Frequently Asked Questions

What is AniMinneapolis?
AniMinneapolis is a three-day event meant for people who are fans of Japanese animation, video games, or Japanese culture. Geeks and nerds of many varieties will feel at home with the huge multitude of events and panels we run throughout the weekend. Events include video game tournaments, anime showings, a costume contest, a few different dance events, autograph sessions with voice actors, Japanese cultural events and much more. We expect over 5,000+ people to join us.

Where will AniMinneapolis be?
AniMinneapolis is held at the Hyatt Regency in downtown Minneapolis.

Registration Questions

How much does attending AniMinneapolis cost?
Weekend registration is cheaper the earlier you register. If you register several months before the convention, you'll save $10 to $20 with discounted pre-registration. Go to the registration page to register early and save the most money.

When should I pre-register?
The sooner you register, the lower the admission price you pay. Online pre-registration is a very easy and quick way to pay. Many people register as early as possible to save as much as they can, but some also wait until they can be certain they know that they are able to attend the convention. We recommend registering as early as you can, because we may eventually cap attendance.

What is a badge?
A badge is a plastic/paper card with your name and registration ticket number that lets you into convention events. You can pick up this badge, with a lanyard to wear it, at the registration desk when you get to the convention.

What should my badge name be?
Many people choose their character names, or use their real names. Some people choose to use just their first names. Please limit your badge name to less than 20 characters. Space for us to print your name on the badge is limited.

What do I need to pick up my badge?
We need to verify your identity, so that nobody else can pick up your badge. A government ID, driver's license, or school ID would work fine to verify your identity. If you do not have an ID, we also send out an email confirmation, and that confirmation email will also work. We will have troubleshooting staff at our registration desk at the convention to assist you if you need help.

Can someone else pick up my badge?
To ensure that your badge gets to you, we ask that you pick up your badge in person. If you have a need for special arrangements, please ask staff at the registration desk.

Will badges be mailed, or picked up at the door?
Your convention badge can be picked up on the day of the convention. Wearing your convention badge gets you access to all convention events.

Do I need a badge to attend the convention?
Badges are an important way for AniMinneapolis to track the attendance of the convention, and the information you provide is very important in case of emergencies. Individuals that come to the convention area ('ghosts') without the intention of purchasing a badge may be asked to leave the hotel, regardless of whether or not they are breaking any additional rules. Individuals who have not purchased a badge and are found in convention space may be ejected and banned from the hotel. We do make exceptions for parents who are occasionally checking up on their older children (parents of children under 13 must purchase a badge and remain with their child throughout the convention). If you have an individual accompanying you to the hotel, such as an older parent or other guardian, who is not also attending the convention, you are welcome to have them stop in Con Ops with any questions.

Cosplay and Costume Questions

Should I wear a costume to the convention?
Absolutely, AniMinneapolis strongly encourages costumes, and costumed roleplay. Dressing like your favorite character is one of the most fun parts about attending the convention.

What are the rules on props and weapons?
Please visit our weapons and large props policy.

Where can I get ideas for costumes?
There are many great places for ideas - usually starting with your favorite character or anime. There are also plenty of places to ask for ideas too!

When should I wear my costume?
Anytime! There will be attendees wearing costumes as early as Friday morning through Sunday night. You don't have to wear anything special at all times - normal clothes are fine too. There are a lot of fun things going on at the convention, and sometimes it's easier to do more if you're wearing regular clothes.

What can I get for dressing up in a costume?
We sometimes give out random prizes in the hallways to amazing looking costumes, but we also look for individuals personifying their represented characters for costume contest awards. You can also participate in our big Grand Cosplay Contest to compete for Best Performance, Best Costume, or Best in Show prizes.

What is Cosplay?
Cosplay is short for costume-roleplay. Wearing a costume is fun - acting like a character is even more fun.

Parents Questions

How old do my children need to be to attend?
Anyone under 13 years of age needs to be accompanied by a parent or guardian at all times - in most cases the parent must pay the registration fee as well. We ask that parents of minors who are 13 or older to still ensure that their children are under the supervision of a responsible adult in case of emergency. Our convention is family friendly, and we welcome attendees of all ages.

What kinds of things happen at the convention?
Most attendees go to the convention to meet the individuals who provide the voices for some of their favorite characters. These voice actors usually sign DVDs and things related to their shows. Other attendees come to watch anime shows, play video games, or compete in our costume contest for prizes (DVDs and stuff like that).

General Questions

How big will AniMinneapolis be?
We have thousands of people attending every year! The first year had about 1200 attendees (yes, over a thousand people!), and since we've got thousands more.

Why go to AniMinneapolis when there are other cons nearby?
We think you should go to every convention that you can get to... but we realize that's not possible for everyone. AniMinneapolis is very inexpensive to attend, so you can come have fun at our convention and still enjoy all the other cons! We have amazing guests, amazing events, and you will have a lot of fun.

How can I ask a question?
You can contact us from our website.

How can I help?
We have several areas that you can help in. You can join staff, volunteer at the convention, offer to bring equipment, etc. Contact us to ask how you can help.