From Manga to Music: A Celebration of Japanese Culture at Kanpai!Con

If you're a lover of anime, manga, or Japanese pop culture, Kanpai!Con is the ultimate way to kick off your year with a bang. Taking place from April 18-20, 2025, at the Hilton Omaha, this three-day event is a high-energy, immersive convention that celebrates not just anime but the entire spectrum of Japanese culture. While many conventions focus solely on fandom, Kanpai!Con goes the extra mile by blending entertainment, education, and appreciation of Japanese traditions, art, and lifestyle.

What sets Kanpai!Con apart? It's a community-focused event, meaning that beyond the panels, concerts, and cosplay, it's about forming friendships, sharing experiences, and truly engaging with the culture. Whether you're a first-time con-goer or a seasoned veteran, there's something exciting waiting for you.

What Awaits You at Kanpai!Con?

From stage shows to tabletop gaming, from martial arts demonstrations to exhilarating concerts, Kanpai!Con is packed with events that bring Japanese culture to life. Here’s a breakdown of what you absolutely can’t miss at this year’s convention.

Exhibit Hall & Artist Alley: A Paradise for Collectors and Creators

Step into a shopper’s dream at Kanpai!Con’s Exhibit Hall, where vendors bring an exciting variety of anime merchandise, exclusive collectibles, and handcrafted goods. Whether you’re hunting for rare figurines, plushies, cosplay accessories, manga, or artisan crafts inspired by Japanese culture, you’ll find it all here. Many vendors even offer convention-exclusive items you won’t see anywhere else!

Right next to the Exhibit Hall, Artist Alley is the ultimate destination for fans who love unique, handcrafted art. Meet talented independent artists selling original prints, commissions, enamel pins, stickers, and other creative works. Whether you're searching for a one-of-a-kind keepsake or want to support rising talent in the anime community, this is the perfect place to explore.

Gaming Galore: Video Games, Tabletop, and Tournaments

Calling all gamers! Kanpai!Con offers a massive gaming experience for both casual and competitive players.

• Video Game Arena – Dive into a world of fighting games, rhythm games, retro arcade titles, and more! From casual play to high-energy tournaments with prizes, there’s something for every level of gamer.
• Tabletop Gaming Zone – Whether you're a seasoned Dungeon Master or just learning the ropes, enjoy open board gaming, trading card duels, and epic Dungeons & Dragons campaigns. Meet fellow fans, try out new games, and battle it out for glory!

Expect everything from friendly free play to high-stakes competitions—so bring your A-game!

Cosplay Extravaganza & The Grand Cosplay Competition

Cosplay is at the heart of Kanpai!Con, and there are endless ways to showcase your creativity!

• Cosplay Meetups & Photoshoots – Connect with fellow cosplayers, pose for epic group photos, and celebrate your shared fandoms.
• Workshops & Panels – Learn insider tips on crafting, sewing, wig styling, and posing techniques from experienced cosplayers.
• The Grand Cosplay Competition – Take the stage in Kanpai!Con’s biggest cosplay showdown! Whether you’re a seasoned competitor or a first-timer, impress the audience and expert judges with your craftsmanship, stage presence, and creativity.

From casual cosplay fun to serious competition, this is your moment to shine!

The Fantasy Ball & Fabulous Date Auction

Need a break from the high-energy convention atmosphere? Step into an elegant evening at the Fantasy Ball, a magical event filled with music and ballroom dancing. Never danced before? No worries! Professional dance lessons will be provided before the ball, ensuring that everyone—whether a seasoned dancer or a complete beginner—has an unforgettable night.

Feeling adventurous? The Fabulous Date Auction offers a fun and lighthearted opportunity to bid for a friendly companion to accompany you to the ball. Whether you participate or just watch, it’s always a fan-favorite event!

Concerts, Karaoke, & Stage Shows: Live Entertainment Like No Other

Kanpai!Con takes live entertainment to the next level!

• Concerts & DJ Sets – Get ready for electrifying performances, including anime and J-Pop concerts, rock bands, and EDM DJs transforming the venue into an unforgettable dance party.
• Karaoke Krypt – Unleash your inner idol and belt out anime openings, J-Pop anthems, and classic tunes in a fun, supportive environment.
• Stage Shows & Performances – Enjoy a variety of interactive stage productions, from live game shows and comedy acts to 18+ burlesque performances that offer a more daring experience after dark.

If you love music, comedy, and high-energy performances, these events are must-sees!

Martial Arts Demonstrations: Samurai Skills in Action

Ever wondered what real samurai combat looked like? Experience the precision, power, and discipline of traditional Japanese martial arts with thrilling live demonstrations.

Led by renowned experts like Samurai Dan and Jillian, these performances bring 16th-century battle techniques to life. Watch authentic swordplay, learn about historical weapons, and witness the artistry of samurai training up close.

Whether you’re a martial arts enthusiast or just curious about Japan’s warrior history, these demonstrations offer a fascinating look at the real-world combat techniques that inspired so many anime and manga battles.

Fan-Run Panels: A Deep Dive into Fandom and Beyond

Kanpai!Con’s fan-run panels are a highlight of the convention, offering attendees the chance to explore a vast range of topics presented by fellow fans. While many panels focus on anime, gaming, and pop culture, the beauty of fan-driven content is that it can branch out in surprising directions. One panel might analyze the latest trends in virtual reality and its role in classrooms, while another could guide aspiring entrepreneurs through the first steps of launching their own startup. The variety of topics makes these panels an excellent way to indulge in your favorite fandoms while learning something new.

Attendees may find themselves sitting in on a discussion about minimalist design principles and how they apply to decluttering small living spaces before jumping into a lively debate about the best strategies for digital marketing. Some panels might explore practical skills, such as repairing a credit score or navigating the challenges of learning a second language. Travel enthusiasts could stumble upon panels discussing valuable advice on avoiding overcrowded tourist spots when in Japan, ensuring a more authentic experience when visiting Kyoto or Osaka. The spontaneity of these fan-led panels means you never quite know what to expect—but that’s part of the fun.

Beyond informational topics, some panels focus on lifestyle changes and personal growth. There could be discussions on balcony gardening for those looking to cultivate greenery in small spaces, as well as panels dedicated to plant-based living and making the transition to a vegan diet. Others might touch on mindfulness practices like meditation and stress management, offering techniques to help convention-goers maintain balance in their daily lives. With so many possibilities, the panels become more than just a place to geek out—they turn into spaces where fans can inspire one another in unexpected ways.

Since the lineup of fan-run panels changes every year, there’s always something new to discover. Whether you want to explore an in-depth anime analysis, gain insights on launching a business, or pick up a hobby you never considered before, these panels prove that fandom is more than just entertainment—it’s a gateway to learning, creativity, and personal connections.

Meet the Voices Behind Your Favorite Characters

Kanpai!Con is proud to welcome an exciting lineup of voice actors, performers, and industry professionals who are ready to spend the weekend meeting fans, signing autographs, and sharing behind-the-scenes stories from the world of anime and gaming!

Greg Ayres

A veteran voice actor with over 376 credits, Greg Ayres has brought to life some of anime’s most beloved characters. He’s best known for his roles as Yu Nishinoya (Haikyu!!), Chrono (Chrono Crusade), Kaoru Hitachiin (Ouran High School Host Club), and Son Goku (Saiyuki Reload Zeroin). Whether voicing heroic leads or mischievous troublemakers, Greg’s performances always leave an impression!

Oscar Seung

A Swiss-born, Dallas-based actor and musician, Oscar Seung has appeared in anime, film, and theater. Anime fans may recognize him as Seung-Gil Lee (Yuri on Ice), Nao Serizawa (Free!), and Kurama (Ayaka). In addition to voice acting, Oscar has starred in We Can Be Heroes (Netflix) and The Turkey Bowl (Hulu), championing Asian-American representation in media.

Tom & Dorothy Fahn

This powerhouse voice acting couple has voiced iconic roles across anime and video games. Tom Fahn is best known as Agumon (Digimon: Digital Monsters) and has appeared in Dragon Ball Super, JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure, and Hunter x Hunter. Dorothy Fahn has brought characters to life in Demon Slayer (Kie Kamado), Fire Emblem: Three Houses (Mercedes), and Naruto (Konan), making her a fan favorite in both anime and gaming communities.

Brianna Roberts

Brianna has made a name for herself in both anime and video games. She’s best known for her roles as Arthur Pencilgon (Shangri-La Frontier), Sakura (Urusei Yatsura), and Miranjo (Ranking of Kings). Her gaming credits include Kaida (Diablo IV) and Ragnarok Hera (SMITE), proving her versatility across different mediums.

Samurai Dan & Jillian

More than just martial artists, this husband-and-wife team are full-time instructors in 16th-century samurai arts. Their live demonstrations bring the historical combat techniques of the samurai to life, blending education, humor, and high-energy action. They’ve also starred in the TV series The Way of the Samurai and frequently share their deep knowledge of Japan’s warrior culture.

Erica Muse

With roles spanning anime, video games, and live-action, Erica Muse is known for her voice work in One Piece (Cinnamon), The Fruit of Evolution (Kannazuki), and Aphmau (Ivy). She has also appeared in commercials, web series, and indie films, making her a rising star to watch.

With such an incredible lineup of guests, panels, and autograph sessions, Kanpai!Con promises fans an unforgettable chance to meet the talent behind their favorite characters. Whether you’re an anime lover, gamer, or aspiring voice actor, don’t miss this opportunity to connect with the pros!

Plan Ahead: Ticket Information & Travel Tips

Kanpai!Con is a highly anticipated event, and tickets can sell out quickly. To avoid missing out, purchase your passes as early as possible through the official website. Keep an eye out for early registration discounts and special promotions to save on admission.

Travel & Accommodations

The convention takes place at the Hilton Omaha, where attendees can book rooms at a special discounted rate of $103 per night. Staying on-site provides the ultimate convenience—you’ll have a place to rest, store your cosplay, and easily return between events. If you're staying elsewhere, plan your commute in advance and consider parking availability or nearby transportation options.

Convention Survival Guide: Tips for All Attendees

• Pack Like a Pro – Bring comfortable shoes for long days on your feet, a portable phone charger to stay connected, and a small bag to carry merch, snacks, and essentials.
• Budget Smartly – While most vendors accept credit cards,carrying cash is useful, especially for Artist Alley purchases and smaller booths.
• Hydration & Breaks – Staying energized is key! Drink plenty of water, eat meals at regular intervals, and schedule downtime to avoid burnout.
• Cosplay Comfort – If you're cosplaying, bring a repair kit for quick fixes, safety pins, and extra wig tape or accessories to keep your look intact throughout the day.
• Stay Connected & Safe – If attending solo, share your schedule with a friend and arrange meetup spots in case of lost phone signals. Convention halls can get busy, so have a plan in place to reconnect with your group.
• Eco-Friendly Transport – Reduce hassle (and your carbon footprint) by using Omaha’s public transit, rideshare services, or walking if your hotel is nearby.

Why Omaha is the Perfect Host City

For out-of-town guests, Omaha is more than just the home of Kanpai!Con—it’s a city full of surprises, blending Midwestern charm with a vibrant cultural scene. If you have extra time before or after the convention, explore Omaha’s hidden gems and local favorites.

Start with the Old Market District, a lively, historic neighborhood known for its cobblestone streets, independent bookstores, quirky boutiques, and street performers. Beyond the usual cafés and restaurants, visit Hollywood Candy, an eclectic retro candy shop featuring a soda fountain, pinball arcade, and a vintage movie memorabilia collection.

For a one-of-a-kind experience, stop by Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium, consistently ranked among the best in the world. While its massive indoor desert and rainforest exhibits are well-known, fewer people realize you can take an underground tram ride through the Kingdoms of the Night, the world's largest nocturnal animal exhibit, or explore the hidden backstage tours to see conservation efforts up close.

Omaha’s food scene is another hidden treasure. While the city is famous for its steakhouses, there's a growing community of authentic Japanese ramen shops, artisanal bakeries, and international cuisine. For something unexpected, check out Yoshitomo, a James Beard-nominated sushi restaurant offering creative omakase experiences, or head to Block 16, a local favorite known for its gourmet street food twists. If you're craving something sweet, Coneflower Creamery serves farm-to-table ice cream flavors you won’t find anywhere else.

Whether you're looking for an exciting nightlife scene, relaxing green spaces like Lauritzen Gardens, or an unusual adventure like the speakeasy-style bars hidden behind secret doors, Omaha has something for every kind of visitor. Kanpai!Con is just the beginning—make the most of your time in this underrated gem of a city!

Mark Your Calendars for an Epic Weekend!

Kanpai!Con is more than an anime convention—it’s a celebration of Japanese culture, fandom, and creativity. Whether you're looking to meet your favorite voice actors, dance the night away, discover new artists, or simply hang out with fellow fans, this convention offers a little bit of everything.

So mark your calendars, gather your friends, and get ready for an unforgettable weekend in Omaha. Kanpai! (Cheers!) to anime, music, gaming, and the magic of fandom!