Make use of the schedule
Otakon offers many different interesting and fun events; however, it is impossible to attend all of them. In the weeks leading up the convention, the official convention schedule will be released on Otakon’s website, here: http://www.otakon.com/events_schedule.asp.
In order to make the most out of all three days, it’s important to look at the schedule ahead of time and decide what events you would most like to attend. The most popular events, such as new film showings or autograph sessions will likely have very long lines and/or a cap to the number of people who can enter. By deciding on the events you would like to attend ahead of time, you can be sure to get in line early and not chance missing out.
Familiarize Yourself with the Convention Center
Otakon is held annually in the Baltimore Convention Center. Due to its large size, the building can be difficult to navigate. When you first arrive at Otakon, spend some time walking around the convention center to get a better idea of where things are located and make note of where events you are interested in are being held. It can take up to ten minutes to walk from one end to the other when the halls are crowded, so give yourself enough time to get between rooms when you’re making your plans. It may also be a good idea to decide on a meeting place (and time) with friends in the case that you get separated and want to meet back up for mealtimes or before special events. One popular and easy to find meeting place is by the fountains on the lower level of Charles Street Lobby. You can also download a map of the convention center beforehand from Otakon’s official website. (Look under the ‘Vitals’ section on the left-hand side tabs.)
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| Fullmetal Alchemist cosplay at Otakon 2011 |
Bring Extra Money
With the cost of hotel, ticket, and food, the convention experience is already a bit expensive. However, on top of all that there is also the allure of the Dealer’s Room and Artist’s Alley. Anime conventions offer the unique chance to buy merchandise firsthand that you would usually have to search for online, such as costumes, anime figures, magazines, and stuffed animals. Shopping is part of the fun, so if you can, bring enough money to buy a few souvenirs.
Attend a Panel
There are many panels at Otakon on a wide variety of topics (including non-anime related panels, such as panels about street fashions or traditional Japanese culture), so there's bound to be at least one that appeals to your interests. Panels offer the chance for fans to exchange knowledge and ideas about a variety of topics, as well as the opportunity to learn new things! There are also panels that focus on humor and playing games! The Otakon schedule includes a description for every panel, so check it out and see what you can find.
Talk to New People
Anime conventions are meant to bring people who share love of anime and Japanese pop culture together, and offer the chance to forge new friendships. You'll probably be waiting in a line or two, so try talking to the people around you. Just by lining up for the same panel or event, you already have something in common.
If you're having trouble deciding what events to attend, here are a few of the most popular:
1. The Masquerade: The Saturday night Masquerade is a show where participants show off their cosplay, usually by performing a short skit. The show is a staple of anime conventions and is usually quite entertaining. The winners a prize, typically a free ticket to the next year's Otakon, so feel free to try your hand at participating, too!
2. The Concert: Every year Otakon features a concert or two, usually by Japanese bands or singers that come all the way to Baltimore to perform for fans both new and old. Even if you've never heard of the act before, check out the concert. You may find your new favorite music group!
3. The Dance: The dance runs on Friday and Saturday night until 3am. It's a great chance to have fun after dark and meet new people. Various DJs will perform anything from pop songs to anime remixes!
Attend a Panel
There are many panels at Otakon on a wide variety of topics (including non-anime related panels, such as panels about street fashions or traditional Japanese culture), so there's bound to be at least one that appeals to your interests. Panels offer the chance for fans to exchange knowledge and ideas about a variety of topics, as well as the opportunity to learn new things! There are also panels that focus on humor and playing games! The Otakon schedule includes a description for every panel, so check it out and see what you can find.
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| Speakers at a panel at Otakon in 2008 |
Check Out the Cosplay
While you're at Otakon, no matter which way you turn you'll be able to see people in costume. Not only anime characters, but also popular video game characters, movie characters, and even personified internet memes will be roaming the halls. If you find yourself with a bit of free time between panels, try wandering around or sitting by the Charles Street Lobby fountains and enjoy people-watching.
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| Mahou Shoujo Madoka Magika cosplay (2011) |
Anime conventions are meant to bring people who share love of anime and Japanese pop culture together, and offer the chance to forge new friendships. You'll probably be waiting in a line or two, so try talking to the people around you. Just by lining up for the same panel or event, you already have something in common.
If you're having trouble deciding what events to attend, here are a few of the most popular:
1. The Masquerade: The Saturday night Masquerade is a show where participants show off their cosplay, usually by performing a short skit. The show is a staple of anime conventions and is usually quite entertaining. The winners a prize, typically a free ticket to the next year's Otakon, so feel free to try your hand at participating, too!
2. The Concert: Every year Otakon features a concert or two, usually by Japanese bands or singers that come all the way to Baltimore to perform for fans both new and old. Even if you've never heard of the act before, check out the concert. You may find your new favorite music group!
3. The Dance: The dance runs on Friday and Saturday night until 3am. It's a great chance to have fun after dark and meet new people. Various DJs will perform anything from pop songs to anime remixes!
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| The Japanese group Home Made Kazoku performed at Otakon in 2010 |
