The largest anime, manga, and Japanese culture convention in the Midwest is planning its return to the Chicagoland area. Anime Central has blended guests, artists, exhibitors, gaming, and unique programming together in a weekend-long celebration of pop culture. ACen offers an exhibitors hall, video gaming room, premiere screening events, dances, concerts, workshops, panels, anime screening rooms, and tabletop gaming to entertain its attendees who gather to share enthusiasm over their hobbies. In 2022, Acen hosted over 33,000+ attendees following its two-year hiatus.
In preparation for its 2023 convention, Anime Central is now accepting applicants for its Artist Alley and Exhibitor Hall. Anime Central has opened application forms for Panels and Cosplay Gatherings; interested parties who are looking to participate in hosting events dedicated to a certain niche of fandom are encouraged to apply. Those who are looking to host a live performance are welcome to submit queries about their groups appearing at the convention.
Attendee Registration for Anime Central 2023 can be found here. Any attendee who identifies as a convention runner, industry professional, anime organization runner, et cetera is encouraged to fill out the Professional Registration Form to receive a discount on their convention admission. School Groups and Service Members qualify for discounted rates on their attendance at Anime Central 2023. Those registering for a designated table in the Artist Alley or Exhibitor Hall are directed to register through the Registration Service Center after submitting applications for either region of the convention floor. Approved parties for Artist Alley and the Exhibitor Hall will receive emails detailing how to claim their badges in the Service Center. Artists, exhibitors, and panelists should not register on the Attendee Registration page.
Anime Central 2023 will run from May 19, 2023, to May 21, 2023, at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, Ill.