Panels
Panel Room 1A – CB 121
How to survive a con weekend
10:30a to 11:00a
A story of how cosplay saved this 33-year-old woman’s life. Diagnosed with Autism, ADHD, and Cervical Cancer within one week of each other in September 2024, this cosplayer’s journey has not been easy. Learn how to survive a con event while being neurodivergent. It is so much more than just a Sensory Room. Next, we’ll discuss the importance of being proactive to prevent Cervical Cancer! And finally, learn how cosplay truly did save my life.
A Bangya’s Guide to Visual Kei
11:30a to 12:30p
This panel will provide an in-depth review of the Japanese rock genre known as visual kei. The audience will learn about its history, the various subcultures associated with it, and its distinctive fashion. The panel will also introduce new and exciting visual kei groups and highlight the genre’s significance in anime music and beyond.
Ask A Cosplay Judge Anything!
1:00p to 1:30p
Have questions for Kogaracon’s 2025 Cosplay Guests? Wondering about their secret techniques or hidden methods? Come ask them anything!
I just entered a Cosplay Masquerade…Now what do I do?
2:00p to 2:30p
In this panel I will talk about my experience from joining Masquerades for skit performance side. There will be honest suggestions, tips, tricks and answer questions related to cosplay masquerades.
Fairy Racing
3:00p to 3:30p
Fairy Racing is a fictional game series inspired by 1990’s arcade racing games, featuring original music by Suno, and CGI animations that aim to bring the characters from the game to life. We will be presenting a curated selection of music videos to play specifically for this event, including several bumpers from our show runner Mad Pixie. You can follow us on Instagram at @fairyracingofficial or TikTok at @fairyracing for more information.
The Evolution of the Modern Weeb
4:00p to 5:00p
What if I told you that “weebs” have existed for centuries? This panel is an exploration of the history and origins of Japan-obsessives with a focus on notable historical figures who collected “merch”, traded prints, and longed to visit Japan just like us. We’ll trace the storied lineage of weebs back from modern day figures such as Megan Thee Stallion and Steve Jobs to the impressionists of the Japonism movement, and all the way back to a common ancestor.
What’s a Denonbu?: Bandai’s Idol Media
5:30p to 6:30p
This panel will be about the idol media Denonbu and will introduce the mainline franchise and the 5 groups that come with it along with the seiyuus apart of the series. I will also be going over the 8 secondary groups and their members and which other companies were involved in their creation. Since it a music-based franchise, I will also be going over the DJs that they commissioned to create the music. I will delve into the cities that each of the units are from and how that ties into their group identity. Each group is heavily inspired by their location and it is apparent when comparing the different groups.
Panel Room 1B – CB 122
VIRTUAL PANEL THEATER: The Boy and the Heron — A Modern Masterpiece
11:00a to 12:00p
An in-depth look at Hayao Miyazaki’s Oscar winning 2023 masterpiece. Features clips, slides, and information.
Sword on back: A cosplayer’s guide
12:30p to 1:00p
I want to teach cosplayers on how to more easily wear, draw, and sheath swords with the scabbard on their back (like Link from The Legend of Zelda, Geralt from The Witcher, Trunks from Dragon Ball, etc.). This is a feat that is rather difficult to pull off (literally) as it depends on the user’s arm length and flexibility. I’d like to demonstrate how this can be more easily achieved.
Not only that, but I’d also like to demonstrate other tricks to make managing back scabbards easier, such as how to wear a backpack and how to deal with low clearance.
I hope that my guidance will help make it easier for cosplayers to pull it off (literally).
Black Characters in Anime: The Good, The Bad, & The Non-Black
1:30p to 2:30p
This panel peers into the somewhat rocky relationship between black people and the characters that portray them in anime. From the first black anime character, to the characters that black people love to claim as their own, this panel aims to not only inform con goers of the different tropes that black characters tend to have in anime but also highlight characters and shows that may otherwise be overlooked in this vast world that is anime. In the end we want con goers to leave with a better understanding between black people and our love of anime.
Throughout the panel we’ve included a few mini guessing games as well as open discussion questions for the audience pertaining to the topic.
Old Rhythm Games had some Charm, E-O-E-O-S: Live Service Rhythm Games You Can’t Play Anymore
3:00p to 4:00p
Rhythm games have been released onto various platforms, and through smartphones, various developers can present it to almost everyone in the world at the palm of their hands. However, at some point one may receive a notification regarding its End of Service….for a rhythm game?! Come and discover the old & departed live service rhythm games that had players tapping and in-app purchasing until the very end, and why these games cease to exist for some economic & (probably) business-related reason.
Cosplay Wigs for Beginners
4:30p to 5:30p
“I’m Sarah Crystall, a cosplayer, social media influencer, and wig styler. I’ve been cosplaying since December 2018 and doing wig commissions since June 2022. One of my main focuses in cosplay is wig styling, which I have learned the ins and outs of over the years. I have taught multiple people how to style wigs and have styled wigs for numerous people, making me highly qualified to advise on how to style wigs for other cosplayers. For this panel I would discuss all the tools and basics required for wig styling, as well as show how to get started.”
Panel Room 1C – CB 124
Glitter, Sequins, and Rhinestones… OH MY!
11:30a to 12:30p
Do you sew idol costumes? Or do you just want to discover the right fabric for your competition piece? Then does Queen Clover have the panel for you on everything sparkly. You’ll learn about a plethora of different materials, how and where to use them, and how to budget the more unique and expensive materials.
Cosplay Photo Shoots 101
1:00p to 2:00p
Learn what it takes to be a cosplayer or photographer at your own photo shoot! We will focus on the basics from both perspectives. Topics may include:
Before Shoot
– Hall Shot vs Photo Shoot
– Pricing Packages
– Expectations: Deliverables Timeline, Editing, Style Flexibility
During Shoot
– Consent and Etiquette
– Flash vs. Natural Light
– Posing
– Positive Feedback & Shot Previews
– Session Flow
After Shoot
– Communication
Chaimeras Hoard and Swap Meet
2:30p to 4:00p
(RWAAR) ahem I mean hello welcome to Chaimeras Hoard Swap Meet. Do you have treasures you no longer want or have room for? Then come on down and display your hoard alongside other treasurer’s and see if you can swap for some cool new treasures and swag. No money allowed only swapping. no weapons. No means no – do not hound for a swap or be irritating about it. Please respect other swappers answers and items.
Derpy Dragons and Dungeons
4:30p to 6:30p
Come embark on a perilous quest to defeat the might Chaimera the dragon god of chaos. Make friends along the way – get through dangerous caverns and maybe meet a weird goblin named Greg. Come forth brave adventurers! Test your might and courage and have fun on this spontaneous wild adventure through dungeons and dragons. Please bring your own characters level 5 I will have premade as well.
Panel Room 1D – CB 103
Demon Court: Case of the Negligent Prince
12:00p to 1:00p
Demon Court is a dynamic, family friendly, DnD-style mock trial panel where the audience plays a role in determining the fate of the accused, Prince Stolas. Participants can either defend him to prove his innocence or present evidence to find him guilty. Before the panel, character cards will be distributed to the audience, allowing individuals to step into the roles of lawyers, witnesses, and key players in the trial. Using the evidence on these cards, they’ll engage in debates to sway the verdict. Ultimately, the jury (the audience) will cast their votes, and the judge (our moderator) will render the final decision. This interactive experience blends fun and education, offering participants a chance to explore the workings of a courtroom while enjoying an immersive, lighthearted trial.
Seeing Stars
1:30 to 2:30p
Seeing Stars is a workshop that teaches people how to make origami lucky stars. This activity is a way to relieve anxiety and deal with overstimulation in a creative, affordable, and safe way.
Tales from the Asylum with Dr. Quinzel and Dr. Young
3:00p to 4:00p
Interactive Q&A with Harley Quin and Doctor Young cosplayers based on the Arkhamverse, where we tell true stories from the in-game lore of all of the Arkham games. There will be a PowerPoint presentation attached. There also may be special guest appearances from other characters in the Arkham verse like Jonathan Crane and the Rat Catcher
Pokemon Kahoot
4:30 to 5:30p
Everything on Pokemon beyond history
Panel Room 1E – CB 102
Becoming an independent artist
11:00a to 12:00p
This panel will be an about becoming an independent artist, making a living from your craft and the path I took to get there.
Wotagei Workshop with Aniwaza
12:30p to 2:00p
Do you love Japanese music and would you like to be able to rock out to it with other fans in an exciting way? Come join the members of Aniwaza as we welcome you into the world of Wotagei and cyalume dance! In this interactive workshop, we will teach you how to perform the light stick dance that is a staple amongst Otakus in Japan. We’ll make sure you have all the moves you need to create a wondrous light show to amaze your friends at cons!
Tournament of Voices
3:00p to 4:00p
In this voice acting competition players are selected from the audience to perform a video game/anime character’s voice. Creativity is encouraged and winners are decided by the audience!
Dynamic Improv: Anime Edition
4:30p to 6:00p
In this panel, we’ll have our wheel of scenarios in which pairs or groups will team up to create hilarious and crazy scenarios. And for the first time, we will be crowning our first Dynamic Improv Champion. So come and join us, share a laugh or two, and create unforgettable and hilarious out-of-this-world moments where you control the story!
Panel Room 1F – CB 101
Mabel’s Friendship Match Maker Panel
11:00a to 12:00p
Are you lonely? Weird? Kind of awkward like my brother Dipper? Well, look no further than ☆Mabel Pines’ Friendship Match Maker! ☆ Here, you’ll get the chance to make new friends and find your BEST BUDDY! Compete to win a friendship with fellow Gravity Falls townspeople, like my weird brother Dipper or my Grunkles! And maybe even a special guest? Come on down!! We have stickers and a (pretend) pig you can pet!!! Who wouldn’t want that??!?!?
The Hot Tea on Hands-Free Gaming: An Accessibility Panel
12:30p to 1:30p
A panel about the latest accessibility technology for gamers with disabilities. There will also be time at the end of the panel for other gamers with disabilities to share their personal experiences with gaming accessibility. A lot has happened in the last year, let’s talk about it!
So You Want To Staff A Con?
2:00p to 3:00p
Are you tired of staying in hotel rooms with too many humans? Are cons becoming too expensive for you? Do you have too much work ethic and not enough energy to make eight costumes for a three day event anymore? Ready for your Anime AARP card? Staffing conventions may be the answer? Join two experienced staffers who’ve worked their way up from grunts to department heads as we talk about the perks, shenanigans, and entry points to helping your favorite events run smoothly.
From Pixels to People: How Virtual Pets Bring Us Together
3:30p to 4:30p
“Tamagotchis still exist?!” Yes! The beloved 90s virtual pet phenomenon is back and bigger than ever, sparking a global resurgence and inspiring fan clubs worldwide. Virtual pets are more than just a nostalgic toy, it’s a way to connect, build friendships, and create supportive communities.
Join your host, the NYC Tamagotchi Club, along with special guests, club leaders from the New Jersey Tamagotchi Club, New England Tamagotchi Club, and Delaware Tamagotchi Club for an engaging panel all about how virtual pets bring people together.
Learn how fan clubs and meetups can foster new friendships, help reduce social anxiety, and create exciting shared experiences. Whether you’re looking to start your own fan community or simply want to connect with fellow enthusiasts, this panel will provide insights and inspiration on how to build meaningful connections through a shared passion.
Plus, a few lucky attendees will walk away with exclusive prizes!
Dance & Nerd Culture
5:00p to 6:00p
A sit down discussion of how interconnected dance and nerd culture is, and more specifically Black and Queer Street/Club Dance styles and their appearance in video games, anime, or said communities embodying characters as ways of Empowerment Fantasy. Examples will be given, with video and photos from personal dance theses, other professional performances, and video game/anime references. May culminate into a mini performance in the beginning or end of discussion.
Panel Room 2A – CB 214
The Best Anime Movies you Haven’t Seen!
11:30a to 12:30p
The title says it all. This is a panel about anime movies from yesteryear that I think are worth checking out from the 1980s all the way up to the 2010s. The panel will feature clips from each movie on the panel, and I will be printing out reference sheets that have all the movies featured on the panel along with their availability to the fans in attendance.
Altering, Sewing, and Patterning! Oh My!
1:00p to 2:00p
Have you ever wanted to sew or even modify a cosplay, but have no clue where to start? Well then, you’ve come to the right place! Learn about the art of sewing and pattern making from two people that started out with some supplies and a dream. @earthcosplay and @watercosplay present a panel about making and altering costumes.
Listen to My Song: An Introduction to Symphogear
2:30p to 3:30p
From 2012 to 2019 and and beyond, Symphogear dazzled audiences in Japan with its unique blend of Magical girl tropes, Idol pop, dynamic animation, and dramatic storytelling. It’s fandom is still going strong, yet went ignored when it started streaming in America, but thanks its small but devoted fanbase in the west, and the power of Social media, Symphogear has slowly but surely started capturing the hearts of fans here in the west. Learn the story of Symphogear, its creation, how it blew up in popularity in Japan, why it got so much acclaim, and ultimately: Why you should watch Symphogear!
Getting your friends & family into anime: The Do’s and Don’ts
5:30p to 6:30p
Do you love the medium of anime and want to introduce it to your friends and family but don’t know where to start? Join Otaku Nate as he tells you what to do to introduce your loved ones to the world of anime/manga, and more importantly…what NOT to do!
Panel Room 2B – CB 216
Genshin Impact Jeopardy
11:00a to 12:00p
Well versed in the lore? Maybe you know all about the gameplay mechanics? Or an expert in exploration? We invite all Travelers to come test their Genshin Impact knowledge to see just how much you really know about the game!
What’s it about: A Jeopardy styled game show that has categories and questions revolving around the game Genshin Impact. Some category topics would include lore based questions about the characters and world, gameplay, guess the song, identify the location of where an in-game screenshot was taken, guessing character voice lines. As for how it will play out, we will divide the room into two sides and then pick volunteers from the crowd to answer the question based on which team’s turn it is. We will also offer Genshin themed stickers for all those who come to participate/watch.
Anime Jeopardy the Third!
12:30p to 1:15p
Do you like anime? Do you like anime SO MUCH that you’re willing to answer questions about it? What if I told you there were prizes involved? Interested yet? If yes, then Heavens to Murgatroyd, this is the panel for you! This game plays much the same as Jeopardy, except I, your host, will not be allowed to trot out my Alex Trebek impersonation. I learned my lesson from the last lawsuit.
Teaching with Anime: Creating an Animated Learning Experience
2:00p to 3:00p
Anime is certainly entertaining, but it can be educational as well, and an effective tool for educators to create dynamic lesson plans and classroom experiences. While a lot of the subject matter of anime is make-believe, there are many that have active lessons built in. Whether referring to anime as cultural artifacts or focusing on the more universal themes that emerge in anime, incorporating pop culture materials such as anime, as teaching tools can be attractive to students, and creates a fun learning environment. Traditional teaching methodology is based on textbooks, tests, and quizzes, and tends to be teacher-dominated, where teachers are the sole source of content, and students are passive receivers of that content. But the modern classroom needs to be more interactive, multimodal, and learner-focused.
This workshop is, in part, a template for educators to use in their own classrooms. Additionally, parts of the workshop are modular so different parts of it are interchangeable to fit different lesson plans or subjects. Educators in all subject areas can examine and demonstrate their respective subjects through anime, and create an engaging classroom experience for their students. During the first part of the workshop, I will screen 5-7 short clips (depending on time and ongoing discussions) from different series such as Dr. Stone, Spice and Wolf, Blue Period and show how those clips can be used to teach classroom lessons. Each clip will be for a different subject. During the second part of the workshop, we will discuss potential structured classroom lesson plan ideas.
This workshop is targeted to teachers and other anime fans who want to look at anime in a more in-depth, multidimensional way.
Wish You Were Queer: Anime Pairs that Could be Canon
3:30p to 4:30p
While every fan has their favorite ships, not all ships are created equal. This panel will look at fan-favorite ships, like Gojo/Geto and Marcille/Falin to analyze evidence from the anime that supports their ship. We’ll look at how they met, the dynamics of their interactions, and more that shows how they could be queer. It will even include some clips from the anime that showcase their relationships, and could also be a fun introduction to queer-aligned pairs in anime.
Anime Theater Productions 101
5:00p to 6:00p
If you didn’t know that anime like My Hero Academia, Death Note, and Haikyuu!! have outstanding stage productions, then this is for you! We’ll introduce you to a range of stageplays and musicals adapted from anime of all genres. You’ll learn what arcs the show covers, some fun facts about the production, and the top three reasons to watch each one. Plus, you’ll get to watch a sample of each show and even learn where you can watch them!
Panel Room 2C – CB 204
Danmei 101: Introduction to Boys’ Love
11:00a to 12:00p
Curious about Danmei but don’t know where to start? Join us for Danmei 101, an engaging introduction to the world of Boys’ Love in Chinese media, and discover what makes this genre so special! We will introduce you to some popular books and some underrated books while connecting with fans!
Wig Styling with a Licensed Cosmetologist
12:30p to 1:30p
Teaching wig styling techniques from the POV of a licensed cosmetologist
Gunpla 101: History and Joy of Model Kits
2:00p to 3:00p
Come join our presenter for a brief history of model kits, their popularity in Japan and the US, and the amazing creativity possible within the hobby! We will be exploring the history of Japanese toy companies and model kits, the current companies in Japan, the franchises synonymous with models, and some art appreciation for the high-level competitions in the world of Gunpla.
Gunpla Building: SD Model Kits
3:30p to 5:00p
Newbies and gunotas – come join us for a kit building session! SD Chibi Gundam kits will be provided to get you started on the hobby, or bring your own! Kits will also be available to purchase from our Vendor Hall!
Draw Pokemon from Memory
5:30p to 6:30p
Test your memory and your art skills in a fun game of drawing Pokemon from memory! Prior knowledge is not needed to play; we’ll have rounds for both the long-time fans and those who only know Pikachu!
Panel Room 2D – CB 203
Vtuber 101
10:30a to 11:30a
Do you know what a Vtuber is? Ever heard of Hololive, VShojo, or some other vtuber agencies or talents? What the heck is Live2D, and what is a Fugi?
Join WildSpice from the agency OshiLinkEN as we dive into the exciting world of vtubing! We’ll cover the basics of what vtubing is all about, how to get started without spending a fortune, and tips for connecting with other vtubers for awesome collabs. Plus, I’ll share my own experience in the community!
Vtuber Ask Me Anything
12:00p to 1:30p
This is a Q&A panel about vtubing/vtubers.
Have questions about vtubing or content creation? Want to talk to a vtuber? Wondering how we are busting out of the walls to talk to you?! Come join WildSpice who is a member of OshiLink (a vtuber agency) and I’ll answer your questions! Have chaotic questions? Even better!
It’s Hero Time! The History of PreCure
2:00p to 3:00p
A defining show of the Magical Girl genre is PreCure! Join abbyonthemoon as they take a deep dive of this beloved Magical Girl series!
Running with Toast: Improv Workshop
3:30p to 4:30p
Come join us as we explore the art of anime and improvisational comedy. All are welcome to play. There will be fun games that incorporate some of what you see in “Whose line is it anyway”. Many of the games will be anime theme versions of classic games such as guessing games or commentary games.