purchase at the Anime Boston Merch booth in the Dealer's Room. Restrictions: No pictures No touching

Turnabout Boston

3:00pm - 4:00pm Under Escalators near Room 105

Umamusume: Pretty Derby

3:00pm - 4:00pm Outside Room 313

DAN DA DAN

3:00pm - 4:00pm Hynes - 109

Speed Friending (18+)

3:30pm - 4:30pm Social 111

Formal Ball Dance Lessons

3:30pm - 4:30pm Ballroom A

Interested in learning a few steps before the Charity Ball? Come learn the basics of Waltz, Foxtrot, Rumba and Swing. Tickets to the Charity Ball and formal dress are required to attend.

How to Find Your Hadouken

3:30pm - 4:30pm Panel Constitution A

Join Ricco Fajardo in a one of a kind interactive panel featuring elements of tai chi chuan, stage combat, and /voice acting class where Ricco helps attendees discover their inner super move.

So... You Want to be a Pokémon Master?

3:30pm - 4:30pm Panel 309

Calling all Pokémon Trainers! Step into a high-energy, interactive Pokémon game show where fans of every generation can put their knowledge to the ultimate test. From the video games and anime to the trading card game and deep-cut lore, questions range from legendary moments to obscure trivia. Play along, compete against fellow fans, and win a huge variety of Pokémon prizes, including plushies, figures, rare cards, and countless collectibles from across the years. This is your chance to show off your skills, cheer on your friends, and prove once and for all that you have what it takes to be a true Pokémon Master!

K-Pop Roundtable

3:30pm - 4:30pm Panel 207

Gather around and anonymously submit your K-Pop opinions, comments, and confessions to be shared aloud by the hosts! Open discussion will be created for each submission where the hosts and attendees can (respectfully!) give their 'two cents' and even learn something new!

Jonah Scott Autograph Session

3:30pm - 7:00pm Hynes - Ballroom B

Autograph times subject to change.

Daman Mills Autograph Session

3:30pm - 7:00pm Hynes - Ballroom B

Autograph times are subject to change.

Mark Whitten Autograph Session

3:30pm - 7:00pm Hynes - Ballroom B

Autograph times are subject to change.

Sonic the Hedgehog

3:30pm - 4:30pm Hynes - 102

What Show Is That!?!

4:00pm - 5:00pm Fan Creations 312

Hmm, I don't seem to know what this is, do you? Our latest hit AMV game show returns, asking you to identify obscure anime, and prove you're an all-knowing anime master.

Cosplay Without Borders: How to Travel, Shoot, and Shine Overseas

4:00pm - 5:00pm Panel 208

Planning the trip of a lifetime to Japan or Asia? Dream of doing cosplay at overseas studios or real-world locations, but not sure where to start or what rules to follow? Learn all the details—etiquette, logistics, and costs—of cosplay while traveling abroad! All levels of travel and cosplay experience are welcome.

Memories - OVA collection (PG-13)

4:00pm - 6:00pm Hynes - 210

Magnetic Rose: In the far reaches of space, after tracing a distress signal to a large abandoned space station, a pair of engineers - Heintz Beckner and Miguel Costrela - find a derelict mansion and decide to explore on foot. Their investigation reveals a dark secret surrounding the fate of Eva Friedel, a renowned opera singer with a tragic history. Hallucinations soon begin to plague them, and they must fight to retain their sanity in order to escape the station alive. Stink Bomb: Hapless lab technician Nobuo Tanaka consumes some pills at his laboratory to cure a cold. Unknown to him, however, the pills are actually experimental drugs that enhance his flatulence to a lethal degree. As the toxic gas escaping him kills everyone in his vicinity, he is ordered by his superiors to retreat to the company headquarters in Tokyo. The journey to the city is made all the more arduous as Nobuo struggles with his deadly odor while the police, military, and foreign adversaries are hot on his trail. Cannon Fodder: In a fortress city filled to the brim with cannons, a young boy wishes to surpass his father by becoming a revered artillery officer. Despite no proof of an enemy nation, he cannot resist the urge to partake in the daily bombardment routines organized by the city. Whether at school or just before bedtime, he only dreams of someday firing a cannon for the sake of his homeland.

Aaron Dismuke Autograph Session

4:00pm - 7:00pm Hynes - Ballroom B

Autograph times are subject to change.

Greg Ayres Autograph Session

4:00pm - 7:00pm Hynes - Ballroom B

Autograph times are subject to change.

Fighting Games

4:00pm - 5:00pm Hynes - 109

Love Live! Cosplay Meetup

4:00pm - 5:00pm Outside Room 313

Gundam

4:00pm - 5:00pm Under Escalators near Room 105

Charity Ball

4:30pm - 7:30pm Ballroom A

Need to unwind after an event filled day at Anime Boston? Then why not spend the evening swaying to your anime and video game favorites, dressed to impress! Come join us for a sophisticated evening of glamour at Anime Boston’s only formal event: The Charity Ball. Formal dress required: suits and gowns. No jeans, sneakers, t shirts or mini skirts. See website for more dress code details.

Let's Play Forget-Me-Not With Sarah Wiedenheft

4:30pm - 5:30pm Panel Constitution B

Want to try your hand at an art game? In this game a character or object is chosen at random and you must draw them relying solely on memory under a time limit! In this game the stakes are low as there are no winners or losers—thank goodness—just the pressure of finishing your picture in time! ⏰

Level Up Your Skit

4:30pm - 5:30pm Panel 310

Join international recognition Clover Aura for tips and tricks to creating engaging masquerade skits

Plastic Love: A Crash Course To Anime Figures

4:30pm - 5:30pm Panel 202

Ready to learn just how much goes into buying that waifu figure? What about maintenance? Didn't get your order in on time? Ever had a scare that an expensive figure was a bootleg? Have no fear! We're here to teach everything we've picked up through the years that we wish we knew that first figure we picked up. Come find out the tips and tricks of the trade!

Why does everyone want to be a villainess?

4:30pm - 5:30pm Panel Gardner

In recent years there has been a new style of fantasy that's been popping up—one that looks to nobility and the drama that their lives entail. While the origins of these fantasy stories started by following commoners with special abilities being thrown into the world of nobles, only to marry the prince, as time has gone on the script has changed and taken a 180. The villainess is usually cast to harass the the poor commoner main character, until said main character steals her fianc&eacute and the villainess eventually reaches a bad end. This would be the fate that befalls most villainesses...however there has now been a change!! We now see new stories following characters who become villainesses, and try with all their might to avoid their fates. Join me as I talk about this new trend and the history of this trope!

Ricco Fajardo Autograph Session

4:30pm - 7:00pm Hynes - Ballroom B

Autograph times are subject to change.

Lip-Sync Battle

5:00pm - 6:30pm Events 304

Cosplay Lip Sync Battle is a bracket-style event where 16 competitors give their best lip sync performance to songs of their choice. For each bracket, the audience will cheer as loud as they can to vote for their favorite performance and move ahead to the next round of performances!

Burlesque Show (18+)

5:00pm - 7:00pm Grand Ballroom

Adult - (L)(S) Scarlett Mafia is back! Bringing you shimmies and shakes, we aim to tease! For the fourth year in a row, Scarlett Mafia brings your 2D fantasy to the stage ... however cursed it may be.

A Fantastical Hour with Sakizo

5:00pm - 6:00pm Panel Republic

The acclaimed Japanese artist Sakizo walks us through her art and explores the style of her designs. We'll discuss everything from inspiration to what goes into creating one of her unique pieces. Restrictions: No pictures No touching

Anime On Trial

5:00pm - 6:00pm Panel Constitution A

Order in the court! We're putting anime's biggest controversies on the stand in this mock trial style panel. Choose your role as defense, prosecution, or jury. Was Light Yagami really the villain, or just misguided? You decide!

Battle of the Bangers: Only One OP Can Win

5:00pm - 6:00pm Panel 309

We’re putting anime theme songs on trial — and you are the jury. Rate each opening, ending, and insert song live, react in real time, and answer on-screen questions as the competition heats up. Only the highest-rated anime will claim victory on the leaderboard!

Frills and Bills: A Lolita Shopping Guide

5:00pm - 6:00pm Panel 207

You've seen the Lolita 101 panel, you've read all about it on the Internet, and you want to join the fashion - but how do you buy your first dress? Join us in this panel to learn how to spend your hard earned cash on all the frills you desire! More experienced frillseekers can also hear about recommendations on shopping services, indie brands, navigating tariffs, and more!

K-Pop Demon Hunter Cosplay Gathering

5:00pm - 6:00pm Hynes - 109

Re:Zero Meetup

5:00pm - 6:00pm Under Escalators near Room 105

Tamagotchi Meetup

5:00pm - 6:00pm Outside Room 313

Identity V Cosplay Meetup

5:00pm - 6:00pm Hynes - 102

A Few of My Favorite Things

5:15pm - 6:15pm Fan Creations 312

Every AMV has a story and some hold a special meaning in our hearts. Phade hosts a show-and-tell session to share stories of AMVs that hold a personal meaning for him.

hololive Meet: Nerissa Ravencroft & Koseki Bijou

5:30pm - 6:30pm Ballroom C

Join Nerissa Ravencroft and Koseki Bijou of hololive English -Advent- for a live Q&A event!

What the heck is Danmei and why won't my friends shut up about it?

5:30pm - 6:30pm Panel 208

Do your friends never stop talking about Heaven Official's Blessing? What's a Shizun and why does everyone want him? Did you try The Untamed only to get lost along the way? If so, come join us to learn all about the up and coming Chinese boys' love genre, Danmei! We'll teach you the basics, from common themes to cultivation, and where to start your journey towards immortality.

Sketchbook Swap

5:30pm - 7:00pm Workshop Fairfax

Want to connect with fellow artists? Bring your sketchbook and have them doodled in while you doodle in other peoples! Artists of any level are welcome, this is for fun! We will provide some paper and basic tools for those that need it, but please try to bring your own!

Sarah Wiedenheft Autograph Session

5:45pm - 7:00pm Hynes - Ballroom B

Autograph times are subject to change.

Kings 21+ Lounge

6:00pm - 9:00pm Kings

Go off-location and hang with the AB fam at the 21+ Lounge at Kings (off-site, 50 Dalton St.). There’s drinks, food, music, and games! 21+ only; ID required. Entry is first come, first served.

The Mind That Built the Pokémon Anime

6:00pm - 7:00pm Panel Constitution B

Go behind the scenes of the early Pokémon anime and dive into the creative vision of Takeshi Shudō, the show’s chief writer during its formative years. Discover how he brought Pokémon’s characters, stories, and themes to life, with a special focus on his contributions to the first three movies. This panel takes fans on a lively journey through Shudō’s creative process, highlighting his bold storytelling choices, memorable arcs, and the tone that helped make Pokémon a global phenomenon. Get a rare look at one of the key voices that shaped the anime and see why his influence still resonates with fans today.

Intro to Sewing

6:00pm - 7:00pm Panel 310

Are you ready to start sewing!? In this panel we will go over the basics of how to get started sewing. From basic stitches on a sewing machine, different types or fabrics to use, and how to begin patterning something. This panel covers the beginning steps for anyone who wants to start sewing and creating their own masterpiece cosplays.

Macross & Music: Hear My Song!

6:00pm - 7:00pm Panel 202

Over the last 40 years, the Macross franchise has used both contemporary music and mecha as a backbone for stories of epic space travel and romance. This panel will be both a musical and anime retrospective of one of the most influential, long running series in history. Hear my song!

From Anime to ESPN: Who’s Really Winning?

6:00pm - 7:00pm Panel Gardner

What happens when gravity takes a back seat and teenage athletes have the emotional depth of Shakespearean heroes? You get volleyball spikes that could probably knock satellites out of orbit, tennis players serving literal fireballs, dystopian hunger-games-style soccer boot camps, skating routines that are love letters on ice, and long distance running that is 20% cardio and 80% therapy. This presentation hilariously breaks down just how far these shows stretch reality, and why real life athletes might wish they had half the budget for slow-motion monologues.

Flower and Asura (PG-13)

6:00pm - 8:00pm Hynes - 210

Since childhood, Hana Haruyama has been enthralled by the art of storytelling. After watching a child her age perform on television with mesmerizing grace, Hana decides to try it herself. She practices by reciting tales to Tonaki Island's children, who are always enthusiastic about her performances. However, growing up in such a small community, Hana remains unaware of the possibilities beyond her world, satisfied with how things are. Entering Sumomogaoka High School as a first-year student, Hana catches the attention of Mizuki Usurai, the president of the broadcasting club, with her skills. Despite Hana's hesitation and anxiety about the road ahead, Mizuki successfully convinces her to join the club, nurture her gift, and perhaps one day reach the top—the nationals of the NHK Broadcasting Competition.

Dragonball/Z/GT/Super/FighterZ/Xeno

6:00pm - 7:00pm Outside Room 313

Homestuck

6:00pm - 7:00pm Under Escalators near Room 105

Hunter x Hunter

6:00pm - 7:00pm Hynes - 102

NINTENDO Meetup and Photoshoot

6:00pm - 7:00pm Hynes - 109

AMV the Musical

6:15pm - 7:15pm Fan Creations 312

The orchestra has finished tuning up, and the curtain is rising. Come check out this collection of AMVs using music from Broadway musicals.

Yoko Kanno Concert

6:30pm - 8:30pm Memorial Auditorium

Join us for an evening of unforgettable music as Japanese composer Yoko Kanno takes to the stage for a stunning piano performance. Please note: This is a ticketed event. Seating begins at 6:00 PM

HIDIVE Presents The Most Heretical Lass Boss Queen Season 2 North American Premiere

6:30pm - 7:30pm Panel Republic

Pride Royal Ivy returns in the second season of this ‘reincarnated as the villainess’ isekai series! Join HIDIVE as Pride attempts to take control of her narrative and prevent her own demise.

How Doomed Are Your Gays? A Study of Color-Coded Yaoi and Yuri Ships

6:30pm - 7:30pm Panel Constitution A

Are you a fan of doomed yuri? Or rivals yaoi? Have you seen certain color patterns, personality types, or plot points within more than one of your favorite ships? Come join us for an exploration of popular color pairings in yaoi and yuri. We will discuss black-white doomed yaoi, pink-purple doomed yuri, and red-blue rivals (both yaoi and yuri) in stories including Omniscient Reader’s Viewpoint, Mo Dao Zu Shi, Madoka Magica, Ace Attorney, and more!

Breaking Character Design Down to Color

6:30pm - 7:30pm Panel 309

An entertaining discussion about dreaded color theory. Tying it in with popular characters to draw comparisons between people's perception of the characters' personality and their color theme. Great for beginner creatives who haven't grasped the complexity of color.

The Japanese Economy through the lens of the Yakuza games

6:30pm - 7:30pm Panel 207

The Yakuza series has been a long staple of the beat-em-up genre, and it’s dedication to (mostly) accurately portraying the time periods it’s set in has been consistent from the beginning. Join us to learn about developments in the Japanese economy and their portrayal in the yakuza games, a timeline that spans from the late 80’s up to present day.

K-Pop Game Show

7:00pm - 8:00pm Events 304

Test your K-Pop knowledge in various rounds of trivia and guessing games!

The Power of Friendship: Collaboration in Cosplay

7:00pm - 8:00pm Panel 208

It’s dangerous to go alone, but not with friends by your side! As cosplay competitions become more competitive, photoshoot ideas become more ambitious, and new mediums are created, collaboration may become inevitable to bring ambitious projects to life. Join 4 award-winning cosplayers, artists, dancers, and technologists with decades of combined experience in their fields to define what makes a successful project collaboration. This panel will cover how to identify trusted collaborators, the project management of partnership, and the etiquette around giving and receiving feedback. Along with lessons they have learned along the way, our panelists hope to inspire you to further develop positive bonds within your community of creators!

EPIC: The Musical

7:00pm - 8:00pm Hynes - 109

The Hundred Line: Last Defense Academy

7:00pm - 8:00pm Under Escalators near Room 105

Clair Obscur: Expedition 33 Meetup

7:00pm - 8:00pm Hynes - 102

HellaVerse gathering

7:00pm - 8:00pm Outside Room 313

I'm not OLD, But My Knees ARE Creaking (2006)

7:15pm - 8:00pm Fan Creations 312

A trip through time - Come see some classic AMVs from Anime Boston's past AMV Contests! This time we're setting our sights on the year 2006.

Speed Friending (18+)

7:30pm - 8:30pm Social 110

Nisioisin: Japan's Prolific, Eccentric Storyteller

7:30pm - 8:30pm Panel 310

Few light novel and manga authors can compete with Nisioisin when it comes to the sheer breadth of works he's been the creative mastermind behind: Monogatari, Katanagatari, Medaka Box, Zaregoto, Zodiac War, Pretty Boy Detective Club, Cipher Academy, and more. Each a vastly different genre - Drama, Mystery, Shonen Action, Battle Royale, Puzzle - and yet each unmistakably his. Whether its his strange puns, tricks of language, tongue-twisting names, winding conversations, or avant-garde narrative structures, he always leaves his mark. In this panel, we'll explore all of what makes Nisioisin such a unique author, and why you should dive head first into his eccentric worlds.

Lolita Hell: The Bad, the Cringe, and the Ugly (18+)

7:30pm - 8:30pm Panel 202

Adult - (L) Lolitas are lovelies, right? WRONG! Come along for a ride through the lolita community's funniest, strangest, and cringiest moments.

Let's $ew! Donuts

7:30pm - 9:30pm Workshop Fairfax

$15.00 per student.All skill levels welcomeAges 13+, or bring a parent or guardian, please.Mmmmh, donuts. Low in fat, high in fiber, and it makes a great cosplay prop! (Do not eat. These taste TERRIBLE, no matter how filling they may be!)

Instrumental AMVs

8:00pm - 9:00pm Fan Creations 312

A light breeze fills the room as the violins begin to play, suddenly massive drums charge in and a war is about to break out on the battlefield. These are Instrumental AMVs, come and see the highlight of classical and movie scores come to life using your favorite anime.

Speed Friending (18+)

8:00pm - 9:00pm Social 111

NEEDY GIRL OVERDOSE - Special Feature Screening! (18+)

8:00pm - 10:00pm Ballroom C

Adult - (L)(S)(V) Are you ready to gaze upon the greatest "Internet Angel" to captivate the world wide web? Join KAngel and the rival group Karamazov in this chaotic internet of the modern day, as we bring you an exclusive US showing of episodes in a special arrangement previously shown only in Japanese theaters! Come enjoy a special nearly 60-minute preview screening of the TV anime NEEDY GIRL OVERDOSE! (This screening contains mature content. Viewer discretion is advised.)

Katsura Sunshine: Friday Rakugo Performance

8:00pm - 9:30pm Panel Republic

A show of hilarity and culture in equal doses! Katsura Sunshine completed his grueling traditional apprenticeship in Rakugo comic storytelling under the great Rakugo Master Katsura Bunshi VI in 2011. His performances have delighted audiences throughout the world as well as all over Japan. Sunshine has graced the Broadway stage with a different delightful Japanese story each month since 2019, at the famous New World Stages in Manhattan. Come for an hour of laughter and leave with a piece of Japan in you heart!

Technology and Loneliness: A Closing Gap

8:00pm - 9:00pm Panel 309

Does all this tech have you feeling isolated? You’re not alone! Discover how anime has dealt with this issue for decades, and how connects with us now more than ever. After a period of rapid technological advancement, Japanese society has dealt with the hopes, fears, and loneliness of communications technologies for decades. We'll dive into years of media, and learn how anime and manga can provide insight and catharsis for a rapidly digitized world.

Hentai by Women, for Women: An Intro to Josei Smut (18+)

8:00pm - 9:00pm Panel 207

Adult - (L)(S) Hentai for women? It's more common than you think! While the main market for hentai has historically been centered around men, there's an entire, overlooked world of erotic comics aimed at women! In this introductory panel, we'll be going over history, themes, reputation, growing availability, and even some spicy recommendations! So come along for this trip through the exciting world of pornographic comics and stories aimed at women; you might just find something you like!

Chuunibyou and You: Embracing Your Inner Edgelord

8:00pm - 9:00pm Panel Constitution A

If your right hand has ever ached from the evil power within, if you've ever carried a sword around or walked the line between light and darkness—come, this panel is for you.

2.5 Dimensional Seduction (PG-13)

8:00pm - 11:00pm Hynes - 210

After a disastrous romantic confession, Masamune Okumura finds solace in the fictional world of anime and manga. Now a second-year high school student and the president of the Manga Research Club, Masamune spends a peaceful existence watching the adventures of the angel Liliel, his favorite character. In the beginning of the academic year, Masamune’s life is turned upside down when he meets first-year student Ririsa Amano, a passionate cosplay practitioner. Despite Masamune's initial reluctance, the determined young woman manages to convince him to become her personal photographer for the production of a collection dedicated to their common favorite character: Liliel.

Omniscient Reader's Viewpoint [ORV]

8:00pm - 9:00pm Under Escalators near Room 105

Panty and Stocking

8:00pm - 9:00pm Outside Room 313

Who Wants to be an Animillionaire?

8:30pm - 10:00pm Events 304

IT'S BACK ONCE AGAIN for its 14th overall year at Anime Boston! Based on the classic hit game show, come join the fun and experience the Anime edition of Who Wants to be a Millionaire!

Swap Meet

8:30pm - 10:30pm Ballroom A

Have you ever bought something and later wished you’d chosen something else? Then Swap Meet may be the place for you. Tables and dedicated floor space must be reserved in advance. Walk-ins are welcome, but all items must be kept on your person and you may not bring in wagons, suitcases, totes, or other similar storage items.

After Dark Dating Game (18+)

8:30pm - 10:00pm Grand Ballroom

Adult - (L)(S) Not having much luck in the dating game? Would you rather stay home and watch anime? Well, lucky you! So would these cosplayers! Please join us as we assist these lucky bachelors and bachelorettes as they find the love of their lives (for the weekend at least).

BL Royale: The Ultimate Quiz (18+)

8:30pm - 9:30pm Panel 208

Adult - (L)(S) Calling all shameless BL/yaoi fans! Are you ready for categories, like "AO3 Shenanigans," "Name that Kink," and "Guess the Monster Boy?" Then come to BL Royale and test your knowledge! You may even win some BL/yaoi themed prizes.

Live Action AMVs

9:00pm - 9:45pm Fan Creations 312

We are taking you beyond the world of animation! Watch as editors take music videos from the world of anime, into the world of live-action series & movies.

Speed Friending (18+)

9:00pm - 10:00pm Social 110

AMV Contest

9:00pm - 12:00am Memorial Auditorium

Anime Boston's annual exhibition and competition for fan-created music videos. Competitors from across the globe sink sometimes hundreds of hours of effort into these works of creative fandom. Our judges have selected the finalists, but the winners will be decided by votes from the audience: you!

Weird, Funny, and Informative Japanese PSAs

9:00pm - 10:00pm Panel Constitution B

Everyone knows about weird and wacky Japanese commercials, but have you seen their weird (and sometimes super artistic) Public Service Announcements? This is a showcase of Japanese PSAs, covering topics like bullying, nuclear safety (both from power plant meltdowns and North Korean missile attack!), public etiquette, health, and Pikachu teaching you how to safely evacuate a Boeing 787 in the event of a water landing, for some reason. You're going to learn something.

Leather in Cosplay From Hide to Hero

9:00pm - 10:00pm Panel 310

Cosplay is about bringing characters to life and one way to do that can be with natural and historical materials such as leather! An age-old profession now newly-turned niche for cosplayers is a specialty for Wig-Wig Cosplay, authors of Leather in Cosplay, From Hide to Hero! Bring your hide (oh boy, leather puns) and questions as they take you through the tools and trade of using leather in cosplay.

Archiving Your Collections - From An Actual Archivist!

9:00pm - 10:00pm Panel Gardner

Ever wonder how to best maintain your collections of anime memorabilia? Come learn the basics of paper, cloth, and digital preservation and maintenance from an archivist! We will explore the best at-home ways you can care for them as professionals yourself! Come learn and ask those burning questions!

Introduction to Oshikatsu

9:00pm - 10:00pm Panel 202

Do you see ita bags and wonder what they are? Hear the terms oshi or oshikatsu and wonder what they mean? Well, this panel will go over all of that and more! In this panel we will also go over what crafts you can do to express love for your oshi and where materials can be found!

[BL] Nitro+CHiRAL VN Cosplay Meetup | Togainu no Chi, Lamento, Sweet Pool, DMMd, & Slow Damage

9:00pm - 10:30pm Hynes - 102

Yakuza/Like A Dragon | Judgement

9:00pm - 10:00pm Outside Room 313

Obscure/Niche/Classic JRPG Meetup

9:00pm - 10:00pm Hynes - 109

Speed Friending (18+)

9:30pm - 10:30pm Social 111

Let's Edit! A Beginner-Intermediate Cosplay Photo Editing Tutorial

9:30pm - 10:30pm Panel 309

Come learn skills in Photoshop and Lightroom as we edit a photo together! From lighting and color grading to skin and wig smoothing and more! Learn skills such as using curves layers for lighting and color grading, using layer masks, skin and costume edits using frequency separation (including using the patch tool, healing brush and clone stamp), dodging highlights and burning shadows to create depth, and more!

Humans are Disposable: The Manga of Naoki Yamamoto

9:30pm - 10:30pm Panel 207

Adult - (S) A presentation about erotic manga artist Naoki Yamamoto, who has alternately been the subject of both censorship and prestigious awards.

Historical References in Fullmetal Alchemist

9:30pm - 10:30pm Panel Constitution A

A deep dive into the historical and real-world references that inspired Hiromu Arakawa's hit manga and anime series Fullmetal Alchemist! Learn about the inspirations behind character names and designs, plot points, and more!

50% off

9:45pm - 11:45pm Fan Creations 312

50% OFF back for another year (keep showing up, and it keeps happening). Are we on a swim team?

Anime Armaments & 'Toon Tactics

10:00pm - 11:00pm Panel Republic

What does the Colt.45 have over the almighty Wave Motion Gun? Why does the German Panzerkampfwagen tank beat out the RX-78 Mobile Suit Gundam? How can Judō possibly beat the feared Musabetsu Kakutō Ryū martial arts style? The answer is simple…REALITY!! Strap on your flak-jacket and bring a helmet as we showcase and discuss the all-too-rare accurate depictions of military hardware, tactics and strategy in animation.

Androgyny in Anime

10:00pm - 11:00pm Panel 208

Ever heard the question "is that character a boy or a girl?" when showing off your favorite anime character? Anime is the perfect playground for exploring how gender can be expressed beyond the male/female binary, as there are no limits to the ways a character can be designed or written. Fan-favorite characters often include bishounen "pretty boys," whose slender figures don’t stop them from wielding giant swords, and bifauxnen "prince charming" girls, whose masculine looks and cool demeanors are fawned over by other girls at their schools. This panel seeks to define what features in characters are considered androgynous and explore how these non-conforming characteristics are viewed by other characters and received within the anime as a whole.

Pastie Making 201 (18+)

10:00pm - 11:30pm Workshop Fairfax

Adult - (S) Nailed the basics? Circle, heart, even star? Wanna take those skills to the next level? Join Scarlett Mafia in another informative workshop where you will learn two new shapes, image splicing, and backing techniques for fun, nerdy pasties!! Cost is $15, supplies included. Cash, Cash App, Venmo, and Zelle all accepted.

An EMT’s Guide to Anime Injury Logic (18+)

10:30pm - 12:00am Panel Constitution B

Adult - (L)(V) Have you ever been watching a good anime fight and asked yourself, "HOW DID THEY NOT DIE!?" Well, now’s your chance to get answers to that age-old question. Join Sparky_Cosplays, a NYC 911 EMT who has treated absolutely every kind of injury you can imagine, as they go over some of your favorite anime fight scenes and evaluates the injuries and suspected mortality of these combatants through an emergency medicine point of view.

Anime You May have Missed

10:30pm - 12:00am Ballroom C

Ever feel like you're the only one who’s seen an amazing anime that no one talks about? Or maybe there’s a show you love but wouldn’t dare mention at work? This panel dives into the incredible but overlooked anime that deserve more love—along with the ones you secretly binge when no one’s looking. From underrated masterpieces to guilty pleasures you wouldn’t admit to your grandma, we’ll cover the best-hidden treasures and the most scandalous indulgences in anime. Come ready to take notes, confess your sins, and maybe even discover your next obsession!

Yaoi Jeopardy (18+)

10:30pm - 12:00am Panel 310

Adult - (L)(S) Calling all Fujoshis and Fudanshis! Have you read enough Yaoi/BL to fill multiple bookshelves? Watched enough BL to make your streaming service concerned? Do you instantly recognize red flags, cursed height differences, and "just one bed" situations? Then come prove it in this Jeopardy-style BL trivia panel. Expect laughs, bad decisions, and the horrifying realization that you actually know the answer to all of these.

Anime and Manga Studies - I Want to Learn More!

10:30pm - 11:30pm Panel Gardner

You can now walk into your favorite bookstore (or go on Amazon) and buy a collection of scholarly essays on isekai anime. And many colleges and universities are offering classes on Japanese animation and Japanese comics. Just as the popularity of anime and manga is growing all around the world, "anime and manga studies" is developing as an academic field. In this panel, you will learn about the more than 30-year history of anime and manga studies, find out about some of the most exciting new developments in this area, learn about useful research tools, and get answers to your questions about how you too can start on your path to becoming an anime scholar!

Manga Ebooks and Webtoons

10:30pm - 11:30pm Panel 202

Curious about manga ebooks or webtoons, but don’t know where to start? We will go over how to save money, where to buy, subscription sites, formats, hardware, and more.

Atlus | Persona

10:30pm - 11:30pm Hynes - 102

Drag Show (18+)

11:00pm - 12:00am Grand Ballroom

Adult - (L) Experience a groundbreaking fusion where cosplay embraces drag in a spectacular showcase at Anime Boston. Local drag talents dazzle in anime-inspired attire, blending flamboyant drag artistry with the imaginative realm of cosplay. This unique event celebrates a colorful convergence of fandoms, igniting the stage with bold performances in a realm where two vibrant subcultures meet.

Himbos and Husbandos : A History of Otome Games

11:00pm - 12:00am Panel Constitution A

Visual novels and adventure games are a critical part of the gaming history and culture. However it's often an overlooked genre, and even more so with Otome games, a genre of romance VNs dedicated to a female demographic. From Angelique to Amnesia to Love and Deepspace, these powerhouses of romance and story appeal to the hearts of women and girls everywhere! But where would one go if they're looking for a caring man, a dashing hero, or maybe a charming villain? Join us as we show you the ropes of the history of Otome games, how to get into them, and why this is a critical genre in gaming.

Materia Girl: Women in Final Fantasy, On Screen and Behind the Scenes

11:00pm - 12:00am Panel 309

In a medium often criticized for its portrayal of women, Final Fantasy was ahead of the curve in ways outside the obvious. Take a critical look at the evolution of this legendary franchise and its relationship with women, both fictional and real, as we dig into how social movements and other media shape the series' development.

No, Zeon are not the Good Guys of Gundam: The Zanny Zabis

11:00pm - 12:00am Panel 207

The original Gundam series started in 1979, teaching every child an important point that space dictatorships are terrible people that don't care for anything but power over everyone. Heroic Amuro and the rest of the White Base crew survived a number of Life or Death situations (and a notable number of them have not), and eventually put a to stop a terrible war that wiped out half of the human population total. From then on, the terrible nightmare of the Universal Century continued to feed into endless conflicts that fed the coffers of corrupt companies, armies of power hungry monsters, and shelves of gunpla for the fans. This is not to say that Gundam does not have any nuance. Many of the stories, be they anime, novels, manga, or even video games, introduced alternative points of view on the story of Universal Century, showing that suffering was included for everyone involved. But it was Principality of Zeon's own Zabi Family that eagerly dug graves not just for themselves, but for majority of the humanity in the Universal Century. So join us for the discussion of those Zanny Zabis and their awful decisions that allowed Zeon to be led by men whose evil is unquestionable compared to Earth Federation incompetence. Except Big John, he's a saint.

Taskmaster (18+)

11:30pm - 2:00am Events 304

Adult - (L) Come perform unique tasks in unexpected ways in this creative game show inspired by BBC’s "Taskmaster."

HIDIVE Presents Yowayowa Sensei North American Premiere (18+) (TVMA)

11:30pm - 12:00am Hynes - 210

Hiyori Hiwamura is known as the "Scary Teacher" who will curse you if she gets offended, but she’s secretly a total cutie pie! Bring an apple for the teacher and join HIDIVE for the premiere of this ecchi romcom.

Saturday, April 04, 2026

216 events

Fanservice & Ecchi AMVs (18+)

12:00am - 1:00am Fan Creations 312

Adult - (L)(S) Bathing suits, panties, lewd behavior, revealing clothing (or a lack thereof), and more jiggling than a bowl of Jell-O during an earthquake. With this clothing-challenged collection of AMVs, skin is in.

Slumber Party

12:00am - 1:30am Ballroom A

Come join us for AB’s snuggly slumber party! Come to chill, chat, play games, watch some anime, paint your nails, color, and more! Bring your friends or come alone; there’s plenty to do! Come in your normal clothes, your PJs, or a slumber party cosplay! All ages welcome.

JoJo's Bizarre Extended Universe

12:30am - 1:30am Panel 310

Your next words are: "JoJo's Bizarre Adventure simply can't be contained!" Beyond the award-winning manga and anime series lies an entire MULTIVERSE of both official and unofficial spin-off material! Light novels, spin-off manga, video games, dramas, fan works, and more! Between those, and exploring the differences in canon between the manga and anime, as well as touching briefly on references to Araki's other works, we have a lot of ground to cover! Just like stand users, we JoJo fans are inherently drawn to each other, like gravity! So fulfill your blood's destiny and come along!

Terrorism in Anime

12:30am - 2:00am Panel 309

Also known as "Depictions of Terrorism in Japanese Media", let's try to jam a semester's worth of course work into a two hours panel! It's only seventeen weeks of readings, viewings, discussion, and essays, how hard can it be?Every notice how so many protagonists of anime and gaming are terrorists? The first thing you do in Final Fantasy VII is blow up a power station, Lelouch of Code Geass vows to make the world hate him to save his country, and the episode of Cowboy Bebop where Spike Speigel faces off with a literal Cowboy was pulled from the air for over a year after September 11th.Terrorism isn't perceived the same way in Japanese media as it is in the U.S., and there's actually very good reasons for this. While not extensive, this panel gives an overview of the historical, cultural, and entertainment differences between Japan and most Western media.Now with a google classroom and a syllabus!

Nightmares! Nightmares! Nightmares! (18+)

1:00am - 2:00am Fan Creations 312

Adult - (V) Do you enjoy a little horror before you sleep? Join us for this years nightmare Fuel. For those who enjoy horror, psychological, or just disturbing images to help you sleep away the darkest timeline.

Cromartie High School (PG-13)

8:00am - 10:00am Hynes - 210

Takashi Kamiyama is your typical mild-mannered high school student—polite, aloof, and pacifistic, with a slightly above-average IQ. But would your average high school student really enroll himself at the infamous Cromartie High School, known as a breeding ground for the toughest delinquents out there? Apparently so, as that is exactly what Takashi does, though for reasons he'd rather leave unmentioned. However, one thing is for sure: the "hard-boiled rabbit in a den full of hungry lions" is never going to have another dull day. And how could he, now that he's surrounded by mohawked punks, obnoxious robots, and... gorillas? And was that Freddie Mercury riding a horse down the corridor? Follow Takashi as he earnestly dedicates his new high school life to better his school's reputation while his classmates are hellbent on wreaking havoc.

Japanese and Korean Music in AMVs

9:00am - 10:00am Fan Creations 312

Are you a fan of J-Pop or K-Pop music? We are too! If you and your friends have nowhere to go this morning and feel like Stray Kids, Join us at Fan Creations to experience a variety of AMVs using a mix of Japanese and Korean music!

Jam Zone: Kitefin

9:00am - 10:00am Panel Republic

High energy j-rock, video game, and anime music covers with unique arrangements and instrumentation

Beginner's Guide to Tokusatsu

9:00am - 10:00am Panel 202

Do you like Kamen Rider or Super Sentai? Are you a fan of guys in suits performing over-the-top fight scenes in front of a plethora of pyrotechnics? Or are you just curious of what exactly is this type of media and why it appeals to its fanbase? Join KaminariKeeler as he outlines Tokusatsu and how to get into this long-running genre!

I like my men fictional with trauma! Welcome to Otome!

9:00am - 10:00am Panel 310

Do you ever wish you could date the fictional men of your dreams? Look no further than your phone to find the answer! Capturing the hearts of women everywhere are men from otome games. Love and Deepspace, all of the Ikemen Series, Twisted Wonderland and more! These games are changing not just the anime industry, but also large corporations, as well as everyday life and dating standards. Don't forget to fall in love with a fictional man on the way out!

The History of Kyoto Animation

9:00am - 10:00am Panel Constitution B

Do you love Clannad, A Silent Voice, and Violet Evergarden? Did the animation in City and Nichijou blow your mind? What makes these shows stand out so much? Come learn about the history of Kyoto Animation, and the qualities that make them so unique in the anime world. As one of the only fully independent anime studios, KyoAni has had a major influence not only on the anime fandom, but how anime is created and distributed today. We will discuss every show they’ve ever worked on, and the artists and creators who have played a role in this unique studio.

Cosplay Posing 101

9:30am - 10:30am Panel 207

Need to take your cosplay photos to the next level? Learn how to create visual interest and dynamics with your pose from veteran cosplayers and published models. All bodies are cosplay bodies!!

Katsura Kogorō in history vs. anime (and other fiction)

9:30am - 10:30am Panel Gardner

Kido Takayoshi (Katsura Kogorō) was a prominent figure in the Bakumatsu period who inspired many creators. If you liked his character in "Rurouni Kenshin", "Samurai Jam -Bakumatsu Rock-", "Bakumatsu", or maybe his alter ego Katsura Kotarō in "Gintama", you might want to learn more about the real person and his spectacular life story. We'll be comparing known facts from his biography and his depiction in anime, debunking some myths and explaining how they came to life, and telling more historical anecdotes and myths.

Millennium History: Yu-Gi-Oh Duel Monsters and Ancient Egypt

9:30am - 10:30am Panel 309

The sands of time hide artifacts that tell us of what life was once like in ancient Egypt—culture, lifestyle, inventions, religion and even mythology. Join us as we take a journey through what life in Ancient Egypt was like and explore the parallels seen in the popular series: Yu-Gi-Oh! Duel Monsters!

The Lasting Impact of the Rose of Versailles

9:30am - 10:30am Panel Constitution A

The Rose of Versailles was first published in 1972 and still has a lasting impact on fandom. Why is it so popular? We’ll talk about the series, share some examples of its influence, and try to answer the question of why its popularity continues to this day. Come and learn more about this enduring series and share what makes it so important to you.

Bite-Sized AMVs

10:00am - 10:30am Fan Creations 312

So Small, so quick, such AMVs! I can hardly wai-

AMV Contest

10:00am - 1:00pm Ballroom C

That 2008 Feeling: Exploring the Era of the 2000s Anime Bubble

10:00am - 11:00am Panel 208

In the beginning, the anime community was small, scattered, and quiet; cons like Anime Boston were but a pipe dream, and the "newest anime" was whatever your local connection could scrounge together. Suddenly, in 1998, a Pikachu-shaped meteor crashed into the fandom, causing seismic ripples that would reshape the industry today. In the years that followed, the quirky subculture we all knew and loved would blossom into a behemoth, as new fans entered the hobby by the thousands, and publishers scrambled to keep them happy. It seemed like the great times would last forever, though if one put their ear to the ground, they could hear the sounds of a bubble that was getting ready to burst... Samantha Ferreira delivers an on-the-ground chronicle of the 2000s anime bubble, combining years of research and contemporary sources, to paint a picture of the times leading up to and through the period, and the immediate aftermath.

Professor Layton and the Eternal DIVA

10:00am - 1:00pm Hynes - 210

Amateur detective Professor Layton is invited to a former student's operatic performance, just as London is rocked by a string of disappearances.

GACHIAKUTA Cosplay Meetup

10:00am - 11:00am Under Escalators near Room 105

Atlus | Persona

10:00am - 11:00am Hynes - 109

Honkai Star Rail

10:00am - 11:00am Hynes - 102

Critical Role

10:00am - 11:00am Outside Room 313

Sakizo Autograph Session

10:00am - 11:00am Hynes - Ballroom B

Catch 'em All!

10:30am - 11:30am Fan Creations 312

What better way to start your morning than with a little bit of nostalgia? Enjoy some AMVs that invoke the idea of a journey. Your imagination of adventure. and your quest to be the very best. Come one and all to help catch them all.

"Dynamic Daggers" (Hands On EVA Foam Workshop For Beginners)

10:30am - 12:00pm Workshop Fairfax

EVA foam is a versatile material commonly used for making cosplay props and armor — In this workshop we will educate you on the different kinds of foams and their applications within Cosplay and Prop-Making. Class participants will be provided the materials, tools, and instruction for a hands-on experience making and priming a unique EVA foam dagger as an entry level build project into working with EVA foam prop making. All participants get to take home what they've created!

Collaborating with Manga Creators: Inside Manga Mavericks Books

10:30am - 11:30am Panel 202

Have you ever wondered what it's like to publish manga? Manga Mavericks went from being a manga podcast and news site to a professional manga publisher that directly works with Japanese manga creators! Listen to the founders of Manga Mavericks Books talk about the challenges of establishing a manga publisher in the present day, and what you can do to help get more manga out in English!

Dubs that Time Forgot

10:30am - 11:30am Panel 310

For 60+ years now, Japanese anime has spanned the globe as a mass media phenomenon. During that time, hundreds of companies have dubbed thousands of hours of anime into English. A precious few have survived to become favorites, but many more dubbed versions of anime have sank into obscurity. Join host Mike Toole for a fascinating look into the secret history of Japanese animation in English, as we uncover alternate dubs of old favorites, TV-only obscurities, pilot films, sales reels, and other surprises

Shimakutuba: All about the Ryukyuan Languages!

10:30am - 11:30am Panel Constitution B

Mensoore! This panel is about Ryukyuan, a family of languages which are sister to Modern Japanese. Today, they are spoken in Okinawa and several islands in Kagoshima Prefecture (previously, the Ryukyu kingdom). You'll learn how to say some basic phrases, and I'll also tell you about some of the features of these languages that make them interestingly different (compared to Japanese and other more-familiar languages). We will also discuss their history—how they came to be, their current status, and their future. No knowledge of Japanese or linguistics required!

Jam Zone: Que Seran Paseran

11:00am - 12:00pm Panel Republic

We are a J-POP cover band based in the New England region. Our repertoire spans a wide range of eras, from the 1970s to the present day. Focusing on Japanese female bands and artists such as Rebecca, Princess Princess, Dreams Come True, and Sheena Ringo. We also cover a broad variety of genres, including city pop (e.g., Mayonaka no Door by Miki Matsubara, Plastic Love by Mariya Takeuchi) and anime songs (e.g., Blue Bird by Ikimonogakari).

JET – Japanese Exchange and Teaching Program Information Session

11:00am - 12:00pm Panel 207

HIDIVE Presents Farming Life in Another World Season 2 Dub Panel

11:00am - 12:00pm Panel Constitution A

Reap the harvest and enjoy a sneak peak of the English dub of Farming Life in Another World Season 2 with appearances from Blake Shepard and Monica Rial.

Just a Cartoon? What Makes Anime Special

11:00am - 12:00pm Panel Gardner

Most anime fans prickle at the suggestion that their favorite anime are "just cartoons"… but is there really a difference between anime and western cartoons? It turns out there is! In this panel we will explore the history of animation in Japan, from proto-anime propaganda films to modern sakuga spectacles, and identify the unique invitations of the Japanese animation industry that shaped anime as we know it and changed how animators around the world approach their craft.

The Weakest Weeb (Weakest Link Parody Game)

11:00am - 12:00pm Panel 309

Do you like to watch your favorite anime? Read your manga collection often? This panel is for you. Players from the audience will test their knowledge and answer anime trivia based off of their favorite shows and manga. Do you have what it takes? Come aboard and find out?

Jonah Scott Autograph Session

11:00am - 3:00pm Hynes - Ballroom B

Autograph times subject to change.

Aaron Dismuke Autograph Session

11:00am - 2:00pm Hynes - Ballroom B

Autograph times are subject to change.

Sarah Wiedenheft Autograph Session

11:00am - 3:15pm Hynes - Ballroom B

Autograph times are subject to change.

Zach Aguilar Autograph Session

11:00am - 11:50am Hynes - Ballroom B

Autograph times are subject to change.

Daman Mills Autograph Session

11:00am - 2:30pm Hynes - Ballroom B

Autograph times are subject to change.

Ricco Fajardo Autograph Session

11:00am - 3:00pm Hynes - Ballroom B

Autograph times are subject to change.

Joshua Waters Autograph Session

11:00am - 3:00pm Hynes - Ballroom B

Autograph times are subject to change.

Code Geass Cosplay Gathering for 20th Anniversary

11:00am - 12:00pm Hynes - 109

Katekyo Hitman REBORN!

11:00am - 12:00pm Under Escalators near Room 105

Kingdom Hearts Meetup

11:00am - 12:00pm Hynes - 102

Vanitas No Carte | Pandora Hearts Cosplay Meetup

11:00am - 12:00pm Outside Room 313

Mark Whitten Autograph Session

11:00am - 11:40pm Hynes - Ballroom B

Autograph times are subject to change.

AMV Battle

11:30am - 12:30pm Fan Creations 312

Our crack team of experts have all seen countless AMVs. But who has the best taste? They're putting their selections to the test, head-to-head, with you, the audience, as the deciding judges. Whose picks own this place?

My Hero Academia Photoshoot

11:30am - 12:30pm Ballroom A

Looking for fellow cosplay fans from your fandoms? Meet up and take pictures at our cosplay gatherings, hosted by the fans, for the fans.

From Page to Center Stage: Let’s Explore The Apothecary Diaries!

11:30am - 12:30pm Grand Ballroom

Enter Maomao’s enticing world! Whether you’re a devoted fan, or just hearing about The Apothecary Diaries, join esteemed author Hyūganatsu & J-Novel Club– the publisher responsible for the English ebook and print translations of TAD!– for a deep dive into the captivating story that has enthralled audiences from the pages of its light novel, to the hit anime adaptation! Get an inside look at the series’ creation, its journey across mediums, and the key ingredients that have made it such a beloved global phenomenon. Plus… maybe a few surprises!?

All the Mecha You'll Ever Need!

11:30am - 12:30pm Panel 208

This panel is the panel FOR diehard mecha fans BY diehard mecha fans! Spend some time with us talking about giant robots, shouting randomly created attack names, learning about underrated mecha titles, and having a fun time with panelists as well as the audience!

Discover Your Next Obsession: Inside Inklore

12:00pm - 1:00pm Panel 202

Join the team behind Inklore, Penguin Random House’s imprint for manga, manhwa, manhua, webcomics, and graphic novels, for a look at the stories everyone will be talking about next. Get the inside scoop on upcoming releases, see exclusive previews, and discover new soon-to-be favorites before they hit shelves. Plus, attendees will receive an Inklore tote while supplies last!

Changing Silhouettes: Corset, Hoop Skirts, Petticoats and more!

12:00pm - 1:00pm Panel 310

Let’s take a deep dive into the garments that make up the foundation of your ballgown or historical costume. Hoop skirts, petticoats and corsets OH my! There’s so much that goes into the silhouette of a gown and I am here to dish the tea. This panel focuses on undergarments for cosplay but the panelist has knowledge on historical underwear as well and can answer your questions at the end of the panel.

The Hot Seat

12:00pm - 1:00pm Panel Constitution B

Take a panel, now add a little bit of...spice. Spicy food that is! Come see our guests tackle the hot sauce roulette wheel while trying their hands at some fun mini-games, a few challenges and answering our hottest questions. Set your hearts (and possibly digestive tracks) ablaze! Featuring Mark Whitten, Xander Mobus, and Zach Aguilar.

17th Annual East Coast Metal Gear Solid Cosplay Union

12:00pm - 1:00pm Hynes - 102

Gintama

12:00pm - 1:00pm Under Escalators near Room 105

Dragon Ball Z

12:00pm - 1:00pm Outside Room 313

Danganronpa

12:00pm - 1:00pm Hynes - 109

Blake Shepard Autograph Session

12:25pm - 4:30pm Hynes - Ballroom B

Autograph times are subject to change.

One Piece Photoshoot

12:30pm - 1:30pm Ballroom A

Looking for fellow cosplay fans from your fandoms? Meet up and take pictures at our cosplay gatherings, hosted by the fans, for the fans.

J-Fashion Show

12:30pm - 1:30pm Events 304

Come see participants in beautiful designs from Lolita and alternative Japanese fashion walk down the runway, featuring works by local and international designers. Featuring Sweet Mildred, Night Whisper, Enchanted Dream Couture, DYKEMINT, PocketBean, and Citrus Dollette

Let's $ew! Ninja Throwing Stars/Shuriken!

12:30pm - 2:30pm Workshop Fairfax

$15.00 per student.All skill levels welcomeAges 13+, or bring a parent or guardian, please.Choose from 3- or 4-pointed shuriken, and learn to sew AS MANY as you can finish in class! Can't thread a needle? Majik and friends can help!

Weird Biology in Final Fantasy VII (now with more J-Cells!)

12:30pm - 2:00pm Panel 207

New and improved for 2026! Just what did Final Fantasy VII mean by a "memetic legacy?" Could a shape-shifting alien like JENOVA exist? What even is Sephiroth? Reality can be just as strange as fiction! Learn about some real-life parallels to the weird science of Final Fantasy VII. From "giant" viruses that push the definition of "life," to mind-controlling parasites, to organisms that mimic human speech, JENOVA may be closer than you think.

A Thousand Voices, One Kujira

12:30pm - 1:30pm Panel Constitution A

Naruto, Uma Musume, One Piece, Gintama, and more! Kujira has lent her voice to seemingly countless anime for over 30 years. Come ask your questions about her incredible career working in the industry!

Gundam Building - Beginner

12:30pm - 1:30pm Panel Gardner

The Pokemon Trivia Show!

12:30pm - 1:30pm Panel 309

A fun filled action packed gameshow for Pokemon Trainers of all ages hosted by Pokemon Professor Brittany! Join us for, trivia, singalongs, impressions and MORE! Pokemon themed prizes will be awarded throughout the show!

Sakizo Autograph Session

12:30pm - 1:30pm Hynes - Ballroom B

Comedy AMVs

12:45pm - 1:45pm Fan Creations 312

Everyone needs to enjoy a good laugh; from gentle chuckles to full-on belly laughs. The doors for Comedy AMVs are now open, come and get a seat quick - there might not be many left.

Jam Zone: Wiggimus

1:00pm - 2:00pm Panel Republic

VGM and anime covers and original arrangements.

Nurture or Nature? A Look into How Quirks Effect Childhood Development

1:00pm - 2:00pm Panel 208

Have you ever wondered how quirks in My Hero Academia change the way children develop? Join Curling Cosplays, a preschool teacher with a passion for character analysis, for a discussion on how quirks affect children's treatment in society, as well as a breakdown of whether the traits of our favorite UA alumni come from the nature of their quirk or how society has affected them.

HIDIVE Presents Kirio Fanclub North American Premiere (TV14)

1:00pm - 2:00pm Hynes - 210

Two high school girls are the biggest fans of a boy in their class. Join us for this romcom romp of two friends on a journey that seems to head everywhere but love!

Undertale | Deltarune Meetup

1:00pm - 2:00pm Hynes - 109

JoJo's Bizarre Adventure

1:00pm - 2:00pm Outside Room 313

Digimon

1:00pm - 2:00pm Hynes - 102

Tokusatu/Power Rangers

1:00pm - 2:00pm Under Escalators near Room 105

Speed Friending (18+)

1:30pm - 2:30pm Social 110

Final Fantasy Photoshoot

1:30pm - 2:30pm Ballroom A

Looking for fellow cosplay fans from your fandoms? Meet up and take pictures at our cosplay gatherings, hosted by the fans, for the fans.

Cosplay Death Match

1:30pm - 3:30pm Memorial Auditorium

Two characters enter a stage, a victor is chosen via the crowds' roaring approval, and the loser is slaughtered in mock combat while the winner moves on to the next round. In this tournament characters from various anime and manga will fight it out, only one fan favorite will remain!

3D Printing: How to Level Up Your Cosplay

1:30pm - 2:30pm Panel 202

Have you ever met someone with a cool cosplay or prop and found out it was 3D printed? Would you like a quick introduction to the world of 3D printing? Come for a quick recap on what you can expect if you desire to take your cosplaying to the next level. If you can think it, you can make it!

Lights, Camera, Action! How to Create Cosplay Music Videos

1:30pm - 2:30pm Panel 310

A deep dive into all stages of the process of creating a cosplay music video.

Ramen: A History and Deep Dive

1:30pm - 2:30pm Panel Constitution B

Ramen, one of the most iconic dishes from Japan, has a long and fascinating history. From sometimes debated origins, to the time when ramen was illegal, we'll talk about how Japan transformed this delicious dish into the ramen we see today. We'll talk about regional differences, the different noodles and broths, what makes a bowl, how ramen blew up in the country, the creation of instant noodles, all of the different ways you can enjoy ramen today, and we'll even give you our review of some incredible local ramen places for you to check out yourselves!

Coda Autograph Session

1:30pm - 2:30pm Hynes - Ballroom B

Mark Whitten Autograph Session

1:30pm - 3:00pm Hynes - Ballroom B

Autograph times are subject to change.

Monica Rial Autograph Session

1:30pm - 7:00pm Hynes - Ballroom B

Autograph times are subject to change.

Zach Aguilar Autograph Session

1:30pm - 7:00pm Hynes - Ballroom B

Autograph times are subject to change.

Disney Through AMVs

2:00pm - 3:00pm Fan Creations 312

We're back at Anime Boston! Like Anime? Like Disney? Well what if Anime was with Disney? Come and join us in a panel of AMVs through Disney music. Come see Zeros becoming Heroes, Tales as old as time, and a magical bear-cat trying to get two people to kiss?!?

Speed Friending (18+)

2:00pm - 3:00pm Social 111

A Conversation with Yoko Kanno

2:00pm - 3:00pm Grand Ballroom

We sit down with Yoko Kanno to discuss her career, what it has been like creating music for over forty years, and answer some questions from her fans.

Itashas: Building Your Dream Anime Car

2:00pm - 3:00pm Panel Constitution A

Ever seen an anime-wrapped car and wondered, "How do you even start?" This panel breaks down baseline info for creating your own itasha (from concept and character selection to budgeting, printing, and installation process/prep). Whether you’re dreaming of a full wrap or just adding small decals, you’ll learn the practical steps, common mistakes to avoid, and how to make it last!

Gundam Building - Intermediate

2:00pm - 3:00pm Panel Gardner

Life as a 90s Anime Fan

2:00pm - 3:00pm Panel 309

Life as an anime fan is great in 2026, but in the 90s, anime was still an underground fandom. This panel will go over what the average fan had access to in what was a foundational decade that helped anime explode in the year 2000 and beyond.

Lupin The Third: The Woman Called Fujiko Mine (PG-13)

2:00pm - 5:00pm Hynes - 210

Many people are falling prey to a suspicious new religion. Lupin III infiltrates this group, hoping to steal the treasure their leader keeps hidden. There he lays eyes on the beautiful, bewitching woman who has the leader enthralled. This is the story of how fashionable female thief Fujiko Mine first met Lupin III, the greatest thief of his generation.

Greg Ayres Autograph Session

2:00pm - 3:00pm Hynes - Ballroom B

Autograph times are subject to change.

Blue Lock

2:00pm - 3:00pm Hynes - 102

IDOLiSH7

2:00pm - 3:00pm Outside Room 313

Umamusume: Pretty Derby

2:00pm - 3:00pm Under Escalators near Room 105

Black / Blerd Cosplayer Meetup

2:00pm - 3:00pm Hynes - 109

Riot Games Photoshoot

2:30pm - 3:30pm Ballroom A

Looking for fellow cosplay fans from your fandoms? Meet up and take pictures at our cosplay gatherings, hosted by the fans, for the fans.

hololive Meet SUPER KARAOKE PARTY

2:30pm - 4:30pm Ballroom C

Get ready to sing along with Ninomae Ina’nis, IRyS, and Vestia Zeta in this live karaoke event!

Apothecary Diaries and The Utilization of Chinese Fashion in Japanese

2:30pm - 3:30pm Panel 208

This panel will provide a brief overview for the Apothecary Diaries for attendees who may not know of the series, followed by a breakdown of character fashions and how they relate to historical attire reflective of the time period. Additionally, we'll discus fashions of each period in relation to how they reflected the emperor’s tastes, such as one emperor preferring tall girls wearing dresses made with a higher waist. How accurate are these character portrayals in relation to their time period, and how can garments be improved?

Xander Mobus Autograph Session

2:40pm - 5:30pm Hynes - Ballroom B

Autograph times are subject to change.

Speed Friending (18+)

3:00pm - 4:00pm Social 110

Help Aaron Dismuke Playtest His Board Game!

3:00pm - 4:00pm Workshop Fairfax

UNDERMINERS is a fantasy colony builder game made with over 50 dice rolled into a random environment every game. 2 player game! 30 minute runtime. Help Aaron figure out how to make its rulebook!

25 Years of AnimeMusicVideos.org: A History

3:00pm - 4:00pm Panel 310

Ever wonder how AnimeMusicVideos.org came about or what it’s like maintaining a community site of that magnitude? The site creator, Phade, gives the history of the Org, shows off cool behind-the-scenes things, and takes audience questions.

HIDIVE Presents Farming Life in Another World Season 2 North American Premiere with Q&A

3:00pm - 4:00pm Panel Constitution B

Reap the harvest and enjoy the premiere of Farming Life in Another World Season 2 with an appearance from Atsushi Abe, the voice of Hiraku, and producer, Hiromi Sueta!

Manga Mavericks Books Industry Panel

3:00pm - 4:00pm Panel 202

Join the team behind Manga Mavericks Books (store.mangamavericks.com) and find out how a company that started as a manga podcast has transformed itself into one of the newest indie manga publishers! Learn more about our current and upcoming releases, as well as the library of Yuri manga available from our partners Red String Translations and Mutsumi Natsuo. We’ll have new announcements, prizes, surprises, and more!

Sailor Moon

3:00pm - 4:00pm Hynes - 109

Love and Deepspace

3:00pm - 4:00pm Hynes - 102

SEGA Meetup

3:00pm - 4:00pm Under Escalators near Room 105

Anime According to AMVs

3:15pm - 4:15pm Fan Creations 312

Anime Music Videos do a great job at telling stories and condensing plot points into short, bite-sized packages... sometimes. Join us for an open participation game show to see what you can learn from an AMV!

Speed Friending (18+)

3:30pm - 4:30pm Social 111

The Price is Right: Anime and Games Edition

3:30pm - 4:30pm Events 304

Guess how much these items cost in "The Price is Right!" style. Items will range from real world items and video game items.

Maximum Fail: A D&D-sekai

3:30pm - 5:00pm Grand Ballroom

Stop me if you’ve heard this one: a bard, a rogue, and a barbarian walk into a bar... It’s a Dungeons & Dragons one-shot featuring some of your favorite voice actors playing D&D _as_ the characters they've voiced. Will it work? It did for C****** R***! Let’s roll a d20 and find out! (Matt, we checked with our lawyers and we can't be sued). Featuring: Jonah Scott, Laura Stahl, Mark Whitten, Ricco Farajado

How to Take Your Own Cosplay Photos

3:30pm - 4:30pm Panel Republic

Let Yaya Han show you the ropes of setting up high quality photoshoots on your own, in your home, with affordable equipment! We'll discuss everything from creating a simple neutral background to building a full immersive photo set, how to set up lighting and find the light on location, and how to frame and pose like a pro! Every cosplayer should feel empowered to take their own photos!

Lolita Fashion 101

3:30pm - 4:30pm Panel 207

Learn about lolita fashion, the frilly Japanese street fashion! This panel covers the basics of a lolita coordinate, what different styles look like, and how to get started in the fashion. This panel also features a fashion walk, showing off the different lolita styles.

Let's Play Beholder with Sarah Wiedenheft

3:30pm - 4:30pm Panel Constitution A

Welcome to a grim dystopian future. We are the State-installed manager of an apartment building. Our daily routine involves fixing apartments for tenants. However, our true mission is…SPYING ON OUR RENTERS! We must BUG their apartments, SEARCH their belongings, and PROFILE them. We must also REPORT anyone violating laws. Do we cover up our tenants? Or do we stay loyal to the regime? The choice is ours.

Mada Mada Dane! 70+ Years of Sports Anime & Manga

3:30pm - 4:30pm Panel Gardner

Since Igaguri-kun premiered in 1952, manga and anime about sports have become a fixture in Japanese media. Today, there are dozens of options available for nearly every type of sport and for every type of fan. But where do you begin? This panel surveys the trajectory of sports manga and anime in Japan from a variety of titles, trends, and tropes. Featuring well-known classics and under-the-radar gems, this panel is suitable for all sports fans, rookies and pros alike. Panelists will also examine the parallel rise of spo-kon fandoms, tracing the impact of fanfiction writers, doujinshi artists, and musicals/stage plays on the enduring popularity and relevance of sports anime and manga in Japan and internationally. Titles discussed include Attack No. 1 (1968), Ashita no Joe (1968), Aim for the Ace (1973), Ring ni Kakero (1977), Captain Tsubasa (1981), Touch (1981) Hajime no Ippo (1989), Slam Dunk (1990), Prince of Tennis (1999), Eyeshield 21 (2003), Chihayafuru (2007), Haikyuu!! (2012), Free! (2013), Blue Lock (2018), Stars Align (2019), Sk8 the Infinity (2021), Birdie Wing: Golf Girls' Story (2022), Overtake! (2023), and many more! Grab your gear and join us!

Otaku University: More Anime to Learn From

3:30pm - 4:30pm Panel 309

Who says anime can't be educational? Welcome to Otaku University, where we've put together the perfect anime syllabus for all your learning needs! Whether it's Language, History, Science, Music, Art, or even Sports, there's an anime out there to learn from! (Maybe you'll get dodge Math for once...) Join us as we walk through some of the best anime and manga that dedicate themselves to accuracy and ensuring that you walk out smarter than you came in!

Kujira Autograph Session

3:30pm - 4:30pm Hynes - Ballroom B

Daman Mills Autograph Session

3:30pm - 7:00pm Hynes - Ballroom B

Autograph times are subject to change.

Resident Evil Photoshoot

3:30pm - 4:30pm Outside Room 313

K-Pop Random Dance Game

4:00pm - 5:00pm Ballroom A

Jump on in and dance alongside other K-Pop fans in a non-stop K-Pop Random Dance game! From old to new songs, the choruses of popular K-Pop songs will play in which fans gather to dance along to the original choreography.

Anime cels and Production Art

4:00pm - 5:00pm Panel 208

This panel will feature in-person art from the making of anime throughout the years and across the production process, from concept to the painted plastic cels and backgrounds that go under the camera. Come learn about that process and how to own some art of your own.

When They Cry (Ryukishi07) Meetup

4:00pm - 5:00pm Under Escalators near Room 105

Demon Slayer Photoshoot

4:00pm - 5:00pm Hynes - 109

TOONAMI Afternoon

4:30pm - 5:30pm Fan Creations 312

School is out and anime is in! Come join us for a block of AMVs with a Toonami-inspired twist!

Magical Girl Renaissance

4:30pm - 5:30pm Panel 202

The magical girl genre, while a staple in anime culture, as been in a bit of lull for the past few years. Especially when you compare it to the late 90's/ early 00's, with shows like Sailor Moon, Cardcaptor Sakura, Winx Club, and many more establishing the iconic troupes that define the genre. Since the rise of the popular series Madoka Magica, a series that broke down the magical girl clichés, gave way to a new era in the genre that focused more on pushing the envelope rather than taking the genre to the next level. Now it seems the magical girl genre has found a new home in the indie scene. Learn about 5 amazing indie projects, featuring artists like Kiana Khansmith, MeadowDough on tumblr, and ToonZee Animation. The goal is to introduce the audience to these projects to both support and build hype for the new era of magical girl stories.

This or Not This

4:30pm - 5:30pm Panel 310

Do you think you know the difference between... Pokémon and medication? How well can tell the difference between Kirby titles and Yuri titles? Did you know a lot of anime quotes sound scarily similar to quotes from real-life politicians? In this brand new trivia game show, we challenge contestants to three games of rapid-fire categorization, to put their knowledge of video games, manga, and the real world to the test and hopefully win some prizes! Join us for an exciting hour of asking... is it This or Not This?

25 Years Behind the Mic with Greg Ayres

4:30pm - 5:30pm Panel Constitution B

"25 Years Behind the Mic with Greg Ayres" After spending over two decades working in an industry that he used to be a fan of, Greg Ayres has been able to watch some amazing changes take place. If there is anything he loves more than the job itself, it’s the ability to share that love with other anime fans. You can be sure he’ll be talking about newer projects like Saiyuki Reload Zeroin, Dark Gathering, Haikyu, Alice in Borderland, as well as any of your older favorite titles as well.

Aaron Dismuke Autograph Session

4:30pm - 7:00pm Hynes - Ballroom B

Autograph times are subject to change.

Jujutsu Kaisen Cosplay Meetup and Photoshoot

4:30pm - 5:30pm Hynes - 102

Sarah Wiedenheft Autograph Session

4:40pm - 7:00pm Hynes - Ballroom B

Autograph times are subject to change.

Masquerade

5:00pm - 8:00pm Memorial Auditorium

The Masquerade brings together our Craftsmanship and Performance cosplay contests. Performance skit entrants compete, while the Craftsmanship entrants showcase their work. Come see cosplay, Anime Music Video Contest winners, and more at the biggest event on Saturday night!

Sakizo's Romantic Worldview

5:00pm - 6:00pm Panel Republic

Sakizo’s artistry is a showcase of romantic imagery. We’ll talk about how she forged her style and created a gorgeous portfolio inspired by a unique mix of sources including everything from classic fashion to sweet confections.

Blink Twice: Intro to Electronics & Breadboarding for Cosplay

5:00pm - 6:30pm Workshop Fairfax

Anime Cookbooks: An Acquired Taste

5:00pm - 6:00pm Panel 207

The world of anime cookbooks is equal parts sweet and salty, with some recipes and IPs making more sense than others. In this panel, I'll tell you all about the best, the worst, most creative, and most puzzling things to be found in officially licensed anime cookbooks. And yes, there will be pictures.

Working in the Music Department in The Anime Industry

5:00pm - 6:00pm Panel Constitution A

The two most featured Hip Hop artists in all of anime, Paranom and Aztech from Hybrid Thoughts. The duo has handled the Hip Hop on soundtracks for major anime such as Jujutsu Kaisen, Dr. Stone, Beastars, My Hero Academia Vigilantes, Ninja Kamui, Sakugan, Kekkai Sensen and more! Learn what it's like to work in the music department in the anime industry!

The Spotlight Panel

5:00pm - 6:00pm Panel Gardner

It's the official Anime Boston Spotlight panel! Come by for behind the scenes of this year's Spotlight! And you'll get exclusive items too!

Glitz, Glamor, and Women in Suits: All About The Takarazuka

5:00pm - 6:00pm Panel 309

Do you like theater? How about women in suits? If the answer to both of those questions is "yes", the Takarazuka Revue may be for you! Join us to learn about the surprisingly long history of Japan’s premier all-female theater group, its influence on Japanese pop culture, and the special place it holds in Japanese queer culture. Featuring clips from their performances of Casino Royale, Rose of Versailles, and Ace Attorney!

s-CRY-ed (PG-13)

5:00pm - 8:00pm Hynes - 210

A strange environmental phenomenon 22 years ago in the Kanazawa prefecture caused the land to split and protrude upwards reaching unprecedented heights, creating the secluded area known as The Lost Ground. Kazuma is a young mercenary who lives in the Lost Ground, looking for any work he can find to sustain his livelihood within the harsh environment. He is one of the few people that are gifted with the Alter ability, which allows him to plaster his right arm and torso with a metallic alloy. When this mercenary encounters HOLY, an order whose purpose is to suppress and capture what they call Native Alter Users, and one of the elite members of HOLY, Ryuho, an epic rivalry begins.

Limbus Company || Project Moon Meetup

5:00pm - 6:00pm Hynes - 109

Zenless Zone Zero

5:00pm - 6:00pm Outside Room 313

Touhou Project

5:00pm - 6:00pm Under Escalators near Room 105

I'm not OLD, But My Knees ARE Creaking (2016)

5:30pm - 6:30pm Fan Creations 312

A trip through time - Come see some classic AMVs from Anime Boston's past AMV Contests! This time we're setting our sights on the year 2016.

Let's Dance: K-Pop!

5:30pm - 6:30pm Ballroom A

Join us to participate in a variety of different K-Pop dance games. There’s even games for fans that don’t know the dances! You won’t need any "permission to dance" at this panel, because everyone can play!

Anime Boston 2026 Karaoke Contest

5:30pm - 7:30pm Events 304

The karaoke contest is a live event where twelve singers will compete and one will be victorious. All of the participates have went through an a strict prescreening and audience members will only vote once for our top contender. Due to demand we've moved to an even bigger room. So bring your friends it will be a blast!

Unseen Side of Anime Boston

5:30pm - 6:30pm Panel 208

"Pay no attention to the team behind the curtain". Have you ever wondered how we build Anime Boston? Join us on a behind the scenes showcase, and be prepared with questions!

Jonah Scott Autograph Session

5:30pm - 7:00pm Hynes - Ballroom B

Autograph times subject to change.

Ricco Fajardo Autograph Session

5:30pm - 7:00pm Hynes - Ballroom B

Autograph times are subject to change.

Joshua Waters Autograph Session

5:30pm - 7:00pm Hynes - Ballroom B

Autograph times are subject to change.

Mark Whitten Autograph Session

5:30pm - 7:00pm Hynes - Ballroom B

Autograph times are subject to change.

Lolita Fashion Meetup

5:30pm - 7:30pm Hynes - Coffee House

Come meet other EGL enthusiasts at Anime Boston's first lolita fashion meetup and show off your coordinate. The theme will be Spring/Easter cords.There will be a photo spot, a raffle, and refreshments available for purchase.A valid Saturday or Weekend badge for Anime Boston 2026 is required to attend this event.

Sociological Perspectives on Japanese Media

6:00pm - 7:00pm Panel 202

What does the popularity of Japanese media say about our global society and its future cultural trends? Join us for an overview of literature from prominent cultural commentators, academics, and sociologists like Hiroki Azuma, Tamaki Saitō, and a variety of others, both Japanese and western. By the end of the panel you’ll have both a list of books and general analytical perspectives that can help to enrich your analyses of your favorite media!

There’s a Live Action Version?! An Intro to Anime Musicals

6:00pm - 7:00pm Panel 310

Have you ever heard rumblings that your favorite anime series was adapted into a stage musical, but you didn't know where to learn more? Are you curious what it might look like if Sasuke Uchiha expressed his childhood trauma via aerial silks? Don't you want to see your favorite horse girls tap-dancing their way to the finish line? Unlock these secrets and more with an introduction to the world of anime musicals!

Battle Royales, Killing Games, and Survival of the Fittest: The Histor

6:00pm - 7:00pm Panel Constitution B

With the popularity of death game media even in Western media, such as The Hunger Games, Japanese Death Games started as far back as the popular cult classic Battle Royale. A lot of anime, manga, TV shows, movies, video games, and even tokusatsu draw inspiration from this genre, acting as a social experiment to convey the depths of human morality and desperation. Even survival music projects such as Alien Stage and Milgram are part of the genre. Death games all follow different rules depending on the media, and some may be more dressed up than others. Killing games didn’t start with the Dangan Ronpa series alone. With the excitement and hype over popular games such as the Dangan Rompa 2x2 remake coming out, let’s talk about what really makes these death games tick and how these narratives can pan out. All death game enjoyers welcome, please beware of spoilers!

Bungo Stray Dogs

6:00pm - 7:00pm Hynes - 102

WIND BREAKER Photoshoot

6:00pm - 7:00pm Outside Room 313

Wuthering Waves | Punishing Gray Raven

6:00pm - 7:00pm Hynes - 109

The Hundred Line: Last Defense Academy

6:00pm - 7:00pm Under Escalators near Room 105

And Now For Something Completely Different...

6:30pm - 7:00pm Fan Creations 312

Fan music video editors have been working with animation beyond Japan for a long time. This is a showcase of some of the best videos we've found that use animation from the rest of the world.

Coda in Concert! Featuring: Spirit Bomb

6:30pm - 8:30pm Grand Ballroom

Japanese musician Coda takes center stage with special opening performance by Spirit Bomb!

Human Anatomy: Fact vs Fiction

6:30pm - 7:30pm Panel 207

An analysis of the relationship between realistic bodies and stylized anime proportions. An artist's insight on the interesting features you see in different anime, from head to toe.

Japanese Dolls: Traditional and Contemporary

6:30pm - 7:30pm Panel Gardner

Come along for a trip though time, as we look from Dogū to Dollfies. Learn about the culture and history of dolls in Japan. Hosted by the Ningyo BINGO podcast.

The "G" in LGBT Stands for Genshin: Queer Coding in Genshin and HSR

6:30pm - 7:30pm Panel 309

Are you gay? Do you project really hard onto characters in Genshin Impact and Honkai Star Rail? Want some queer theory and media analysis to back up your argument that your favorite ship is basically canon? Or do you just want to see three queer people go all out on defending their queer headcanons? Then come to this panel! We’ll be looking at how MiHoyo has (in our opinion) queer coded many of their characters, using known themes and cultural symbols to imply homosexual, gender nonconforming, and transgender experiences in their stories.

Psychoanalysis, but in Anime

6:30pm - 7:30pm Panel Constitution A

Subjectivity operates throughout anime: in the characters’ actions, in the artists’ creative processes, and in the audiences who consume the medium. In this panel, we will explore several well-known titles through the lens of psychoanalysis, offering you a fresh perspective on anime you may not have considered in this way before.

Studio Closure

7:00pm - 8:00pm Fan Creations 312

It was a sad time for anime when Studio Gainax announced it was shutting down. Between its founding in 1984 (were you even born yet?) and its closure in 2025, they created some amazing anime. Come on down to watch some of their greatest hits and maybe even make a friend or two.

Akane-banashi Special Screening with Katsura Sunshine presented by TV Asahi

7:00pm - 9:00pm Ballroom C

Don't miss this special screening of Akane-banashi, based on the manga currently serialized in Weekly Shonen Jump! The event will feature Eps1 and a live Rakugo performance by Master Katsura Sunshine with a talk about his insights into the anime.

HIDIVE Presents Petals of Reincarnation World Premiere with Q&A (18+)

7:00pm - 8:30pm Panel Republic

Adult - (V) Join us for the supernatural battle anime Petals of Reincarnation ahead of its April streaming launch! Be among the first to watch episodes 1 and 2, plus catch a behind-the-scenes talk with special guests Wakana Maruoka (as Haito Luo Buffett) and producer Takanori Matsuoka.

Let's $ew! Fat Rattling Frogs!

7:00pm - 9:00pm Workshop Fairfax

$15 per studentBeginner skill level.13+ or bring a parent or guardian, please!Pocket-sized froggy familiars and a simple 3-part pattern. Many colors to choose from. Each frog may have a noise-making rattler installed, for extra fun!

Anime History for Total Sickos

7:00pm - 8:00pm Panel 208

A historical overview of the North American anime fandom and industry, told with a sardonic edge. This panel covers the greater history of North American fandom, while taking time to highlight important events that have helped to create the landscape that exists today. Events like the rise of Star Blazers, Sailor Moon, Toonami, and early online fandom, are presented alongside events like the industry crash and revival in the 2000s, the rise of streaming anime, and Justin Sevakis’ purchase of AnimEigo.

Arknights

7:00pm - 8:00pm Outside Room 313

Fire Emblem Photoshoot and Meetup

7:00pm - 8:00pm Hynes - 102

Team Fortress 2

7:00pm - 8:00pm Under Escalators near Room 105

Hololive Cosplay Photoshoot

7:00pm - 8:00pm Hynes - 109

Insert Coin! Exploring the Wild World of Japanese Arcades

7:30pm - 8:30pm Hynes - 202

Step into the flashing lights and echoing sounds of Japan’s iconic arcades in this panel exploring the past, present, and future of the industry. We’ll begin with a look at the latest statistics on how Japanese arcades are performing, followed by an overview of emerging trends shaping the scene. From metal games and purikura photo booths to crane games, rhythm games, fighting titles, simulators, card battlers, and beyond, we’ll break down the variety of experiences that keep players coming back.

Speed Friending (18+)

7:30pm - 8:30pm Social 110

Swap Meet

7:30pm - 9:30pm Ballroom A

From Shojo to Josei

7:30pm - 8:30pm Panel 310

If you are a manga fan, chances are you are familiar with Shojo, series aimed at girls, and you may even be aware of Josei, series aimed at women. We will look at the transitional period when shojo manga began to mature to reflect older readers’ life experiences and the early period of Josei.

Japanese Body Horror Beyond Junji Ito

7:30pm - 8:30pm Panel Constitution B

So you're all caught up on Junji Ito but you still have a taste for body horror? Come join this panel for an exploration in other depictions of body horror in Japanese media across anime, manga, and live action.

Adrenaline Beat

8:00pm - 9:00pm Fan Creations 312

Join us for some of the best dance and high-energy AMVs we could get our hands on. Bring a waterbottle, dance in your seat, and bring your lightsticks. Remember to always keep it PLUR.

Speed Friending (18+)

8:00pm - 9:00pm Social 111

The Uncensored History of Yaoi and Yuri (18+)

8:00pm - 9:00pm Panel 207

Adult - (S) Everyone loves yaoi and yuri, right? We’re here to give you the spiciest history lesson you’ve ever had! Join us to talk about the history of gay art in Japan, the doujinshi scene of the 80s and 90s, and how all of this influenced the works you know and love today.

Mature Webtoons for the Female Gaze (18+)

8:00pm - 9:00pm Panel Constitution A

Adult - (L)(S)(V) The best and the worst of mature webtoons written for female audiences. Duke of the north? Yes. Filthy rich CEO? Yeah. Tyrant emperor who's only nice to the FL? Yep. Oh what about a tsundere elf? Childhood best friend? Steel-daced priest? Black ops killer? Sure we got those too. They may not all be good, but they'll at least be tasty.

A Comprehensive History of Girls-With-Guns Anime

8:00pm - 9:30pm Panel Gardner

Adult - (S)(V) Since its first emergence forty years ago, the "girls-with-guns" subgenre of action anime has produced a near-continuous stream of diverse and innovative works with strong female protagonists. Join the (self-proclaimed) world's foremost expert on the genre on a deep dive into its history, weaving together mainstream genre staples with plenty of lesser known anime along the way. Whether you're a fan of more well-known anime such as Lycoris Recoil or Black Lagoon interested in the broader genre, someone already familiar with classics like Gunsmith Cats or Noir looking to find what to watch next, or even a newcomer to girls-wth-guns anime entirely, this panel will serve as a comprehensive guide to one of anime's most fascinating and important subgenres.

I'm Living With an Otaku NEET Kunoichi!? (PG-13)

8:00pm - 10:00pm Hynes - 210

Tsukasa Atsumi is a salaryman who leads an ordinary, solitary life. On his way back from work one evening, he is saved from a demon attack by a mysterious woman in a ninja outfit. Introducing herself as Shizuri Ideura, she claims that demons target people like Tsukasa, who have Samurai Blood in their veins, and that her kind have been protecting them from the shadows. Told by Shizuri that the attacks are going to become more frequent, Tsukasa makes a deal to provide her with housing in exchange for his safety. To his surprise, he quickly finds out that Shizuri is a shut-in who loves to play video games whenever she is not busy with her ninja duties. As the two spend more time together, Tsukasa grows to appreciate Shizuri's company—and his feelings just might be mutual.

Type-Moon | Fate Cosplay Gathering/Meet Up and Photoshoot

8:00pm - 9:00pm Outside Room 313

Ball-Jointed Doll (BJD/MJD) Meet Up

8:00pm - 9:00pm Hynes - 102

Maid Café Live Show

8:30pm - 9:30pm Events 304

Missed the Maid Café? Want to see our maids and butlers perform and play games with them? Well, you’re in luck! Come to the Maid Café Live Show, get ready to have some fun, and give us your best "Moe, moe, kyun!"

Lolita fashion in the Digital Age: A Modern History

8:30pm - 9:30pm Panel 208

Join us as we discuss the history and trends of lolita fashion—from underground roots to the ever evolving, globally-recognized style it is today!

LGBT+U

9:00pm - 10:00pm Fan Creations 312

LGBT videos of all walks of life, made by editors of all walks of life! We have so many great LGBT videos, we can't even think straight, like hot spaghetti!

Speed Friending (18+)

9:00pm - 10:00pm Social 110

Bad Anime, Bad!!

9:00pm - 11:00pm Memorial Auditorium

Twenty-six years and still running?! Will this "merry-go-round broke down" ever stop?!! The pain…the misery…the inappropriate eye-gleams…the wandering perspectives…all wrapped up in a barbed-wire bow and sealed with a poisonous kiss! If you fancy yourself an intrepid explorer of the animation industry's missteps and misadventures, this presentation will surely test your mettle!

.hack//Panel

9:00pm - 10:00pm Panel 202

After a long dormancy, the multimedia juggernaut from the 2000s is back! Whether you're a seasoned fan seeking nostalgia, or a new fan curious about which entry you should go to next, this panel is going to cover as many things .hack as we can in an hour.

Daburu Zero Sebun: James Bond,Spy Fiction and Japan!

9:00pm - 10:00pm Panel 310

"The name is Bond, James Bond." The 1953 introduction of Ian Fleming's super spy and his 1962 movie debut captured the imagination of the world. And Japan was receptive to the cool spy. We will discuss the various homages and knock offs in manga and anime, from Lupin III to Spy X Family.

BL Book Club (18+)

9:00pm - 10:30pm Panel Constitution B

Adult - (L)(S) Running out of things to read on your spicy BL reading list? Look no further! In this panel we will discuss and recommend titles for all your BL needs!

Danmei Meetup/Photoshoot

9:00pm - 10:00pm Hynes - 102

Speed Friending (18+)

9:30pm - 10:30pm Social 111

MORE Japanese Commercials to Make You Laugh, Cry, and Think

9:30pm - 10:30pm Ballroom C

An (almost) all-new set of commercials for 2026! It's not an anime convention without one of these "weird and funny" Japanese commercial panels, and you're sure to see some old favorites in this one, but have you seen a JP CM that makes you think about social issues in Japan? We'll provide some background of why these commercials are subversive or show a side of Japan you usually don't see.

Tentacle Fanfic Theater (18+)

9:30pm - 11:30pm Panel Republic

Adult - (L)(S) They’re back—much to everyone’s delight(???)! It’s time for a bedtime story and Scarlett Mafia has only the BEST cursed fanfiction for you.

Sketchbook Swap

9:30pm - 11:00pm Workshop Fairfax

There is a Dunkin Donuts in Silent Hill and I'll Prove It (18+)

9:30pm - 10:30pm Panel 207

Adult - (L) In our restless dreams, we see that Dunkalatte. The ugly stepsister to the panel "Pyramid Head Has a Point," we finally bring to Anime Boston the fruit of years of research telling you how, why, and where there is a Dunkin Donuts in Silent Hill. Join us as for the market research we endured to make this point and James Sunderland's absolutely dire coffee order! Not sponsored by Dunkin, yet.

DEG 101: Introduction to Hentai (18+)

9:30pm - 11:30pm Panel Constitution A

Adult - (L)(S)(V) An introductory course to all things hentai. Learn about the history, different genres, forms of media of hentai, and different hentai artists.

Shizun’s Judgment Hour: a Danmei Game Show

9:30pm - 10:30pm Panel 309

Calling all danmei fans! Are you ready to be judged for you lack of knowledge? How much do you know about Chinese Boys Love? Prove you skills and don’t worry danmei beginners will get head pats.

Big Fat Quiz Show of Cosplay

10:00pm - 11:00pm Events 304

Big Fat Quiz Show pits three teams of cosplayers against one another to guess the answers to trivia questions covering everything from the past year in anime to classic moments of the past — all while staying in character. Join us for big trivia and bigger laughs at this new After Dark event!

Hentai AMV Extravaganza! (18+)

10:00pm - 12:00am Grand Ballroom

Adult - (L)(S) Come one, come all, and welcome back to the craziest show at AB. Let us entertain your weird and wild side with Anime Music Videos of a rather, ahem, adult nature, along with audience games, Hentai dubbing, and some truly terrible, terrible things.

Yaoi Madlibs (18+)

10:00pm - 11:30pm Panel 208

Adult - (L)(S) Do you like yaoi? Do you hate yaoi? Even if you don't know what it means, this is the panel for you! It's the classic fill-in-the-blank party game with a Boy's Love twist. Join this 18+ panel for one ____ of a time, and help us fill in all the rest.

Saturday Evening Fan Parodies (18+)

10:15pm - 11:45pm Fan Creations 312

Adult - (L) Come and join us for another year of Fan Parodies.

Golden Boy (18+)

10:15pm - 12:00am Hynes - 210

Kintarou Ooe is a specialist in part-time work, riding all over the highways and byways of Japan on his trusty steed, the Mikazuki 5, and finding employment wherever he can. His adventures bring him knowledge and experience that can't be taught in a classroom, from political corruption to the delicacy of a young woman's heart. With nothing but the open road before him—not to mention the many beautiful women along the way—Kintarou pursues his spirit of education while attempting to hold down his various odd jobs, however undignified they may be. As he learns from each task he takes on, who knows what could happen? He might even be able to save the world one day. One thing is for sure—this will all be very educational!

Tales of Tales!

10:30pm - 11:30pm Panel 202

December 2025 marked the 30th anniversary of the Tales of series! This panel explores a history of the series and encourages participation through trivia and games! Did you catch last year's remasters for Tales of Graces or Tales of Xillia? Or the most recent remaster of Tales of Berseria? Whether you're a veteran or a newcomer, we've got you covered from A(rise) to Z(estiria).

CozyCore: Anime for the Soul

10:30pm - 11:30pm Panel 310

Nothing's better than relaxing with a mug of hot tea and a cozy anime at the end of a long day. Something to make you forget about the world and make you feel all warm inside. But cozy anime come in all shapes and sizes! If you've been looking for a new show to watch just before bed, then look no further! With over 40 cozy anime to share, you're bound to find something new!

Slumber Party

11:00pm - 12:30am Ballroom A

Greg Ayres – Raw & Uncensored (18+)

11:00pm - 12:00am Ballroom C

Adult - (L) Join us for a rare and raw panel with Greg Ayres. Come hear tales of con horror from years past, along with some uncensored re-tellings of many stories that have had to be "softened" for a daytime audience. Please bring your ID, a sense of humor for this "no-holds barred" panel.

Vanquish the Night: Castlevania as Gothic Literature

11:00pm - 12:00am Panel 207

Castlevania is steeped in the imagery and traditions of gothic literature classics. Vampires, monsters, cathedrals, hauntings—and of course, beautiful, tortured heroes. Come learn about where the genre influenced the games in ways you may not expect, and prepare for the new game with a deeper understanding of a rich literary history.

Anime Is Hardcore?

11:00pm - 12:00am Panel Gardner

Have you ever done a spin kick in a mosh pit? Or practiced your two-step in your bedroom? Join me as I break down shows for people who love breakdowns. Find out about punk and metal subcultures in Japan and how those are displayed in various series.

RAWR!!! Go Go Godzilla...'s History with Pacific Asia Relations???

11:00pm - 12:00am Panel 309

We all love our kaiju and monster fights, but have you ever wondered how they might affect the way countries react to others? In this panel, we will discuss Godzilla and Japan post-WW2 and how this hit film series has drastically changed how Japan interacts with its neighboring countries and the rest of the world! Come join us and see how Godzilla affects everything from people's perspective to how the government reacts to law creation!

ReiNcarnation - The NieR Game You Never Got to Play

11:00pm - 12:00am Panel Constitution B

You've played NieR: Automata, you've played NieR: Replicant, but did you know about the third NieR? Did you also know that you'll never be able to play it, since Yoko Taro took it fully offline a couple years ago? Come see what you missed, and explore NieR: Reincarnation with us!

AMV Free Play (18+)

11:45pm - 12:30am Fan Creations 312

Adult - (L)(S)(V) Hey, it's late, and you got nothing better to do, do you? Come in and watch some of AMVs till we all fall asleep.

Sunday, April 05, 2026

80 events

Cosplay Shenanigans (18+)

12:00am - 1:30am Events 304

Adult - (L)(S) Shenanigans features raunchy improv games such as From a Hat or Hentai Dubbing. Participants are selected from the audience. The winners get to compete for the honor of being the grand … rooster. Laughs guaranteed.

Danmei, Censorship, and More! (18+)

12:00am - 1:00am Panel 310

Adult - (L)(S) Censorship in media is frustrating! We get it! Here we discuss Danmei, censorship and how its done, and what authors have done as workarounds, where their 'censored' work has been published, and what else they have done as an alternative!

Hajime no Ippo (PG-13)

8:00am - 10:30am Hynes - 210

In his father's absence, teenager Ippo Makunouchi works hard to help his mother run her fishing boat rental business. Ippo's timid nature, his lack of sleep, and the sea smell make him an easy target for relentless bullies who leave him bruised and beaten on a daily basis. Mamoru Takamura, an up-and-coming boxer, rescues Ippo from a violent after-school incident and takes him back to the Kamogawa Boxing Gym for recovery. Takamura and his fellow boxers, Masaru Aoki and Tatsuya Kimura, are stunned by Ippo's powerful punches—a result of strong muscles developed through years serving his physically taxing family business. Following brief training under Takamura, Ippo impresses the other boxers in a practice match against prodigy Ichirou Miyata. He gains a rival in Miyata and a coach in Genji Kamogawa, the gym owner and a former boxer himself. As Ippo takes the first steps in his official boxing career, he faces off against a series of challenging opponents, each more powerful than the last. Victory, loss, and a cycle of dedicated training await Ippo on his journey to achieve greatness. With his tough body and unstoppable fighting spirit, the kind young man seeks to take on the world.

AMV Contest Overflow

9:00am - 3:00pm Fan Creations 312

Every year, the AMV Contest receives a huge number of entries, but only 5 videos make the finals in each category. This means that a ton of excellent videos don't. Come check out all of the entries that were submitted here!

Embellishing Your Cosplay

9:00am - 10:00am Panel 310

Are you wanting to add more glimmer or pizzazz to your cosplay. In this panel we will explore different techniques and methods to truly make your cosplay stand out. This includes exploring embroidery, appliques, bead work, vinyl, painting, foam work, and even 3D printing.

Beyond Initial D: The Wider World of Racing Anime

9:00am - 10:00am Panel 208

Rev up your passion for racing with us! While Initial D and MF Ghost have set the benchmark for automotive adrenaline on screen, this panel dives into the hidden corners of racing anime that go beyond the asphalt. From the neon‑lit drift battles to cyber‑punk style circuits and beyond, we’ll spotlight series that capture speed with a unique artistic flair and storytelling depth you won’t find elsewhere. Get ready for a grand tour through genres, eras, and styles.

The International Otaku Expo Association (IOEA) and the Future of Otaku Culture

9:00am - 10:00am Panel 202

Did you know Anime Boston is an event Member of an international otaku community? Celebrating 10 years of connecting otaku communities across the globe, this session explores what the IOEA is. From its beginnings as a bridge between events worldwide, the IOEA has spent the last decade helping fans connect, grow and share their passion across borders. We’ll look back at the past 10 years — and ahead to a new era of creative, fan-driven culture and international collaboration.

Evangelion Hell

9:00am - 10:00am Panel Constitution B

You’ve seen the series and the movies, but have you seen the shaving cream commercials? Longtime anime fan panelist Jennifer Teig von Hoffman presents a carefully curated compilation of video tidbits related to Neon Genesis Evangelion, for your information and amusement.

Pokemon trainer academy

9:00am - 10:30am Panel 207

Think you have what it takes to be a Pokemon master? Come compete in a family friendly, jeopardy style game show to meet fellow Pokemon fans, have some fun and win customized prizes! All ages welcome, feel free to participate or just watch!

Charity Auction

9:30am - 12:30pm Panel Republic

Anime Boston is proud to hold our annual charity auction during Anime Boston 2026. We offer many one of a kind signed items, as well as unique anime related treasures and more. Be sure to check out our twitter page https://twitter.com/animecharity as well as our table in the Dealers Room to see all auction items in advance! All proceeds from our auction, as well as our raffles that take place over the weekend from our table go towards the National MS Society, our chosen charity for over 10 years. Multiple Sclerosis (or MS for short) affects over two million people worldwide and there is no cure for this chronic condition. The disease is commonly diagnosed in people aged 20-50 years old. MS is a disease in which the immune system attacks the central nervous system, which can cause blurred vision, loss of balance, poor coordination, slurred speech, tremors, numbness, extreme fatigue, problems with memory and concentration, paralysis, and blindness and more. Visit https://www.nationalmssociety.org/ to get the facts about this disease.

Sketchbook Swap

9:30am - 11:00am Workshop Fairfax

Gundam Building - Beginner

9:30am - 10:30am Panel Gardner

Curb Your Consumerism: Mindful Fandom in a Merch-Driven World

9:30am - 10:30am Panel Constitution A

In a dealer’s hall full of limited editions, blind boxes, and exclusive drops, it’s easy to feel like being a good fan means buying more. This panel is a frank conversation about the culture of collecting in anime fandom, and how to engage with it intentionally instead of impulsively.

International Cosplay Contests 101

10:00am - 11:00am Panel 309

Join Panterona for a comprehensive breakdown of the global cosplay competition scene. This panel explores some of the major international contests, discussing their similarities and differences, exploring how each one works and what potential competitors can expect. Drawing from her experience as both a competitor and judge, Panterona offers practical insight, industry perspective, and honest advice for anyone looking to take their cosplay beyond the local level.

Demon Slayer Photoshoot

10:30am - 11:30am Ballroom A

Looking for fellow cosplay fans from your fandoms? Meet up and take pictures at our cosplay gatherings, hosted by the fans, for the fans.

Navigating Cosplay after 40

10:30am - 11:30am Panel 310

Cosplay is for all ages, though it changes as you get older. From considerations to keep in mind while crafting, to picking costumes and projects, and navigating the convention scene - how is it different now that we're older and (hopefully) wiser? Whether you're new to this wonderful hobby or still remember buying your wigs off Amphigory, let's talk about what it's like to cosplay as you level up in real life. All ages welcome!

East meets West: Western Fantasy Roots of Anime

10:30am - 11:30am Panel 208

Ever wonder why every adventurer has to level up these days? Discover how Western cannon was interpreted to build modern fantasy manga and anime. We'll go back to ancient myth, and see how contemporary fantasy in Japan now intermingles with contemporary fantasy in the West. From the days of Dragon Quest to modern Isekai shenanigans, we'll see how D&D and dungeon crawlers gave us some of anime's most enduring tropes.

Form and Fashion: The World of DIY and Alterations in Lolita Fashion

10:30am - 11:30am Panel 202

Fashion can come at a premium but it doesn't need to be! Dive into the world of creating and modifying your own skirts, dresses, accessories, and so much more. For the lolita DIY or sewist in everyone! Providing resources for beginners and experts alike to make lolita fashion accessible for all!

Let's Play Night in The Woods with Sarah Wiedenheft

10:30am - 11:30am Panel Constitution B

We are a college dropout named Mae Borowski who seeks to resume our aimless former life and reconnect with the friends we left behind in the old mining town of Possum Springs. But things aren't the same. Home seems different now and our friends have grown and changed. Strange things are happening at night. And there’s something in the woods.

Sorairo Utility (PG-13)

10:30am - 12:30pm Hynes - 210

Avid gacha player Minami Aoba finds herself at an impasse when her favorite game announces the end of its live service. Left adrift without her beloved characters, she realizes she has been wasting her first year of high school and sets out to try different clubs to find a new, more productive hobby. However, the harsh truth sets in that she is completely unfit for pretty much every sport her school's clubs have to offer. One fateful afternoon, Minami stumbles upon a golf driving range after helping an old man carry his equipment there. Inside, she meets Haruka Akane, who promptly introduces her to the sport. Much like her previous attempts at athletics, Minami has no natural talent for golf, but something about the rhythm of swinging the club captivates her. Finally, Minami feels the spark of genuine excitement that she has been looking for—a new obsession within her reach.

Blake Shepard Autograph Session

10:30am - 12:00pm Hynes - Ballroom B

Autograph times are subject to change.

Killing Point! K-Pop Skit Contest

11:00am - 12:30pm Events 304

K!Junkies is bringing Killing Point back to Anime Boston, and they're looking for more amazing performances! Expect K-pop inspired performances, anime crossovers, reenactments, and original skits that capture the spirit of K-Pop fandom life. Experience the creativity and passion of fellow fans as performers compete for grand prizes.

Cosplay Talent Showcase

11:00am - 12:30pm Memorial Auditorium

The Cosplay Talent Showcase is a cosplay exhibition event for performers and all kinds of enthusiasts to celebrate a shared passion for singing, dancing, and more. Come watch your favorite stars shine in the spotlight, featuring performances of some of the most iconic characters in anime and games!

Make & Take a Soot Sprite

11:00am - 12:30pm Workshop Fairfax

Make a soot sprite from Spirited Away. Learn to make a pom pom friend during this workshop.

Touhou Project: The Truth Behind the Yokai and Gods

11:00am - 12:00pm Panel Gardner

Have you ever wondered what a kappa really is, or why Reisen Inaba is a rabbit from the moon? Get ready to learn all about the folklore of Touhou! In this panel we take a deep dive into the folklore and mythology that inspired the beloved cast of characters in Touhou, exploring everything from their designs to their relationships with each other. We will discuss regional differences between myths, discuss these Yokai and gods in other popular media, as well as take a deeper look into how Touhou shaped the depiction of Yokai in other animes with side by side comparisons.

Surviving the Zombie Apocalypse with Aaron Dismuke

11:00am - 12:00pm Panel Constitution A

Wanna know how to make a water filter from a plastic bottle and a sock? How to make armor out of duct tape and magazines? Aaron Dismuke has been exploring zombie survival for 15 years and has picked up great advice from all over the country. Come say hi :D

Remixing the Fandom to Share It

11:00am - 12:00pm Panel 207

Join some of our guests, Samantha Ferreira, Brian Price, and Phade as we discuss the things anime fans can do more than just consume, but remix, dive deep, and find ways to bring something else to the fandom, sharing their love with the greater community.

Jonah Scott Autograph Session

11:00am - 12:00pm Hynes - Ballroom B

Autograph times subject to change.

Zach Aguilar Autograph Session

11:00am - 2:00pm Hynes - Ballroom B

Autograph times are subject to change.

Ricco Fajardo Autograph Session

11:00am - 2:00pm Hynes - Ballroom B

Autograph times are subject to change.

Joshua Waters Autograph Session

11:00am - 12:00pm Hynes - Ballroom B

Autograph times are subject to change.

Xander Mobus Autograph Session

11:00am - 2:00pm Hynes - Ballroom B

Autograph times are subject to change.

Mark Whitten Autograph Session

11:00am - 2:00pm Hynes - Ballroom B

Autograph times are subject to change.

My Little Pony and Naruto Mashup Crossover Cosplay Photoshoot Gathering

11:00am - 12:00pm Outside Room 313

Danmei

11:00am - 12:00pm Hynes - 109

Daman Mills Autograph Session

11:00am - 12:00pm Hynes - Ballroom B

Autograph times are subject to change.

Speed Friending (18+)

11:30am - 12:30pm Social 110

Sustainability in Cosplay

11:30am - 12:30pm Panel 309

Ready to make a difference through cosplay? Join us for Sustainability in Cosplay, an educational panel designed for creators of all ages! Whether you’re a seasoned cosplayer or just getting started, come learn how to craft with the planet in mind. Learn easy tips and tricks to reduce, reuse, and recycle your materials, from fabric to wigs to 3D prints! Get inspired, get creative, and leave empowered to make your cosplays more sustainable!

Speed Friending (18+)

12:00pm - 1:00pm Social 111

Friends to Lovers: A Guide to Popular Shoujo Tropes

12:00pm - 1:00pm Panel 310

We all love a good love story. Even in the most action packed story, romance packs the real punch; And often, especially now in the time of social media, people will often "pitch" their favorite stories, anime, video games, even fanfiction to you using some pretty vague tropes! But what do those descriptions actually mean? Well don't worry, because we're going to get into it and explain some of the most popular romance tropes seen in shoujo manga, video games, fanfiction and more!

The Evolution of Otome Isekai Webtoons

12:00pm - 1:00pm Panel 208

The evolution of the otome isekai genre of webtoons has driven a tough market to stand out in. It just doesn't cut it to be a normal high schooler in a brand new world anymore. You need either need photographic memory of the last webnovel you read in order to avoid untimely death, a medical degree and years of surgical experience in order to win the heart of the prince of the empire and avoid untimely death, or play an otome game on hard mode in real life in order to avoid untimely death. Webtoon authors are in cutthroat competition, trying to come up with the most relatable yet unique scenario to stand out in the isekai genre.

"Ghost Stories" - The Little Dub that Could with Monica Rial and Greg Ayres

12:00pm - 1:00pm Panel Constitution B

Once upon a time, in a small studio tucked away in behind a cellphone repair shop in Houston - an idea was hatched for a dub that was FAR from the standard treatment of an animated series. What would follow was far beyond anyone's expectation. Ghost Stories would go from a hysterical inside joke, to a cult phenomenon that continue to entertain (and shock) audiences for two decades. As the years have gone on, the dub, and its origins have developed a folklore of its own, and in some cases - not even close to the truth. Join Monica Rial (Momoko) and Greg Ayres (Leo) to laugh a lot, and learn all about "the little dub that could".

Sarah Wiedenheft Autograph Session

12:00pm - 2:00pm Hynes - Ballroom B

Autograph times are subject to change.

EveryBODY can cosplay shoot

12:00pm - 1:00pm Hynes - 109

Hypnosis Mic

12:00pm - 1:00pm Outside Room 313

Gyaru 101

12:30pm - 1:30pm Panel Gardner

Are you a baby gal, a seasoned J-fashion fan, or just wondering what Gyaru actually is? This panel breaks down the bold world of Gyaru fashion, from iconic makeup and hair to popular substyles and common misconceptions. Learn the do’s and don’ts, insider tips, and how Gyaru has evolved over time. Whether you’re here to learn, admire, or take notes for your next look, this panel is your ultimate guide to all things Gyaru.

Cosplay Scavenger Hunt

12:30pm - 2:30pm Panel 202

Complete cosplay-themed objectives by snapping pictures. See more of what Anime Boston has to offer as you work your way through the halls. We look forward to seeing you this year and having more fun!

Let's Give Them Something to Talk About with Blake Shepard, Daman Mills & Joshua Waters

12:30pm - 1:30pm Panel Constitution A

Come meet Blake Shepard, Daman Mills and Laura Stahl as they discuss the world of voice acting, anime, life, and answers to the greatest question in the universe.

Upgrade Your Premade: Making Mass-Manufactured Cosplays Uniquely Yours

12:30pm - 1:30pm Panel 207

Buying cosplay is easier than ever: but how do you make yours stand out in a crowd of other premades, and feel uniquely yours? Master cosplayer StarsOfCassiopeia will discuss how to approach these sorts of upgrades: choosing character-thematic details and materials, what's easy to change on a garment vs what isn't, and tailoring approaches for achieving an improved fit. Whether you're a brand-new cosplayer or an old pro, join us to learn how to put your original spin on mass-manufactured cosplay!

HIDIVE Presents HELL MODE Dub Special Screening (TV14)

12:30pm - 1:30pm Hynes - 210

Level grind with us for a special screening of the HELL MODE: The Hardcore Gamer Dominates in Another World with Garbage Balancing English dub!

Aaron Dismuke Autograph Session

12:30pm - 2:00pm Hynes - Ballroom B

Autograph times are subject to change.

Circus Spectacular

1:00pm - 2:00pm Ballroom C

Join Changeling Circus for an anime-inspired Circus Spectacular where dynamic acrobatics and beloved fandoms collide. Featuring acts inspired by series ranging from "The Apothecary Diaries" to "Pokémon," this variety show blends dynamic circus performance with storytelling rooted in classic anime themes like growth, adventure, and the power of friendship.

Speed Friending (18+)

1:00pm - 2:00pm Social 110

J-Fashion Swap Meet

1:00pm - 3:00pm Ballroom A

One person’s petticoat is another person’s treasure. Bring your Lolita and alternative Japanese fashion clothing to swap with other fashionistas!

Katsura Sunshine: Sunday Rakugo Performance

1:00pm - 3:00pm Grand Ballroom

The Pokémon Anime: Caught in Translation

1:00pm - 2:00pm Panel 309

Let’s take a behind-the-scenes look at how the Pokémon anime has been adapted for English-speaking audiences over the years. Dubbed by four different studios across its run, the series has seen major changes in dialogue, music, and much more. This panel explores how those decisions shaped the show many fans grew up with, from the late 90s to today, covering studio changes, notable recasts, behind-the-scenes challenges, and even a few legal hurdles, while highlighting how Pokémon’s English adaptation continues to evolve.

Kaigai Idol Meetup！

1:00pm - 2:00pm Hynes - 109

BanG Dream! Girls Band Party! Cosplay Gathering

1:00pm - 2:00pm Hynes - 102

Vocaloid Meetup/Photoshoot

1:00pm - 2:00pm Under Escalators near Room 105

MCYT (Minecraft YouTube) Cosplay Meetup

1:00pm - 2:00pm Outside Room 313

Monica Rial Autograph Session

1:00pm - 2:00pm Hynes - Ballroom B

Autograph times are subject to change.

Jonah Scott Autograph Session

1:00pm - 2:00pm Hynes - Ballroom B

Autograph times are subject to change.

Cosplay Runway

1:30pm - 3:00pm Events 304

Come see Anime Boston’s best and brightest cosplayers strutting their stuff on the catwalk. Cheer for your favorites and show these creators some love!

Speed Friending (18+)

1:30pm - 2:30pm Social 111

Damn Fine Anime: David Lynch in Japanese Pop Culture

1:30pm - 2:30pm Panel 310

Twin Peaks was a surprise hit in Japan, leading to an enduring fascination with the works of director David Lynch. In this panel we’ll take a look at his impact on the broader landscape of Japanese pop culture, from Paranoia Agent to Link’s Awakening (yes, really)!

Itabag Show-and-Tell

1:30pm - 3:00pm Workshop Fairfax

Want to decorate an itabag but don't know where to start? Want to connect with others and show off your bag? Come join us for a casual meet-up to explore the world of itabag decoration! First 50 participants receive a limited edition pin.

The World of Japanese Folk Tales

1:30pm - 3:00pm Panel 208

Thirteen hundred-ish years ago, Japan was already telling stories that we may recognize as the blueprint for the anime and manga we love today. From dragons to tengu, monks to demons, from oni to aliens, Japanese anime, manga, and videogames owe their uniqueness to these stories. So if you want to learn why tengu are jerks, oni are frat bros, turtles are fortuitous, and what sumo wrestlers were like back in MY day, stop by and hear some Japanese folk tales!

Thy Kingdom Come: A History of Christianity in Japan

1:30pm - 2:30pm Panel Constitution B

In the 16th century, Catholicism was introduced to Japan by the foreign explorers who sailed into its bays. From then to the period following the Meiji Restoration, it intersected with politics and culture in ways that are still tangible today, producing conflict and influence alike. Join us to learn about the spread of Christianity through samurai country and how it has shaped the history of Japan!

Golgo 13 The Professional (PG-13)

1:30pm - 3:00pm Hynes - 210

After assassinating the son of business tycoon Leonard Dawson, Golgo 13 finds himself prey to the CIA and the U.S. Army, whom Dawson has personally hired to kill the assassin. As days pass by, Dawson slowly loses his sanity as he continues to plot every attempt to kill Golgo 13 even without caring about who hired the assassin to kill his son.

Greg Ayres Autograph Session

1:30pm - 2:00pm Hynes - Ballroom B

Autograph times are subject to change.

Joshua Waters Autograph Session

1:30pm - 2:00pm Hynes - Ballroom B

Daman Mills Autograph Session

1:40pm - 2:00pm Hynes - Ballroom B

Autograph times are subject to change.

Resin Casting for Cosplay

2:00pm - 3:00pm Panel Gardner

Need some gems in the perfect color/size? Have to make a dozen identical pieces for a costume? Then resin casting is for you! In this panel we'll go over the basics of resin to bring your cosplays to the next level!

We're Still Here: Then & Now as a Transgender Anime Fan

2:00pm - 3:00pm Panel Constitution A

We’re here, we’re queer, let’s talk about it! With the rise of queer and trans representation in the early 00s into the 2010s, there was significant growth in queer and trans subcultures in anime spaces. While there have been strides in representation, there has also been a lot cultural push-back around queer and trans communities and a reduction in queer and trans spaces and representation. This panel is an examination of those spaces, their impacts on both a personal and wider anime community level, an exploration of relevant anime/manga during these time periods, and arguing for why we need to create more of these spaces again in this current moment and for future queer and trans anime fans!

From Moron to Master: Cosplay Fails & What We Learned From Them

2:00pm - 3:00pm Panel 207

Those who ignore the past are doomed to repeat it– and you don't want to repeat these cosplay blunders! Join Cass (@StarsOfCassiopeia), Victoria Rose (@Cosplay.Tory), and Wings (@Winged.Stitches) as they share some of their horror stories. We'll cover everything from mistakes made while creating cosplays from scratch to wardrobe malfunctions at the con to cosplay competition blunders. You'll leave with many laughs and some newfound wisdom for your own cosplay journey!

Twisted Wonderland Cosplay Meetup

2:00pm - 3:00pm Outside Room 313

Wuthering Waves Photoshoot/Meetup

2:00pm - 3:00pm Hynes - 109

Wotagei Meetup

2:00pm - 3:00pm Hynes - 102

Closing Ceremonies

3:00pm - 4:00pm Memorial Auditorium

The convention is over and it's time to close out an amazing weekend. Join us as we talk about the weekend, say goodbye to our guests and enjoy some performances from incredibly talented musicians. Stick around after we're done to see the AMV contest winners! (AMV contest is rated Teen)

Convention Feedback

4:00pm - 5:00pm Panel 207

Please join us after the Closing Ceremony to speak with members of the Anime Boston Executive team and help us better understand what makes Anime Boston enjoyable for you. In this Q and A session, we'll answer your questions and help explain some of the inner workings of the con, as well as listen to feedback to help us learn how to keep making Anime Boston your favorite con!