Anime Central

Anime Central (ACen) is the largest anime, manga, and Japanese popular culture convention in Chicago and the Midwest. Hosted in Rosemont, Illinois, less than 30 minutes from downtown Chicago, the event brings fans together with guests from the Japanese and U.S. anime and manga industries, as well as personalities from gaming, cinema, and Asian culture. The next convention is scheduled for May 14–16, 2027, at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center and Hyatt Regency O’Hare.

ACen offers a broad program of activities and experiences, including guest appearances, autograph sessions, premiere screenings, concerts, dances, educational panels, and workshops. Attendees can explore a large exhibit hall, shop with retailers, and visit an extensive Artist Alley featuring original artwork, prints, and handmade crafts. Gaming options include free-to-play arcade, PC, and console games, tournaments, and tabletop gaming. The convention also hosts cosplay events, a masquerade, children’s programming, a manga library, video programming, and 24-hour video rooms.