Convention FAQ

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 non-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 de Montréal in downtown Montréal. It is located at the Métro Place D'Armes on the Orange Line. Street parking is $3.75/hour (payable 2-3 hours at a time, renewable only at the end of the period, more information can be found on the Stationnement de Montreal’s website). The Palais des congrès de Montréal 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: see live shows such as concerts, the masquerade or World Cosplay summit, play video and board games, attend panels, participate in workshops or contests, watch anime or shop in the Exhibition Hall. 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?

Anyone is welcome to attend, including friends and family, as long as they are registered!

6. Is this an all-age convention?

Yes, it is. Various activities are available for new and veteran otakus, including programming for the younger fans!
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. Are there any COVID-19 measures?

For details regarding the measures we take to promote a safe experience for everyone, please refer to our COVID-19 policy.

8. I have questions regarding registration. Where can I find more information?

For all questions regarding registration, please refer to our registration policy and our registration FAQ. If you cannot find the information you are looking for, you may also contact registration at registration@otakuthon.com.

9. Do we have to buy separate tickets for events like the Masquerade or concerts?

Paid activities such as concerts are indicated by the sale of extras at the time of registration. Unless otherwise indicated, all other events are open with your badge but may be limited due to seating capacity constraints (seating is on a first-come, first-served basis).

10. 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!

11. 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.

12. 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.

13. Is there a bag or coat check at Otakuthon?

The Palais des congrès de Montréal offers a coat check service. Otakuthon's official hotels will have a coat and bag check as well for their guests.

14. 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 de Montréal.

15. Can I use a remote device such as a drone in the Palais des congrès de Montréal?

Drones are prohibited inside the Palais des congrès de Montréal, 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!

16. Do you accept companion cards (CAL, Access 2, etc.)?

Yes! In order to obtain a free badge for the accompanying party, the accompanied person needs to have their own badge (available online beforehand or directly at the convention) and come to the registration express line with their support person and their companion card.