Anime Los Angeles in Long Beach

Animé Los Angeles returns to the Long Beach Convention & Entertainment Center for another celebration of the art, culture and fun of Japanese animation. The community-focused convention, which takes place from January 8-11, 2026, is well loved for its manageable size, comfortable atmosphere and plenty of contests, cosplay and all aspects of fandom. Convention doors open at 9 AM each day. Here are a few highlights that make Animé Los Angeles such a great draw.

CREDIT: Bryan Mier

VENDORS AND DEALERS

The Long Beach Convention Center’s (300 E. Ocean Blvd) main hall will open for Animé Los Angeles 21 each morning at 10 AM and stay open until 7 PM, except Sunday, when it will close at 5 PM. Featuring an incredible array of dealers and vendors, the hall will feature those showing and selling artwork, books, costumes, figurines, food and lots more. Artist Alley features more than 200 artists promoting their art and themselves, offering attendees a chance to discover a new artist to follow. Attendees will also hear from numerous Guests of Honor including animator and director Hiroshi Nagahama, animator Mamoru Yokota, and manga artist and animator Tsukasa Kotobuki. Voice actor Chris Tergliafera and dubbing/audio experts Mary and Les Claypool will also make appearances, speak on panels, and sign autographs.

CREDIT: Bryan Mier

COSPLAY

This year will feature numerous contests and showcases, including the Hall Cosplay Contest. Attendees need only wear their creations and either be seen by a roaming judge or present themselves to a featured judge who will review costumes. Cosplay Chess allows you to act as a lifesize chess piece on a giant chess board. There will be numerous cosplay gatherings focused on specific shows, from Pokemon to K-Pop Demon Hunters. The Masquerade takes place Jan. 10 at 7 PM in the Terrace Theater, featuring cosplay competitors from across the country putting on master class performances for attendees to enjoy.

CREDIT: Bryan Mier

AKIHABARA SEASIDE

As in years past, the Convention Center’s Seaside Meeting Rooms will transform into Akihabara Seaside, offering all the amenities of the Seaside space with the addition of features like the E-Gaming Room, Manga Lounge, Table Top Gaming spot, as well as a costume repair station. If you are just looking for a place to relax, there’s plenty of space throughout Akihabara Seaside for attendees to congregate, hang or chill out.

SONG AND DANCE

There will be all manner of music-related events offered throughout the convention including a dedicated Karaoke space in the Interactive Programming Room with all welcome to perform and enjoy. There will be nightly parties and dances with DJs providing plenty of music to move to. A formal ball will be held on Thursday evening from 7 to 11 PM, with awards presented for cosplay, dancing, and enthusiasm. Plus, don't miss the Saturday concert series, Haus of Cosplay Drag Extravaganza, Fashion Show, and ALA's Next Top Star competition! For full details, check out the schedule.

CREDIT: Bryan Mier

GET THE APP

With so much to do, see and sing, it’s a good idea to get yourself a good guide. Animé Los Angeles 20 offers a mobile app via the Guidebook App allowing you to use your phone to stay up to date with all manner of programming, events, vendors, guest speakers and so much more.

To download the app simply click here and start making plans for a great Animé Los Angeles 21!

About the Author

Claire Atkinson

Claire Atkinson is a Southern California native who has lived in Long Beach for over 20 years. She spends her free time visiting local parks, farmers markets, and museums, and loves learning about Long Beach history and culture.