What to KnowAnimé Los AngelesThrough Jan. 11Long Beach Convention Center$55 Friday, $65 Saturday, $55 Sunday
The new year arrived in soggy fashion, making the first weekend of 2026 a drench-tastic drizzlefest in Southern California.
It was definitely not the optimal moment to rock your Goku or Sailor Moon ensemble, the incredible and eye-catching outfit that took you weeks, or even months, to carefully put together.
But the second weekend of January will be sunny, bright, and crisp, making it the perfect moment to swan into Animé Los Angeles in spectacular fashion.
The mondo convention, which is one of the best-known cosplay-strong celebrations on the West Coast, is holding joyful court at the Long Beach Convention Center through Jan. 11.
Some highlights include Cosplay Chess — players will gather on an oversized board and move in strategic fashion — and the opportunity to watch incredible illustrators at work, and chat them up, in the Artists Alley area.
Tabletop gaming, the Manga Lounge, and opportunities to show off your karaoke prowess are also on the sparkle-filled schedule.
And if there is an issue with one of your sparkly wings, your wig, or another element of your glam get-up, the all-important Cosplay Repair Station is ready to help you fix your issue and get back to the events.
One especially uplifting spot? It’s Ribbon Station, which gives convention attendees the chance to gussy-up their badges with all sorts of fluttery and fun add-ons.
To check out all of the great spots to call upon, and the special guest list — as always, they’re plentiful and much-loved by the fans of this venerable expo — visit this site now.