If you happen to see a hoard of costumes walking through downtown Fort Worth this weekend, here's why.
More than 25,000 anime fans and cosplayers are expected to attend A-Kon 28, an anime convention taking place in the Fort Worth Convention Center from Thursday through Sunday. The event will feature panels with voice actors and directors, concerts by Japanese and steampunk bands, and TV and film screenings, along with other activities like a costume contest and art show. Special guests include Japanese rock band Pentagon Japan and voice actors Christopher Sabat (known for his work in Dragon Ball Z) and Matt Mercer (known for his work in Attack on Titan).
“We are thrilled to call Fort Worth our home for this year,” A-Kon founder Meri Davis said in a statement. “With four days of around-the-clock programming, we strive to create a fun and friendly event that caters to fans of all ages and types. Hosting the convention in the heart of such a vibrant downtown presents a great opportunity for our attendees to get out and explore all Fort Worth has to offer.”
A-Kon has taken place in Dallas every year since 1989 but opted to move to Fort Worth this year. According to the Fort Worth Convention and Visitors Bureau (FWCVB), the convention will take place in Fort Worth again next year and may consider moving permanently.
"They are considering making Fort Worth the new home, but it's not official at this time," Sarah Covington, assistant director of public relations at the FWCVB, wrote in an email.
The FWCVB estimates that A-Kon will bring an economic impact of about $15.7 million and 16,596 room nights to Fort Worth.
But Fort Worth geek culture isn't just at A-Kon. Click here to read our article on how people all over the city are getting their nerd on.