Must-Attend Comic and Anime Conventions in 2025 Featuring Epic Guests and Exciting Events

As we step into 2025, the excitement surrounding upcoming comic and anime conventions is palpable. Fans from all walks of life gather to celebrate their favorite characters, stories, and creative expressions at these vibrant events. Whether you're an anime lover, a comic book enthusiast, or simply a curious newcomer, there’s something truly magical about stepping into the world of your favorite fandom. Get ready to mark your calendars because here are some of the must-attend conventions this year!

Anime St. Louis (April 25-27)

Anime St. Louis is set to be a highlight of the spring convention season. This event promises a captivating blend of panels, workshops, and exhibits that will keep attendees engaged throughout the weekend.

One of the most exciting aspects of Anime St. Louis is its lineup of special guests. This year, expect appearances from voice actors who breathed life into beloved characters, and industry professionals who can provide unique insights into the animation process.

In addition to panels, cosplay contests are a major highlight. Whether you’re a cosplayer yourself or simply want to appreciate the craftsmanship on display, this convention doesn’t disappoint. Attendees are known to go all out with their costumes, so expect some amazing creations that showcase their favorite characters.

For those who love exclusive merchandise, Anime St. Louis often features vendors with unique offerings, from rare collectibles to handmade crafts. Don’t miss the chance to grab something special to add to your collection!

A lively cosplay contest showcasing creativity and fandom spirit.

Castle Point Anime Convention (April 26-27)

Just a day apart, Castle Point Anime Convention offers another fantastic opportunity for fans. Located in Hoboken, New Jersey, this convention has gained a reputation for its friendly atmosphere and engaging programming.

Castle Point prides itself on being organized by fans for fans, ensuring that every aspect of the convention resonates with the attendee experience. Expect a diverse range of panels that explore different facets of anime, manga, and Japanese culture. Whether you're looking to learn about anime history or participate in discussions about the latest trends, there’s something for everyone.

The cosplay scene at Castle Point is vibrant and inclusive, with contests held to spotlight both novice and expert cosplayers alike. Attendees flock to this event not just to participate but also to take pictures and admire the stunning creativity on display.

In addition, the convention floor is bustling with vendors offering an assortment of merchandise, from prints to plushies. Have your wallets ready because you’ll want to bring home a memory of your experience!

A bustling vendor area at Castle Point, brimming with anime merchandise and collectibles.

Anime Expo (July 3-6)

Anime Expo is one of the largest and most anticipated conventions in North America. Taking place every July in Los Angeles, this colossal gathering attracts thousands of fans eager to celebrate anime in all its forms.

The lineup of guests for Anime Expo is often outstanding, featuring renowned voice actors, directors, and even creators from Japan. Their panels provide not only entertainment but also invaluable insights into the industry.

Anime Expo is famous for its massive exhibits and interactive installations that bring beloved anime shows to life. Curious fans can participate in exclusive screenings, workshops, and more. One of the most cherished aspects of Anime Expo is the community—it offers a space for fans to connect and create lasting friendships.

Moreover, the cosplay contest at Anime Expo is legendary. With impressive prizes for the best costumes, attendees showcase an incredible range of talent that elevates the art of cosplay to new heights.

A stunning cosplayer showcasing intricate costume details at Anime Expo.

Wizard World Comic Con (Various Dates)

With multiple events held throughout the year in cities across the United States, Wizard World Comic Con brings together comic book lovers and pop culture enthusiasts. Fans can enjoy a variety of programming that focuses on comics, TV shows, movies, and gaming.

Every event features celebrity guests, artists, and authors, offering attendees the chance to engage in discussions, signings, and photo ops. The appeal of Wizard World lies in its mixture of fandoms—whether you’re into superheroes, anime, or science fiction, you’re bound to find something that piques your interest.

Alongside the guests and panels, Wizard World Comic Con often includes an array of vendors selling everything from popular comic books to unique fandom merchandise. This makes it an ideal place for collectors to find treasures.

New York Comic Con (October 2-5)

New York Comic Con is a staple in the comic book and anime calendar, and 2025 promises to be no exception. Taking place in the heart of New York City, this convention attracts guests from all corners of the entertainment universe, including anime, film, television, and gaming.

One of the hallmarks of New York Comic Con is its availability of exclusive merchandise and limited-edition items. Collectors often line up for hours in anticipation of snagging those special items that are hard to find elsewhere.

Fans can attend a multitude of panels that often feature sneak peeks of upcoming shows and movies, interactive discussions, and Q&A sessions with leading creators. This yearly tradition provides insight into the creative process and allows fans to connect with the talents behind their favorite series.

Cosplaying is also a huge part of the experience, with attendees bringing their A-game to showcase their favorite characters. The vibrant atmosphere and boundless creativity make this an event that’s not to be missed.

Conclusion

As 2025 unfolds, the lineup of comic and anime conventions provides an exciting opportunity for fans to engage with their passions. From Anime St. Louis and Castle Point Anime Convention to larger events like Anime Expo, Wizard World Comic Con, and New York Comic Con, there's no shortage of events to choose from.

These conventions not only foster community and celebration among fans but also allow for deeper engagement with the worlds of anime and comics. Whether you're looking to connect with other fans, meet your favorite creators, or explore the latest trends in the industry, attending these conventions will undoubtedly enrich your experience.

So gather your friends, prepare those costumes, and get ready to immerse yourself in the colorful and dynamic world of anime and comic conventions in 2025!