Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is Otakuthon?
Otakuthon is Quebec’s largest fan-run festival promoting Japanese animation (anime), Japanese graphic novels (manga), related gaming and Japanese pop-culture. We are a not-for-profit organization that is a part of the Otakuthon Cultural Society.

2. Who are Otakuthon's mascots?
Otakuthon's first mascot was Yurika. She was later joined by her brother Yatsumi, her cousin Yuki, and her friend Yumi. Learn more about them here!

3. Where is the convention located and how do you get there?
The convention will be held at the Palais des Congrès in downtown Montréal. It is located at the Métro Place D'Armes on the Orange Line. Street parking is 3$/hour (payable 2-3 hours at a time, renewable only at the end of the period) and is in force 9am – 9pm on Friday and 9am – 6pm on Saturday and Sunday. The Palais and our official hotels also offer parking services.

4. What is there to do at Otakuthon?
There's so much to do that it's hard to list everything! Some of the things you can do are: watch anime, attend the World Cosplay Summit, the masquerade and concerts, play video and roleplaying games, attend panels, and participate in workshops or contests. However, the most important thing of all is that Otakuthon brings together a large number of people who are passionate about Japan's culture, anime, manga, and gaming. You might find someone who loves the same anime series you do!

5. Who is allowed to come to Otakuthon?
Otakuthon is open to the general public. Everyone is welcome to attend, including friends and family!

6. Is this an all-age convention?
Yes, it is, however there will be some panels, screenings and events that are intended for a mature audience and will require proof of age before they can be accessed.

7. Can I still pre-register for the convention?
Pre-registration will be open until July 31, 2017. After this period, you can still register at the convention on August 4, 2017 through August 6, 2017.

8. Now that I've pre-registered, where and when do I get my badge?
You can pick up your badge in person during registration hours in the registration area. Please find the Registration Policies here.

9. What do I need to pick up my badge?
Please bring a copy of your registration confirmation (printed or digital copy) with a valid photo ID.

10. Is there any other way to get my badge? Can you send it via mail?
No. Badges must be picked up in person. We cannot send badges by mail. Sorry.

11. We registered as a group. Can we send someone to collect all the badges?
No. Badges purchased as a group must be picked up by each person individually.

12. Are you offering daily rates this year?
Yes, we are, but we recommend purchasing a weekend badge as it represents the best value.

13. Do we have to buy separate tickets for events like the Masquerade or the concert?
Paying activities such as concerts are indicated by the sale of tickets at the time of registration. Unless otherwise indicated, all other events are free with your badge but may be limited due to seating capacity constraints (seating is on a first-come, first-served basis).

14. I'm not going to be able to come to the convention. Can I cancel my registration?
Please refer to our Registration Policies.

15. Do I have to wear a costume? Am I allowed to wear a costume?
Cosplaying (short for "costume play"), or dressing up and/or acting as a character is a very popular event at most anime cons. Many people prefer going to anime conventions without dressing up and wearing a costume is NOT mandatory, but it can be really fun to pose as your favourite anime character. For those who want to cosplay, come and show off your costume!

16. Who can I dress up as?
You can dress up as anyone you want to. Most people dress up as characters from anime or manga series, but there are also creative cosplays as well.

17. What am I allowed to use for my costume?
All costumes must conform to Otakuthon’s weapon policy. If you are unsure if your costume follows the policy, contact the Otakuthon Weapons Master at weapons@otakuthon.com.

18. Is there a bag or coat check at Otakuthon?
The convention will have a bag check for its attendees. Otakuthon's official hotels will have a coat and bag check as well for their guests.

19. Are there any places to eat at Otakuthon?
The Cosplay Cafe, located on the 7th floor, will be selling Japanese dishes and drinks during the festival. The Chibi Cafe, a snack bar located on the second floor, will also let you get a snack or a meal in the Exhibition Hall. Also, there are also more than 300 restaurants and cafés at less than a kilometre from the Palais des Congrès.

20. Can I use a remote device such as a drone in the Palais des congrès?
Drones are prohibited inside the Palais des congrès, like any remote controlled object that could hurt someone! For security reasons, always be aware of the crowd around you, even with your selfie-stick!

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