Popular anime convention Ohayocon coming to SW Ohio

An anime convention called Ohayacon will come to Dayton the last day of January and first couple days of February. In this photo a woman is dressed in cosplay as a anime character. iSTOCK/CONTRIBUTED

Credit: Getty Images

Credit: Getty Images

An anime convention called Ohayacon will come to Dayton the last day of January and first couple days of February. In this photo a woman is dressed in cosplay as a anime character. iSTOCK/CONTRIBUTED
Lifestyles
By Alex Cutler
Dec 30, 2024
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Ohayocon has stood as one of the state’s largest anime conventions since its creation in 2001. Soon, the event turns 25 and will take place Jan. 31 to Feb. 2 in a new location — the Dayton Convention Center.

“We ... have great changes in the works including a brand new senior leadership team, that will bring a fresh and fun perspective to the convention,” said new Convention Director Stephen “Fluffy” Baker in an interview for Anime News Network. “Along with the change of location to Dayton, which will benefit the attendees by reducing costs across the board, we are thrilled to bring a new experience for those who look forward to this conference yearly.”

ExploreMore info: Things to do in January: Shows on local stages, wedding expos, music events and more

While the location may be different than in times past, the convention will still bring popular names from the anime industry. This includes Shinichi Watanabe, also known as Nabeshin, who is famous for directing episodes of “Tenchi Muyo! GXP” and “Excel Saga.”

Multiple anime voice actors will also be in attendance. These include “My Hero Academia” actor Jay Hickman and Karlii Hoch, the English voice of Harley Quinn in “Suicide Squad Isekai.”

Ohayocon attendees are encouraged to dress as their favorite characters, with the event set to host two cosplay contests. The first, known as the Craftsmanship Contest, will judge entrants based on the quality of the costume. Contestants can enter a cosplay based on a famous character, an original design or one based on Ohayocon’s mascot, Nurse Lindsay.

The other competition is known as the Performance Contest. Similar to a talent show, contestants will either perform a skit or musical act. Entrants can also pre-record their routine before the convention.

Those interested in participating can view the full rules and enter the contests on Ohayocon’s website.

The convention will also host gaming tournaments, scavenger hunts, workshops and more.

Multiple vendors can be found in the event’s Artist Alley area, selling anime merchandise and media. The hall will be open 1-7 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m.-4 p.m. Sunday.

How to go

What: Ohayocon 2025

When: Jan. 31- Feb. 2

Location: Dayton Convention Center: 22 E. Fifth St., Dayton

More info: ohayocon.online

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About the Author

Alex Cutler is a graduate of Sinclair Community college, with degrees in Communication and Multimedia Journalism. Alex looks to continue his education and career in the near future.