Otafest 2025: Full Schedule

The schedule is subject to update- remember to check back often!
RATING DESCRIPTIONS: Click here.
ROOM HOURS: Click here.

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9:00am MDT

Sketch Drive Open

Friday May 16, 2025 9:00am - 6:00pm MDT

Hall CDE (Exhibitor Hall) Pre-function

Have you ever wanted to know how you would look as a cat? a ninja? a ninja cat? Do you wonder what you and your bestie would look like as anime characters or fantasize about finally getting a picture of your D&D character to show off at the next session? Sketch Drive, one of Otafest's longest-running traditions (and best kept secrets) is where these ideas come to life!

Choose your favourite style from our team of talented artists and get your dream portrait sketched for a good cause. Half the cost of the sketch will go directly to the artist, with the rest going to Otafest's chosen charity so you're supporting a local artist and giving back to the community with a single purchase!

Friday May 16, 2025 9:00am - 6:00pm MDT
Hall CDE (Exhibitor Hall) Pre-function

Official Otafest Content

Age Rating AP
Tags Charity, Interactive

10:00am MDT

Case Closed / Detective Conan 101

Friday May 16, 2025 10:00am - 11:00am MDT

Glen 203 / 204

Regardless if it's Jimmy or Shinichi you know, join us to learn about one of the longest running anime series with more than 1000+ episodes!

Speakers

Tina Y.

Friday May 16, 2025 10:00am - 11:00am MDT
Glen 203 / 204

Community Content

Age Rating AP
Tags Educational

10:00am MDT

Con-Survival 101

Friday May 16, 2025 10:00am - 11:00am MDT

Telus 103

Going to your first con? Feeling overwhelmed with everything? Need a refresher on what to do? Come together to learn how to have the best con experience for you and others.

Speakers

Nathan Y.

Friday May 16, 2025 10:00am - 11:00am MDT
Telus 103

Community Content

Age Rating AP
Tags Educational

10:00am MDT

Idol Random Dance

Friday May 16, 2025 10:00am - 11:00am MDT

Outdoor Stage

Love Idols? Want to dance along to some of your favourite dances? Come to Idol Random Dance to get your groove on and show your stuff!

Speakers

Noa B.

Friday May 16, 2025 10:00am - 11:00am MDT
Outdoor Stage

Official Otafest Content

Age Rating AP
Tags Interactive, Live Performance

10:00am MDT

Learn to Play! Beyblade X

Friday May 16, 2025 10:00am - 11:30am MDT

Telus 101 / 102

A session in learning how scoring works in Beyblade X

Speakers

Zanki

Friday May 16, 2025 10:00am - 11:30am MDT
Telus 101 / 102

Community Content

Age Rating AP
Tags Educational

10:00am MDT

Alejandro Saab @ Autograph Corner

Friday May 16, 2025 10:00am - 11:30am MDT

Hall CDE (Exhibitor Hall)

Get Alejandro Saab's autograph at the Autograph Corner in the Exhibitor's Hall.

Speakers

Alejandro Saab

Alejandro Saab is a professional voice actor as well as content creator known as either KaggyFilms or CyYuVtuber. And from time to time will sing song covers under the name We.BHe’s best known for voicing characters such as Cyno in Genshin Impact, Leon in Pokémon Journeys, Yuri... Read More →

Friday May 16, 2025 10:00am - 11:30am MDT
Hall CDE (Exhibitor Hall)

Guest Content

Age Rating AP
Tags Autographs

10:00am MDT

Allegra Clark @ Autograph Corner

Friday May 16, 2025 10:00am - 11:30am MDT

Hall CDE (Exhibitor Hall)

Get Allegra Clark's autograph at the Autograph Corner in the Exhibitor's Hall.

Speakers

Allegra Clark

Allegra Clark is a trilingual actor and voiceover artist originally from New York City. After spending a childhood doing commercials and school plays in both French and English, Allegra studied theatre and Italian literature at Northwestern University. She is most known for voicing... Read More →

Friday May 16, 2025 10:00am - 11:30am MDT
Hall CDE (Exhibitor Hall)

Guest Content

Age Rating AP
Tags Autographs

10:00am MDT

Kaiji Tang @ Autograph Corner

Friday May 16, 2025 10:00am - 11:30am MDT

Hall CDE (Exhibitor Hall)

Get Kaiji Tang's autograph at the Autograph Corner in the Exhibitor's Hall.

Speakers

Kaiji Tang

An avid lover of gaming and all things food-related, Kaiji Tang has been working as a voice actor in Los Angeles CA since 2007.In the world of video games, he has done such roles as Ichiban Kasuga (Yakuza: Like a Dragon), Eustace (Granblue Fantasy: Versus), Faust (Guilty Gear), Munehisa... Read More →

Friday May 16, 2025 10:00am - 11:30am MDT
Hall CDE (Exhibitor Hall)

Guest Content

Age Rating AP
Tags Autographs

10:00am MDT

Endless ERA Presents: GAS GAS GAS Time Trial Competition Day 1

Friday May 16, 2025 10:00am - 11:30am MDT

Macleod A1 (Otafest Arcade)

Friday May 16, 2025 10:00am - 11:30am MDT
Macleod A1 (Otafest Arcade)

Official Otafest Content, Otafest Arcade

Age Rating AP
Tags Video Games

10:00am MDT

Iron Cosplay

Friday May 16, 2025 10:00am - 11:30am MDT

Glen 206

Do you think you have the (iron) will for cosplay? Come prove it in this ultimate test of your cosplay resourcefulness! In this fun competition, team up and use the outrageous materials provided!

Speakers

Autumn D.

Friday May 16, 2025 10:00am - 11:30am MDT
Glen 206

Official Otafest Content

Age Rating AP
Tags Cosplay, Interactive

10:00am MDT

Card Games Free Play

Friday May 16, 2025 10:00am - 12:00pm MDT

Sunalta (Marriott)

Friday May 16, 2025 10:00am - 12:00pm MDT
Sunalta (Marriott)

Official Otafest Content, Otafest Arcade

Age Rating AP
Tags Card Games

10:00am MDT

Pokémon League

Friday May 16, 2025 10:00am - 6:00pm MDT

Kensington (Marriott)

For the last decade, the Otafest Pokémon League has provided a safe space for Pokémon fans to play against other fans and challenge the League for real-life badges and a chance at being crowned a Champion. We offer all sorts of Pokémon related activities and games for all ages with a variety of prizes!

Not only that, but Pokémon-related panels, mini games, events, a great community to join, and more also await you at the League!

Friday May 16, 2025 10:00am - 6:00pm MDT
Kensington (Marriott)

Official Otafest Content, Pokémon League

Age Rating AP
Tags Video Games

10:00am MDT

Board Games Free Play

Friday May 16, 2025 10:00am - 8:00pm MDT

Sunalta (Marriott)

Friday May 16, 2025 10:00am - 8:00pm MDT
Sunalta (Marriott)

Official Otafest Content, Otafest Arcade

Age Rating AP
Tags Board Games

10:00am MDT

Charity Auction Display

Friday May 16, 2025 10:00am - 8:00pm MDT

Mount Royal (Marriott)

A viewing room where you can check out the items that will be available during our Sunday charity auction.

Friday May 16, 2025 10:00am - 8:00pm MDT
Mount Royal (Marriott)

Official Otafest Content

Age Rating AP
Tags Charity

10:00am MDT

Gunpla Hangar

Friday May 16, 2025 10:00am - 8:00pm MDT

Acadia (Marriott)

Are you a fan of giant robots? Do you like to build model kits? Then come on down to the Otafest Gunpla Hangar in the Acadia Room of the Marriott. Feel free to come in and build an experience kit, a kit you picked up on the show floor, take in the gunpla and Gundam related panels, or just hang out and chat with fellow Gunpla builders and Gundam fans.

If you want to show off your stuff, enter the Gunpla Hangar Showcase contest! With various categories and prizes, you can compete at the level of your choice.

Friday May 16, 2025 10:00am - 8:00pm MDT
Acadia (Marriott)

Official Otafest Content, Gunpla Hangar

Age Rating AP
Tags Interactive

10:00am MDT

Gunpla Hangar - Showcase

Friday May 16, 2025 10:00am - 8:00pm MDT

Hillhurst (Marriott)

Friday May 16, 2025 10:00am - 8:00pm MDT
Hillhurst (Marriott)

Official Otafest Content, Gunpla Hangar

Age Rating AP
Tags Interactive

10:00am MDT

Manga Library

Friday May 16, 2025 10:00am - 8:00pm MDT

Ideation 2 / 3

Need a break from all the hustle & bustle of the festival? Maybe you just want to find a place to curl up with a good book? Well you're in luck. The Otafest Manga library is a comfy place for you to relax in a quiet space and pick up a book from our collection of manga and light novels.

Friday May 16, 2025 10:00am - 8:00pm MDT
Ideation 2 / 3

Official Otafest Content

Age Rating AP
Tags Interactive

10:30am MDT

Danny Phantom Cosplay Meetup

Friday May 16, 2025 10:30am - 11:30am MDT

Rooftop Patio (Marriott)

Meet with cosplayers and fans of Danny Phantom

Speakers

CJ

Friday May 16, 2025 10:30am - 11:30am MDT
Rooftop Patio (Marriott)

Community Content

Age Rating AP
Tags Cosplay, Meetup

10:30am MDT

Q&A with Joe Zieja

Friday May 16, 2025 10:30am - 11:30am MDT

Glen 201 / 202

Curious about how Joe got into voice acting? Or do you have a burning question about characters he voiced? Come join him in this one-hour panel to dive into your questions and discuss some of his most significant voice roles.

Speakers

Joe Zieja

Joe Zieja is a voice actor, author, and educator in Los Angeles. You’ve heard him in Genshin Impact (Wriothesley), Fire Emblem Three Houses (Claude Von Riegan), Persona 3 Reload (Kenji Tomochika), Starfield (Denis Averin), Just Cause 4 (Cesar), Star Fox Zero, The Battle Begins (Fox... Read More →

Friday May 16, 2025 10:30am - 11:30am MDT
Glen 201 / 202

Guest Content

Age Rating AP
Tags Interactive, Voice Actors

11:00am MDT

CONbini Open

Friday May 16, 2025 11:00am - 6:00pm MDT

Telus 110

Need a quick snack to keep your energy levels up? Conbini sells delicious Japanese-style treats available for purchase!

Onigiri (rice balls), Melon soda, coffee, tea, curry buns, and more, you'll be sure to find something you can shove your face into! Do you have a dietary restriction? We will do our best to to have options available for your safe consumption, because you deserve to have delicious Japanese food and drink during Otafest!

Friday May 16, 2025 11:00am - 6:00pm MDT
Telus 110

Official Otafest Content

Age Rating AP
Tags Food

11:30am MDT

Button Masher

Friday May 16, 2025 11:30am - 12:00pm MDT

Macleod A1 (Otafest Arcade)

Friday May 16, 2025 11:30am - 12:00pm MDT
Macleod A1 (Otafest Arcade)

Official Otafest Content, Otafest Arcade

Age Rating AP
Tags Video Games

11:30am MDT

ANIME! A Game of Bingo

Friday May 16, 2025 11:30am - 12:30pm MDT

Glen 208 / 209

Come compete against one another in an anime inspired game of BINGO for some fun prizes!

Speakers

Malikeia

Friday May 16, 2025 11:30am - 12:30pm MDT
Glen 208 / 209

Community Content

Age Rating AP
Tags Game Show, Interactive

11:30am MDT

Con Survival: Eat Without Breaking the Bank

Friday May 16, 2025 11:30am - 12:30pm MDT

Telus 103

Fuel your con days without breaking the bank! Learn low-cook, budget meals and snacks that don't need a fridge or microwave. Stay energized, save money, and avoid lines with these con survival foods

Speakers

Annie Feng

Friday May 16, 2025 11:30am - 12:30pm MDT
Telus 103

Community Content

Age Rating AP
Tags Educational

11:30am MDT

Generation One is Generation Fun!

Friday May 16, 2025 11:30am - 12:30pm MDT

Glen 203 / 204

Explore the world of the first generation of Pokémon as we see the wild and whacky history of the franchise. From questionable game design to insane worldbuilding, find out how Pokémon got its start!

Speakers

Amberley Rae

Friday May 16, 2025 11:30am - 12:30pm MDT
Glen 203 / 204

Community Content

Age Rating AP
Tags Educational

11:30am MDT

Random Play Dance: Rhythm Games & Vocaloids

Friday May 16, 2025 11:30am - 1:00pm MDT

Outdoor Stage

Vocaloid, Project Sekai, Ensemble Stars, Project Diva, & Love Live! Young and old, veterans and newbies, join us in dancing to some of our favourite vocaloid and rhythm game hits!

Speakers

aycil

Friday May 16, 2025 11:30am - 1:00pm MDT
Outdoor Stage

Community Content

Age Rating AP
Tags Live Performance

11:30am MDT

Idol Festival Contest Check In

Friday May 16, 2025 11:30am - 1:00pm MDT

Ideation 1

Check in here if you are participating in the Idol Festival Contest.

Friday May 16, 2025 11:30am - 1:00pm MDT
Ideation 1

Official Otafest Content

Age Rating AP
Tags Live Performance

12:00pm MDT

From Idea to Edit: How to Plan and Create Content

Friday May 16, 2025 12:00pm - 1:00pm MDT

Glen 205

Are you interested in learning how to create better videos? In this panel, we'll discuss how to bring your ideas to life, filming/audio techniques and editing tricks to elevate your content.

Speakers

Miriam H.

Friday May 16, 2025 12:00pm - 1:00pm MDT
Glen 205

Community Content

Age Rating AP
Tags Educational

12:00pm MDT

Opening Ceremonies

Friday May 16, 2025 12:00pm - 1:00pm MDT

Macleod BCD (Main Events)

Welcome to Otafest! Get ready to see what's in store this year as we kick off this amazing event. You'll get a greeting from this year's special guests, find out a bit more about our charity of the year, and get the inside scoop on all the must-see events happening throughout the weekend.

Friday May 16, 2025 12:00pm - 1:00pm MDT
Macleod BCD (Main Events)

Official Otafest Content, Main Events

Age Rating AP
Tags Live Performance

12:00pm MDT

Seph's Lunch Break Battle

Friday May 16, 2025 12:00pm - 1:00pm MDT

Macleod A1 (Otafest Arcade)

Friday May 16, 2025 12:00pm - 1:00pm MDT
Macleod A1 (Otafest Arcade)

Official Otafest Content, Otafest Arcade

Age Rating AP
Tags Video Games

12:00pm MDT

Learn to Play Cardfight!! Vanguard

Friday May 16, 2025 12:00pm - 1:30pm MDT

Sunalta (Marriott)

Friday May 16, 2025 12:00pm - 1:30pm MDT
Sunalta (Marriott)

Official Otafest Content, Otafest Arcade

Age Rating AP
Tags Card Games

12:00pm MDT

Puyo Puyo Tetris 2 Tournament

Friday May 16, 2025 12:00pm - 2:00pm MDT

Macleod A1 (Otafest Arcade)

Come to play your best in Puyo Puyo Tetris 2 Tournament! Sign-ups will be done day-of in the Console Tournament area of Otafest Arcade. Earn tickets by placing well in Otafest's official tournaments, supported through the Cold Hands Collective. Consoles and controllers will be provided, or you can bring your own. Play games, earn tickets and win prizes at Otafest Arcade!

Friday May 16, 2025 12:00pm - 2:00pm MDT
Macleod A1 (Otafest Arcade)

Official Otafest Content, Otafest Arcade

Age Rating AP
Tags Video Games

12:00pm MDT

Cosplay Repair Station presented by The Costume Shoppe

Friday May 16, 2025 12:00pm - 8:00pm MDT

Ideation 4

Accidents happen, and not every stitch and line of glue is going to last through the excitement of the convention. Luckily, The Costume Shoppe and Otafest's cosplay staff are here to help! Stop by the Cosplay Repair station if you're having a costume malfunction and find useful supplies and tools to put your outfit back in order.

Friday May 16, 2025 12:00pm - 8:00pm MDT
Ideation 4

Official Otafest Content

Age Rating AP
Tags Cosplay

12:30pm MDT

Name That Cry!

Friday May 16, 2025 12:30pm - 1:30pm MDT

Glen 206

Calling all Pokémon trainers! Do you have what it takes to earn the title of Pokémon master? If you said yes then come and play Guess that Cry!

Speakers

CJ

Friday May 16, 2025 12:30pm - 1:30pm MDT
Glen 206

Community Content

Age Rating AP
Tags Game Show

1:00pm MDT

How to Survive Cosplay Pre-judging with Autumn Cosplay

Friday May 16, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm MDT

Glen 203 / 204

Come learn all the tips and tricks to surviving cosplay competition pre-judging with Autumn Cosplay, a veteran of the international cosplay competition circuit!

Speakers

Autumn Cosplay

Autumn, a cosplayer from Alberta, Canada, has a deep passion for creating costumes and bringing her favourite characters to life. Autumn has been cosplaying and competing for over 10 years, with over 50 designs under her belt and more than 20 awards. Autumn has also proudly represented... Read More →

Friday May 16, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm MDT
Glen 203 / 204

Guest Content

Age Rating AP
Tags Cosplay, Educational

1:00pm MDT

Connecting Indigenous Cultures: Canada & Japan

Friday May 16, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm MDT

Telus 103

Bringing Indigenous peoples of Canada and Japan closer together one step at a time!

Speakers

Izabella K.

Friday May 16, 2025 1:00pm - 2:00pm MDT
Telus 103

Official Otafest Content

Age Rating AP
Tags Educational

1:00pm MDT

Lip Sync For Your Life

Friday May 16, 2025 1:00pm - 2:30pm MDT

Glen 208 / 209

Think you've got what it takes to Lip Sync For Your Life? We'll be the judge of that.

Speakers

Stacey M.

Friday May 16, 2025 1:00pm - 2:30pm MDT
Glen 208 / 209

Community Content

Age Rating AP
Tags Interactive

1:30pm MDT

3DS Streetpass Plaza

Friday May 16, 2025 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT

Macleod A1 (Arcade Stage)

Streetpass? in 2025? More likely than you think!

Speakers

Mei

Friday May 16, 2025 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
Macleod A1 (Arcade Stage)

Community Content

Age Rating AP
Tags Video Games

1:30pm MDT

Cosplay Chess

Friday May 16, 2025 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT

Outdoor Stage

It's chess, with you as the pieces! Everyone is invited to watch this epic multi-versal mash-up, but cosplayers especially are encouraged to join for a chance to play on the board.

Speakers

Harley Davis

Friday May 16, 2025 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
Outdoor Stage

Community Content

Age Rating AP
Tags Cosplay, Role Playing

1:30pm MDT

Hoyoverse Cosplay Meetup

Friday May 16, 2025 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT

Rooftop Patio (Marriott)

Meet with cosplayers and fans of the Hoyoverse

Speakers

Azuma

Friday May 16, 2025 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
Rooftop Patio (Marriott)

Community Content

Age Rating AP
Tags Cosplay, Meetup

1:30pm MDT

Name that Neko

Friday May 16, 2025 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT

Telus 101 / 102

If you're a feline fanatic like us, come play Name That Neko! Perhaps you'll discover new anime that highlights these adorable little creatures called cats and maybe win some prizes along the way!

Speakers

Emma K.

Friday May 16, 2025 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
Telus 101 / 102

Community Content

Age Rating AP
Tags Game Show

1:30pm MDT

Droll-O Levelling: A Fantasy Comedy Adventure With The 404s!

Friday May 16, 2025 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT

Macleod BCD (Main Events)

The 404s are on hand for their biggest, most random comedy adventure! Inspired by TTRPG games mixed with fantasy anime inspirations, a band of heroes will be formed in a fantasy world of YOUR creation, on a quest for comedy gold - and it'll be your suggestions AND rolls of the dice that will determine success or failure!

Speakers

The 404s

The 404s – Join Alberta’s own improv otaku as they make up hilarious scenes and sketches with no script, no preparation, and no idea what they’ll do. With your suggestions and anime-inspired situations powering every unique show, The 404s will keep you laughing all weekend long... Read More →

Friday May 16, 2025 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
Macleod BCD (Main Events)

Guest Content, Main Events

Age Rating AP
Tags Live Performance

1:30pm MDT

yanaginagi! A Q&A Panel!

Friday May 16, 2025 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT

Glen 205

Here's your chance to ask Japanese singer, songwriter & music producer, yanaginagi, all about her experiences in the Japanese anime industry!

Speakers

yanaginagi

yanaginagi (やなぎなぎ) is a Japanese singer, songwriter and solo artist.She began to produce music in 2006 and released several self-produced songs and albums. In 2009, she was invited to be the vocalist for the music producer “supercell” under the name of “nagi”.yanaginagi... Read More →

Friday May 16, 2025 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
Glen 205

Guest Content

Age Rating AP
Tags Interactive

1:30pm MDT

Card Games Free Play

Friday May 16, 2025 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT

Sunalta (Marriott)

Friday May 16, 2025 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
Sunalta (Marriott)

Official Otafest Content, Otafest Arcade

Age Rating AP
Tags Card Games

1:30pm MDT

Getting Started in Voice Acting

Friday May 16, 2025 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT

Glen 201 / 202

Ever wanted to get started in voice acting? Calgary locals, Mike Anthony and Nancy Situ, take you through everything you need to know to get started on your journey!

Speakers

Nancy S.

Friday May 16, 2025 1:30pm - 2:30pm MDT
Glen 201 / 202

Official Otafest Content

Age Rating AP
Tags Educational

1:30pm MDT

Lady Georgie

Friday May 16, 2025 1:30pm - 3:30pm MDT

Macleod E4

Adopted by an Australian farmer, Georgie has been raised never knowing the truth of her birth or parents, believing herself to be the daughter of the family she’s been living with. When the truth is finally revealed to her she decides to cross the world, returning to England to search for her birth parents.

Friday May 16, 2025 1:30pm - 3:30pm MDT
Macleod E4

Anime Showing

Age Rating AP
Tags Anime Showing

1:30pm MDT

Allegra Clark @ Autograph Corner

Friday May 16, 2025 1:30pm - 3:30pm MDT

Hall CDE (Exhibitor Hall)

Get Allegra Clark's autograph at the Autograph Corner in the Exhibitor's Hall.

Speakers

Allegra Clark

Friday May 16, 2025 1:30pm - 3:30pm MDT
Hall CDE (Exhibitor Hall)

Guest Content

Age Rating AP
Tags Autographs

1:30pm MDT

Joe Zieja @ Autograph Corner

Friday May 16, 2025 1:30pm - 3:30pm MDT

Hall CDE (Exhibitor Hall)

Get Joe Zieja's autograph at the Autograph Corner in the Exhibitor's Hall.

Speakers

Joe Zieja

Friday May 16, 2025 1:30pm - 3:30pm MDT
Hall CDE (Exhibitor Hall)

Guest Content

Age Rating AP
Tags Autographs

1:30pm MDT

Alejandro Saab @ Autograph Corner

Friday May 16, 2025 1:30pm - 4:00pm MDT

Hall CDE (Exhibitor Hall)

Get Alejandro Saab's autograph at the Autograph Corner in the Exhibitor's Hall.

Speakers

Alejandro Saab

Friday May 16, 2025 1:30pm - 4:00pm MDT
Hall CDE (Exhibitor Hall)

Guest Content

Age Rating AP
Tags Autographs

1:30pm MDT

Kaiji Tang @ Autograph Corner

Friday May 16, 2025 1:30pm - 7:00pm MDT

Hall CDE (Exhibitor Hall)

Get Kaiji Tang's autograph at the Autograph Corner in the Exhibitor's Hall.

Speakers

Kaiji Tang

Friday May 16, 2025 1:30pm - 7:00pm MDT
Hall CDE (Exhibitor Hall)

Guest Content

Age Rating AP
Tags Autographs

2:00pm MDT

The Ota Factor: Otafest Singing Contest Preliminaries

Friday May 16, 2025 2:00pm - 4:00pm MDT

Glen 206

Are you a fan of incredible vocal performances? Do you love watching talented singers compete for glory and recognition? The Ota Factor is where the community's best vocalists come together to showcase their skills and compete for top honours! This exciting event is the perfect opportunity to enjoy amazing live music and support local performers who are ready to give their best performance and sing their hearts out.
Best of all, the qualified panel of judges aren't the only ones who get to choose the singer's fate! You also get to vote and give your favourite performer the Audience's Choice prize! So come and enjoy these brilliant performances from passionate singers that are sure to entertain and move you, as they compete for the glory of being recognized as the best.

Friday May 16, 2025 2:00pm - 4:00pm MDT
Glen 206

Official Otafest Content

Age Rating AP
Tags Interactive, Live Performance

2:30pm MDT

Fighting Hunger Like A Hero: The Calgary Food Bank

Friday May 16, 2025 2:30pm - 3:30pm MDT

Telus 103

Fight hunger like a hero with Calgary Food Bank staff as they discuss how anime, food, and community are intertwined while discovering the ideal volunteer roles for your favourite anime hero.

Speakers

Joelle L.

Friday May 16, 2025 2:30pm - 3:30pm MDT
Telus 103

Community Content

Age Rating AP
Tags Educational

2:30pm MDT

Introduction to Origami

Friday May 16, 2025 2:30pm - 3:30pm MDT

Glen 203 / 204

Want to learn about the Art of Origami? Come to this workshop for a hands on learning experience!

Speakers

Charlie Zheng

Friday May 16, 2025 2:30pm - 3:30pm MDT
Glen 203 / 204

Community Content

Age Rating AP
Tags Educational

2:30pm MDT

Learn to Play Yu-Gi-Oh!

Friday May 16, 2025 2:30pm - 4:00pm MDT

Sunalta (Marriott)

Friday May 16, 2025 2:30pm - 4:00pm MDT
Sunalta (Marriott)

Official Otafest Content, Otafest Arcade

Age Rating AP
Tags Card Games

2:30pm MDT

Cosplay Showcase Registration and Judging

Friday May 16, 2025 2:30pm - 6:00pm MDT

Ideation 1

Are you rocking an amazing, handmade costume but aren't quite ready for the spotlights on the main stage? The Cosplay Showcase is your chance to show off your craftsmanship to our judges and win amazing prizes. Day of registration is available but space is limited!

Friday May 16, 2025 2:30pm - 6:00pm MDT
Ideation 1

Official Otafest Content

Age Rating AP
Tags Cosplay

3:00pm MDT

Booth Babe All Ages Cosplay Dance Performance

Friday May 16, 2025 3:00pm - 4:00pm MDT

Outdoor Stage

Join The Booth Babes in an all ages show girl cosplay dance performance! Enjoy all of the glitz and glam of full cosplay and the glamour of the rhinestones, fans and boas of Show Girls.

Speakers

Sweetie Blue

Friday May 16, 2025 3:00pm - 4:00pm MDT
Outdoor Stage

Community Content

Age Rating AP
Tags Live Performance

3:00pm MDT

Bungo Stray Dogs Cosplay Meetup

Friday May 16, 2025 3:00pm - 4:00pm MDT

Rooftop Patio (Marriott)

Meet with cosplayers and fans of Bungo Stray Dogs

Speakers

Liz

Friday May 16, 2025 3:00pm - 4:00pm MDT
Rooftop Patio (Marriott)

Community Content

Age Rating AP
Tags Cosplay, Meetup

3:00pm MDT

Girl_DM_ - Ask me Anything!

Friday May 16, 2025 3:00pm - 4:00pm MDT

Glen 201 / 202

So you want to be a V-tuber yourself? Here's your chance to ask Girl_DM_ some tips & tricks!

Speakers

Girl_DM_

Girl_dm_ Is a Canadian independent vtuber. Since starting her streaming career in 2020, she’s been known for her affection for Minesweeper and mayonnaise. This catgirl villainess enjoys playing a wide variety of games, singing (check her out on Spotify!), and tormenting her friends.Her... Read More →

Friday May 16, 2025 3:00pm - 4:00pm MDT
Glen 201 / 202

Guest Content

Age Rating AP
Tags Interactive

3:00pm MDT

Endless Epic Pictionary

Friday May 16, 2025 3:00pm - 4:00pm MDT

Macleod A1 (Otafest Arcade)

Friday May 16, 2025 3:00pm - 4:00pm MDT
Macleod A1 (Otafest Arcade)

Official Otafest Content, Otafest Arcade

Age Rating AP
Tags Video Games

3:00pm MDT

Anime Name Game

Friday May 16, 2025 3:00pm - 4:30pm MDT

Glen 208 / 209

The Anime version of Celebrity Name Game is back! Bring a partner and challenge yourselves to this fast-paced, name guessing game.

Speakers

Aaron S.

Friday May 16, 2025 3:00pm - 4:30pm MDT
Glen 208 / 209

Community Content

Age Rating AP
Tags Game Show

3:00pm MDT

Urusei Yatsura (2022)

Friday May 16, 2025 3:00pm - 5:00pm MDT

Macleod E2

With aliens invading and the fate of the world on his shoulders, lustful and unlucky high schooler Ataru Moroboshi is the only person who can save the world. All he has to do is win a game of one-on-one tag against the daughter of the invader’s leader. Couldn’t be simpler, could it?

Friday May 16, 2025 3:00pm - 5:00pm MDT
Macleod E2

Anime Showing

Age Rating AP
Tags Anime Showing

3:00pm MDT

Pokemon Stuffie Stitching

Friday May 16, 2025 3:00pm - 5:00pm MDT

Glen 205

Come make your own Pokémon plushie! All skill levels welcome. Pre-registration at the Pokémon League Room! 50 spots available!

Speakers

Kathleen B.

Friday May 16, 2025 3:00pm - 5:00pm MDT
Glen 205

Official Otafest Content

Age Rating AP
Tags Educational, Interactive

3:00pm MDT

Puyo Puyo Tetris 2 Tournament

Friday May 16, 2025 3:00pm - 5:00pm MDT

Macleod A1 (Otafest Arcade)

Friday May 16, 2025 3:00pm - 5:00pm MDT
Macleod A1 (Otafest Arcade)

Official Otafest Content, Otafest Arcade

Age Rating AP
Tags Video Games

3:00pm MDT

Idol Festival Contest

Friday May 16, 2025 3:00pm - 6:00pm MDT

Macleod BCD (Main Events)

Perform, cheer, and wota for some of your favourite Idol performers! Otafest's Idol Festival showcases a variety of Idol Dance groups year after year, from soloists to large groups and everything in between! Come join us this year for another Festival jam packed with high-energy performers, lots of cheering and best of all, glow sticks!

Friday May 16, 2025 3:00pm - 6:00pm MDT
Macleod BCD (Main Events)

Official Otafest Content, Main Events

Age Rating AP
Tags Live Performance

3:30pm MDT

Rie Tanaka Autograph Session [Lottery - See Description]

Friday May 16, 2025 3:30pm - 4:30pm MDT

Telus 101 / 102

We are very pleased to offer a limited number of free autographs to autograph lottery winners.

Please sign up for the lottery (draw on May 11th) here: https://forms.otafest.com/lottery

Japanese Seiyuu Rie Tanaka has voiced some of your favourite roles in anime, including Lacus Clyne in Mobile Suit Gundam SEED, Chi from Chobits, and Yomi from Azumanga Daioh, just to name a couple.

Speakers

Rie Tanaka

Rie Tanaka is a veteran Japanese voice actress with over 25 years in the industry.She has voiced several iconic characters new and old, including Chii from Chobits, Yomi from Azumanga Daioh, Lacus Clyne from the Mobile Suit Gundam SEED series, Hikari Kujou from Pretty Cure Max Heart... Read More →

Friday May 16, 2025 3:30pm - 4:30pm MDT
Telus 101 / 102

Guest Content

Age Rating AP
Tags Autographs

3:30pm MDT

Samurai Pizza Cats

Friday May 16, 2025 3:30pm - 5:30pm MDT

Macleod E3

Set in a Japanese looking village named "Little Tokyo," the Pizza Cats run a pizza fast food business. The pizza take away restaurant is merely a cover for their true job... Whenever evil is afoot, the Pizza Cats are launched towards the danger.

Friday May 16, 2025 3:30pm - 5:30pm MDT
Macleod E3

Anime Showing

Age Rating AP
Tags Anime Showing

4:00pm MDT

Zapp's Spaceship of Love: Critical fail!

Friday May 16, 2025 4:00pm - 5:00pm MDT

Glen 203 / 204

Do you like D&D? Do you hate D&D? Do you not care either way and just want to see a bunch of nerds embarrass themselves? Join our D&D audience improv game and have your wish fulfilled!

Speakers

Donald E.

Friday May 16, 2025 4:00pm - 5:00pm MDT
Glen 203 / 204

Community Content

Age Rating AP
Tags Educational

4:00pm MDT

Card Games Free Play

Friday May 16, 2025 4:00pm - 5:00pm MDT

Sunalta (Marriott)

Friday May 16, 2025 4:00pm - 5:00pm MDT
Sunalta (Marriott)

Official Otafest Content, Otafest Arcade

Age Rating AP
Tags Card Games

4:30pm MDT

CyYu Tech Support! A Q&A w/ CyYuVtuber aka Alejandro Saab

Friday May 16, 2025 4:30pm - 5:30pm MDT

Glen 201 / 202

Tech support? Look no further than the Cyborg Seiyu, CyYu aka Alejandro Saab! Got questions for him about VTubing? About his VTuber? Or do you have questions about the characters he voiced? Come join him in this one-hour panel to talk about his roles and VTubing!

Speakers

Alejandro Saab

Friday May 16, 2025 4:30pm - 5:30pm MDT
Glen 201 / 202

Guest Content

Age Rating AP
Tags Interactive, Voice Actors

4:30pm MDT

Allegra Clark @ Autograph Corner

Friday May 16, 2025 4:30pm - 7:00pm MDT

Hall CDE (Exhibitor Hall)

Get Allegra Clark's autograph at the Autograph Corner in the Exhibitor's Hall.

Speakers

Allegra Clark

Friday May 16, 2025 4:30pm - 7:00pm MDT
Hall CDE (Exhibitor Hall)

Guest Content

Age Rating AP
Tags Autographs

4:30pm MDT

Joe Zieja @ Autograph Corner

Friday May 16, 2025 4:30pm - 7:00pm MDT

Hall CDE (Exhibitor Hall)

Get Joe Zieja's autograph at the Autograph Corner in the Exhibitor's Hall.

Speakers

Joe Zieja

Friday May 16, 2025 4:30pm - 7:00pm MDT
Hall CDE (Exhibitor Hall)

Guest Content

Age Rating AP
Tags Autographs

4:30pm MDT

Puyo Puyo Tetris 2 Tournament Stream

Friday May 16, 2025 4:30pm - 8:00pm MDT

Macleod A1 (Otafest Arcade)

Friday May 16, 2025 4:30pm - 8:00pm MDT
Macleod A1 (Otafest Arcade)

Official Otafest Content, Otafest Arcade

Age Rating AP
Tags Video Games

5:00pm MDT

Just Do It: A Panel on Panels

Friday May 16, 2025 5:00pm - 6:00pm MDT

Telus 101 / 102

Ever wanted to run a panel, but didn't know where to start? Or just needed that little extra push to hit "submit"? If so, this is the panel for you!

Speakers

Robin F.

Friday May 16, 2025 5:00pm - 6:00pm MDT
Telus 101 / 102

Community Content

Age Rating AP
Tags Educational

5:00pm MDT

Learn to Play One Piece

Friday May 16, 2025 5:00pm - 6:30pm MDT

Sunalta (Marriott)

Friday May 16, 2025 5:00pm - 6:30pm MDT
Sunalta (Marriott)

Official Otafest Content, Otafest Arcade

Age Rating AP
Tags Card Games

5:30pm MDT

Reincarnated as a Sword

Friday May 16, 2025 5:30pm - 7:30pm MDT

Macleod E2

Reincarnated as a sentient weapon with memories of his past life, but not his name, a magical sword saves a young beastgirl from a life of slavery. Fran, the cat-eared girl, becomes his wielder, and wants only to grow stronger, while the sword wants to know why he is here.

Friday May 16, 2025 5:30pm - 7:30pm MDT
Macleod E2

Anime Showing

Age Rating AP
Tags Anime Showing

6:00pm MDT

Fairy Tail Cosplay Meetup

Friday May 16, 2025 6:00pm - 7:00pm MDT

Rooftop Patio (Marriott)

Meet with cosplayers and fans of Fairy Tail

Speakers

Char

Friday May 16, 2025 6:00pm - 7:00pm MDT
Rooftop Patio (Marriott)

Community Content

Age Rating AP
Tags Cosplay, Meetup

6:00pm MDT

Alejandro Saab @ Autograph Corner

Friday May 16, 2025 6:00pm - 7:00pm MDT

Hall CDE (Exhibitor Hall)

Get Alejandro Saab's autograph at the Autograph Corner in the Exhibitor's Hall.

Speakers

Alejandro Saab

Friday May 16, 2025 6:00pm - 7:00pm MDT
Hall CDE (Exhibitor Hall)

Guest Content

Age Rating AP
Tags Autographs

6:00pm MDT

Yosoca - Yosakoi Soran Dance Performance

Friday May 16, 2025 6:00pm - 7:00pm MDT

Outdoor Stage

Yosakoi Soran Calgary is a vibrant and dynamic Japanese dance troupe founded by a group of passionate dancers who wanted to bring the energy and excitement of the Yosakoi Soran dance style to the local community, and has become a beloved fixture of the local arts and culture scene! Their performances are always a hit with audiences, who are captivated by the group's high-energy dance routines and colourful costumes!

Speakers

Yosoca

YOSOCA is a high-energy Yosakoi dance team based in Calgary, proudly representing the Japanese community and sponsored by the Kaede Cultural Society. We specialize in Yosakoi, a unique style of dance that blends traditional Japanese movement with modern music and choreography. Originating... Read More →

Friday May 16, 2025 6:00pm - 7:00pm MDT
Outdoor Stage

Guest Content

Age Rating AP
Tags Live Performance

6:00pm MDT

Cosplay Showcase Awards

Friday May 16, 2025 6:00pm - 7:00pm MDT

Ideation 1

Friday May 16, 2025 6:00pm - 7:00pm MDT
Ideation 1

Official Otafest Content

Age Rating AP
Tags Cosplay

6:00pm MDT

Puyo Puyo Tetris 2 Tournament

Friday May 16, 2025 6:00pm - 8:00pm MDT

Macleod A1 (Otafest Arcade)

Friday May 16, 2025 6:00pm - 8:00pm MDT
Macleod A1 (Otafest Arcade)

Official Otafest Content, Otafest Arcade

Age Rating AP
Tags Video Games

6:30pm MDT

Card Games Free Play

Friday May 16, 2025 6:30pm - 8:00pm MDT

Sunalta (Marriott)

Friday May 16, 2025 6:30pm - 8:00pm MDT
Sunalta (Marriott)

Official Otafest Content, Otafest Arcade

Age Rating AP
Tags Card Games

7:00pm MDT

How to Make Cosplay & Cons Neurodivergent Friendly

Friday May 16, 2025 7:00pm - 8:00pm MDT

Telus 103

Cons and cosplay can be a lot for neurodivergent people, so take it from a couple or neurodivergent cosplayers on how you can avoid cosplay overstimulation!

Speakers

Odette Lynn

Friday May 16, 2025 7:00pm - 8:00pm MDT
Telus 103

Community Content

Age Rating AP
Tags Cosplay, Educational

7:00pm MDT

Sewing Machines 101 for Cosplay

Friday May 16, 2025 7:00pm - 8:00pm MDT

Glen 203 / 204

Join us for an hour-long crash course on sewing machines tailored for beginners with no prior experience! This panel will introduce you to the basics of sewing machines and how to wrangle them.

Speakers

Annie Feng

Friday May 16, 2025 7:00pm - 8:00pm MDT
Glen 203 / 204

Community Content

Age Rating AP
Tags Cosplay, Educational

7:30pm MDT

Dork Tales Presents: How To Start an Actual Play RPG Channel

Friday May 16, 2025 7:30pm - 8:30pm MDT

Glen 205

So, you want to start an Actual Play RPG channel? Let the cast of Dork Tales help you! With seven years as a TTRPG channel Twitch and YouTube, we're here to answer all your questions!

Speakers

Kelly C.

Friday May 16, 2025 7:30pm - 8:30pm MDT
Glen 205

Community Content

Age Rating AP
Tags Role Playing

7:30pm MDT

What the Twitch 101 - A Beginners Q&A

Friday May 16, 2025 7:30pm - 8:30pm MDT

Glen 201 / 202

New to streaming? Wondering how to start or grow? Let Prof.Niff be your guide. A Q&A meets how to! Its for you!

Speakers

Nifftaako

Friday May 16, 2025 7:30pm - 8:30pm MDT
Glen 201 / 202

Community Content

Age Rating AP
Tags Educational

8:00pm MDT

Lace and Rhinestones: How to Elevate Your Cosplays

Friday May 16, 2025 8:00pm - 9:00pm MDT

Telus 101 / 102

Learn about applying Lace, appliqués, and rhinestones to already existing cosplays. There will be different grades of stones for you to look at, and the best tips for applying appliqués.

Speakers

Sweetie Blue

Friday May 16, 2025 8:00pm - 9:00pm MDT
Telus 101 / 102

Community Content

Age Rating AP
Tags Cosplay, Educational

8:30pm MDT

How to Create Manga 101

Friday May 16, 2025 8:30pm - 10:00pm MDT

Glen 203 / 204

Want to create comics or manga and have no idea where to start? This panel will go over all the ins and outs of tools and steps to get ideas from out of your head and right into your own manga!

Speakers

TJThrilla

Friday May 16, 2025 8:30pm - 10:00pm MDT
Glen 203 / 204

Community Content

Age Rating AP
Tags Educational

9:00pm MDT

Sailor Moon Werewolf

Friday May 16, 2025 9:00pm - 10:30pm MDT

Glen 201 / 202

The evil Negaverse has corrupted Azabu Juban, rendering everyone unable to recognize each other! Can the Sailor Scouts identify them before their time runs out? Come join our rendition of Werewolf.

Speakers

Sylvea

Friday May 16, 2025 9:00pm - 10:30pm MDT
Glen 201 / 202

Community Content

Age Rating AP
Tags Role Playing

9:30pm MDT

Traveling to Japan: Best Bang For Your Buck

Friday May 16, 2025 9:30pm - 10:30pm MDT

Telus 101 / 102

Want to travel to Japan but not sure how to get the best bang for your buck? Where to stay? How to get around? Where is worth going? Join us to maximize your trip to Japan!

Speakers

Steven H.

Friday May 16, 2025 9:30pm - 10:30pm MDT
Telus 101 / 102

Community Content

Age Rating AP
Tags Educational

9:30pm MDT

Otafest AMPLIFIED: The Rave with DJ Advanced Ratio

Friday May 16, 2025 9:30pm - 11:30pm MDT

Macleod BCD (Main Events)

Come dance the night away at Otafest AMPLIFIED, featuring local legend: DJ Advanced Ratio!

Speakers

DJ AdvanceRatio

AdvanceRatio is a Calgary-based DJ and producer with a passion for Japanese pop-culture, especially Vocaloid and idol music. His high-energy blend of hard dance sounds with anime, Vocaloid and Jpop tunes has helped him thrill crowds from the West Coast all the way to Tokyo.... Read More →

Friday May 16, 2025 9:30pm - 11:30pm MDT
Macleod BCD (Main Events)

Official Otafest Content, Main Events

Age Rating AP
Tags Live Performance, Interactive

11:00pm MDT

GEOPARDY: The Legally Distinct Genshin Trivia Game

Friday May 16, 2025 11:00pm - Saturday May 17, 2025 12:00am MDT

Glen 206

Come together and participate in light-hearted trivia centred around Genshin Impact! Friendly for new and long-time players alike, showcase your knowledge of lore, characters, locations, and more!

Speakers

aycil

Friday May 16, 2025 11:00pm - Saturday May 17, 2025 12:00am MDT
Glen 206

Community Content

Age Rating AP
Tags Game Show