Updated October 2nd, 2026
One of the best parts of being an anime fan is that there’s almost always another event, convention, or adventure around the corner. From convention halls packed with cosplay to long-planned trips tied to fandom, these are the events currently on the horizon for The Casual Otaku.
Many of these will eventually turn into full posts here on the blog—recaps, cosplay photos, travel stories, and the occasional chaotic convention moment that probably seemed like a good idea at the time.
Japan Trip (October–November)
📍 Kimitsu, Numazu, Tokyo and surrounding areas, Nagoya
This long-planned trip blends travel, culture, fandom, and a few personal bucket-list experiences and idol-based emotional damage in Nagoya (see this post). The itinerary includes time in Tokyo along with visits to locations tied to anime culture and there will almost certainly be a few anime pilgrimage stops along the way, because when you’re in Japan, it would be irresponsible not to do so as an anime fan. Expect multiple posts related to this trip because one post is not enough for this trip with all the different experiences, both planned and unplanned. Also, you wouldn’t want to read a War and Peace sized novel as much as I wouldn’t want to write one (and spreading it out over weeks and months will lessen the inevitable post trip blues).
Anime Los Angeles
📍 Long Beach, California
🔗 https://animelosangeles.org/
Anime Los Angeles over the years has become one of my favorite conventions for a variety of reasons. It is one convention I’ve been attending almost as long as AX and 2027 will be my third year working as staff for the con. ALA is a great way to kick off the convention season as the event strikes a nice balance between large convention energy and a relaxed community vibe. Between cosplay gatherings, panels, ribbons and meeting up with friends, it’s always a fun way to start the year.
Katsucon
📍 National Harbor, Maryland
Katsucon is famous for hosting one of the most visually impressive cosplay scenes in the country, thanks largely to the stunning Gaylord National Harbor atrium where many photo shoots take place. If everything lines up as planned, this trip will also include some time exploring Washington, D.C. while I’m on the East Coast. If the cards line up and this convention is able to happen, expect probably multiple posts (though nowhere near the amount of posts Japan will generate).
More Adventures Ahead
The events listed above are what’s currently on the calendar whether set in stone or to be determined, but in fandom circles there’s always the chance of something unexpected popping up; another convention, a concert announcement, or a last-minute event that’s too interesting to pass up. If any of these events turn into memorable stories or complete chaos, you’ll probably see them show up here on the blog.