Otafest, Calgary’s annual anime festival, is coming back bigger than ever for its 2020 event.
The three-day, all-ages festival will bring the best in Japanese animation to Calgary’s Telus Convention Centre, including cosplay contests, community-run panels, voice actors, and more.
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This year’s edition includes a partnership with the Calgary Marriott Downtown Hotel, which will add nearly 10,000 additional sq. ft. of event space, according to a release from organizers.
Other additions for the 2020 festival includes a rooftop patio at the Marriott, a new performance stage, rooms for late-night programming and educational events, a costume repair station, and a casual lounge.
“Expanding Otafest’s programming offerings through this expansion has been a huge effort from our team, and a key part of our programming goals,” said Vern Townsend, Otafest Vice-Chair of Experiences, in the release.
“We’re really excited to finally be able to share our growth and development with our attendees and the community.”
The festival will run from Friday, May 15 to Sunday, May 17, and passes are already available for single-day admission starting at $35 and weekend passes beginning at $55.
“Building community is an important part of Otafest’s mandate, and the new expansion will provide informal social spaces for people to meet and connect over shared interests,” said Amy Pratt, Otafest Board of Directors, in the release.
“We’re especially excited to be able to highlight local artists and dance groups through showcase events with our new Aurora Stage.”
Guest appearances will include Dara Def, Sonia Blade, Fighting Dreamers Productions, Fakku, Erica Lindbeck, Mica Burton, Billy Kametz, and Josh Grelle — plus many more that have not yet been announced.
Calgary Otafest 2020
When: Friday, May 15 to Sunday, May 17, 2020
Time: A full schedule will become available here on April 15
Where: Telus Convention Centre – 120 9th Avenue SE, Calgary
Calgary Marriott Downtown Hotel — 110 9 Avenue SE, Calgary
Tickets: Available online or at the door, starting at $35 for single day and $55 for weekend pass
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