About Otakuthon
Otakuthon is an event that celebrates the cultural phenomenon known as anime (Japanese animation) and manga. Since 2008, the event has been held every summer at the Palais des congrès.
The convention remains the second-largest anime event in Canada. Proud of its Quebec origins, Otakuthon strives to be a fully bilingual convention (French and English) since its beginnings.
Since its first edition in 2006, Otakuthon has attracted thousands of participants from Quebec and abroad as well as high-profile guests, artists and exhibitors from all corners of the world.
Every summer, the convention offers a wide range of activities from video gaming to the ever-popular Masquerade (costume skit show).
Otakuthon has become an opportunity for attendees to enjoy and learn about our passion for Japanese culture, both modern and traditional.
History
2006: The first edition of Otakuthon was held at Concordia University, with free registration. The event attracted more than 1,800 people.
2008: Otakuthon was held for the first time at the Palais des congrès de Montréal. This third edition welcomed more than 3,200 people.
2012: During the 6th edition of the convention, total attendance exceeded 10,000 participants.
2014: The World Cosplay Summit arrived at Otakuthon. This is a world-class cosplay competition where winners from each country are invited to attend the finals held annually in Japan.
2015: Convention length increased from 2.5 days to 3 full days. Thursday badge pick-up opens earlier. Attendance figures reach over 20,000.
2018: Otakuthon receives an honourable mention from the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Japan. This certification recognizes Otakuthon's work in promoting cultural exchange between Japan and Canada as well as friendly relations between Japan and other countries.
2019: The staff of Otakuthon 2019 would like to thank all 25,533 of you for attending and making our 14th edition a great success!
2020 and 2021: We have worked tirelessly during the past two years to provide our dear otaku community with virtual events despite the pandemic.
2022: Otakuthon's return to the Palais des congrès de Montréal was spectacular, with a record 29,409 attendees.
2023: Otakuthon's 18th edition was host to an incredible 35,309 attendees.
