Anime USA Brings Three Days of Anime, Cosplay, Special Guests and Japanese Pop Culture to Chantilly

The volunteer-run nonprofit convention returns November 20-22 with a new Northern Virginia venue and a role-playing game-inspired theme.

CHANTILLY, VA | October 23, 2026

Northern Virginia will become a destination for anime fans, cosplayers, gamers, artists and pop culture enthusiasts when Anime USA returns for its 26th convention, November 20–22, 2026, at the Westfields Marriott Washington Dulles in Chantilly, Virginia.

With more than two decades of history in the Washington, DC metropolitan area, Anime USA celebrates creativity, cultural appreciation and the communities that bring Japanese pop culture to life. This year's convention, Anime USA XXVI: The RPG, draws inspiration from role-playing games, anime and fantasy.

From elaborate handcrafted costumes and appearances by entertainment personalities to gaming, original artwork and live performances, the convention offers a weekend of discovery for longtime fans and newcomers alike.

A New Chapter in Chantilly
Anime USA's move to the Westfields Marriott Washington Dulles marks a new chapter for the long-running event. Founded in 1999 and operated by volunteers through a nonprofit organization, Anime USA combines educational programming, creative workshops, performances, and community experiences in a single, convenient location.

“Anime USA has always been about more than anime. It's about creativity, community, and bringing people together through the things they love. As we begin a new chapter in Chantilly, we're excited to welcome both longtime fans and first-time attendees to experience the incredible talent, passion, and energy that make this community so special.”

- Clinton Carlson, Marketing Director, Anime USA

Guests, Creators and Fan Experiences
The announced 2026 lineup includes Ironmouse, Anastasia Muñoz, Carrie Savage, Natalie Van Sistine, Saberspark, Dessi-Desu, Kevin Bolk (K-Bo), Neo Atomic Motor and additional artists and performers. Guest appearances and schedules are subject to change; the latest lineup is available at animeusa.org.

Across the weekend, attendees can discover cosplay and costuming, independent creators in Artist's Alley, video and tabletop gaming, panels and workshops, merchandise vendors, and Live Entertainment. Together, these activities spotlight the artistry and shared interests that connect anime and gaming communities.

Stories Worth Covering
For local newsrooms, Anime USA offers visually compelling and human-interest coverage: the craftsmanship behind elaborate cosplay; interviews about the art of voice acting; independent artists and small businesses; the volunteers who produce a multi-day nonprofit event; and the convention's new home in Chantilly.

Media organizations interested in advance interviews, photography, on-site reporting or event previews are invited to contact the Anime USA marketing department to discuss arrangements. Interview and access opportunities are subject to confirmation and may be limited.

Event at a Glance
Anime USA XXVI: The RPG
November 20–22, 2026
Westfields Marriott Washington Dulles
14750 Conference Center Drive, Chantilly, VA 20151
Event information and registration: https://animeusa.org

About Anime USA
Founded in 1999, Anime USA is a volunteer-run nonprofit convention celebrating Japanese animation, arts, culture, history, gaming and popular entertainment. Through programming, performances, workshops and community activities, it promotes cultural appreciation, creative expression and connections among fans.