Anime Expo 2026 Announces VOCALOID Event & Star-Studded Guests
Get ready, anime fans! Anime Expo, the largest anime convention in North America, has started unveiling its impressive lineup for Anime Expo 2026, promising an unforgettable experience for attendees. The latest announcements include an exciting music event dedicated to VOCALOID culture, along with celebrated manga creators, illustrators, and idol performers. Mark your calendars for July 2-5 at the Los Angeles Convention Center, because this year is shaping up to be truly special.
VOCALOID Power Takes the Stage
One of the most anticipated announcements is the "JAPAN MUSIC VOCALOID Powered by DWANGO" event scheduled for July 4. This special concert will bring the magic of VOCALOID music to life with a stellar roster of musical guests. Fans will have the chance to see live performances from renowned artists such as Hachiōji-P, known for their high-energy electronic sounds; kz (Livetune), a pioneer in the VOCALOID scene; picco; SatapanP; and TeddyLoid, celebrated for their unique blend of electronic and pop music. This incredible event is included with standard Anime Expo credentials, meaning no separate ticket is required to immerse yourself in the vibrant world of VOCALOID. Prepare for an electrifying night of rhythm and digital artistry that will surely be a highlight of the convention.
Manga Masters and Illustrators Join the Fun
Beyond the music, Anime Expo 2026 is also set to host an impressive array of talent from the manga and illustration world. Among the esteemed guests is Kazuo Maekawa, a veteran manga creator boasting over 30 years of experience. Maekawa-sensei is widely recognized for his work on the popular Miles Edgeworth: Ace Attorney and Phoenix Wright: Ace Attorney manga series, bringing beloved video game characters to life on the page. As the lead instructor at Manga Dojo Tokyo, he also shares his vast knowledge through manga workshops and programs across the U.S. and Europe, making his appearance a must-see for aspiring artists and fans alike.
Joining him is the talented illustrator and game character designer karory. Known for her captivating artwork, karory has lent her distinct style to various projects, including illustrating the light novel series The Case of Me, a Tutor for Noble People in a Dress. Her intricate designs and expressive characters are sure to inspire. Additionally, legendary illustrator Yoshitaka Amano, celebrated for his iconic work in various fantasy series and video games, will also be gracing the event, promising a rare opportunity for fans to engage with a true master.
Idol Performances and Event Details
The entertainment continues with additional musical performances. Idol Yurapico is slated to perform as part of the ticketed "Idol Summer Escape" event on July 4. This separate ticketed performance offers another fantastic opportunity to experience live music and idol culture. Anime Expo 2026 is scheduled to run from July 2-5 at the sprawling Los Angeles Convention Center, providing ample space for its diverse program. Last year’s event saw a record-breaking turnstile attendance of over 410,000 attendees from more than 65 countries, highlighting the convention's immense global appeal and its status as a premier destination for anime and manga enthusiasts. With such a robust lineup already announced, Anime Expo 2026 is poised to surpass expectations and deliver another memorable celebration of Japanese pop culture.
Looking forward to seeing you there for a celebration of anime, manga, and music like no other!
