It’s almost time for another great year of Animazement. We know you’re busy with con prep, so we’ve compiled here all the new information you’ll need to know to be ready for Animazement 2025!
Changes to Autograph Policies
We’ll start with something that’s been top of mind for a lot of you this year. We have made a few changes to our autograph policies.
Starting in 2025, Funko Pop figures are no longer allowed in autograph sessions with our Japanese guests.
Additionally, all autographs given at autograph sessions will be written with Japanese pens/markers provided at the table. Attendees will no longer be able to request autographs using their own pens.
Individual guests also dictate their own autograph restrictions, and these will differ on a guest by guest basis. The best way to find out what things your favorite guest will sign is to go to our GUESTS page and click on the guest’s photo to view their bio. Specific autograph information is also available in the guest bios in our Guidebook app.
New Locations
Most of our locations have stayed the same this year (hooray for consistency!), but there have been a few changes, so take note!
Formal Dance
Our Friday Night Formal Dance is moving inside again! This year get ready to dance the night away downstairs in Exhibit Hall C. However, because we’ve moved inside, the formal will be subject to the same bag size restrictions as our late night dances. No bags larger than a fanny pack will be allowed inside, so plan ahead!
Shamisen Workshops and Sake Tastings
Our special sessions have moved! This year, they will be hosted in room 304. If you’re interested in attending one of these sessions you can reserve your seat online. A very limited number of tickets will be available at the door. SPECIAL EVENTS
Animazement Ribbon Game Table
Our Ribbon Game table has moved downstairs to the Artists’ Alley. Make sure to stop by and learn about how to collect all the best ribbons! They’ll be right there as you come down the escalator. Keep in mind, the table will only be open during the hours that Artists’ Alley is open, so plan accordingly.
New and Returning Events
Project Cosplay
We’re technically cheating here. Project Cosplay isn’t brand new, but it’s back after a long hiatus! This event is sure to challenge even the most skilled cosplayer. Can you put together a cosplay from scratch in just an hour? Join Jez Roth on Saturday at 12:30pm and test your skills against your fellow cosplayers. Find out more HERE!
The Anime Home Video Museum
The Anime Home Video Museum is a showcase of anime home video history spanning over 40 years and over a dozen different release formats both analog and digital. From tapes, to discs, to handheld formats, and more, the Museum will have working video players and numerous rare anime releases from both the US and Japan to showcase throughout the weekend. Come learn about and experience the various ways anime has reached audiences in this unique exhibit.
The Museum will be located at the front of Artists Alley (Exhibit Hall A) so make sure to stop by!
Maid Cafe Hiatus
We’re sad to say that our AniManor Maid Cafe is on a brief hiatus. We will miss you this year, but we look forward to serving you again in 2026!
Accessibility Additions
Starting in 2025, we’ve partnered with NC Mobility Rentals to offer access to powered and non-powered wheelchairs for a fee. They’ll deliver directly to area hotels for your convenience. Please call (800) 674-9349 for pricing or to arrange delivery.
The RCC does still offer free wheelchairs for use upon request, but they are first come first served and supplies are limited. We cannot guarantee one will be available at all times.
And don’t forget all of the other accessibility services we offer. Feel free to stop by the table at any time!
Locker Rentals
Are you tired of carrying around all those goodies you got in the Dealers’ Room? Pop Up Lockers will be on-site all weekend in Exhibit Hall C so you can store your swag, cosplay gear, snacks, or anything else you don’t want to carry around all day. You can rent a locker for a single day, or even reserve one for the whole weekend! Want to guarantee your space? Full weekend rentals are available to buy in advance!
There’s so much to do, you’ll want to start planning now! And the best way to do that is to download our Guidebook app! There you’ll find the full, up to date schedule, interactive maps, and even some information on events going on downtown just for us! Scan the QR code below, or follow this link and click download.
