Anime Mid-Atlantic facts for kids

Anime Mid-Atlantic was a cool event for fans of Japanese animation (anime) and comics (manga). It was like a big party where people who loved these shows and books could meet up! This convention usually happened in June, often around Father's Day weekend. It was held in Norfolk, Virginia, but it also took place in other cities like Richmond, Virginia and Chesapeake, Virginia for many years.

What Happened at the Convention?

Anime Mid-Atlantic had many exciting activities for attendees. You could find something fun to do no matter what you liked!

• Anime Music Video Contest: People created cool music videos using clips from anime shows.
• Artist's Alley: This was a special area where talented artists sold their own anime and manga-inspired artwork.
• Dance: There were often dance parties where you could show off your moves.
• Dealer's Room: Here, you could buy all sorts of anime and manga merchandise. This included figures, posters, and more.
• Hall Costume Contest: Many people dressed up as their favorite characters. This contest judged the best costumes worn around the convention.
• Karaoke: You could sing your favorite songs, often from anime soundtracks.
• Masquerade: This was a big costume show where people performed skits in their amazing outfits.
• Panels: Experts and fans talked about different anime and manga topics. You could learn new things or discuss your favorite shows.
• Video Game Tournaments: Gamers competed against each other in popular video games.
• Video Rooms: These rooms played anime movies and TV shows all day long.
• Workshops: You could learn skills like drawing manga or making costumes.

History of the Convention

Anime Mid-Atlantic started in 2001. It was the very first anime convention in Richmond, Virginia. The first event took place at the Holiday Inn Select Koger South Conference Center.

In 2008, the convention had to change its location unexpectedly. It was supposed to be in Washington, D.C., but the hotel had a double-booking problem. So, the convention moved to the Holiday Inn Executive Center in Virginia Beach, Virginia.

In 2010, Anime Mid-Atlantic helped a good cause. They collected donations for the Make-A-Wish Foundation. This foundation helps make wishes come true for children with critical illnesses. That year, they also honored Carl Macek. He was a famous person in the anime world who had attended the convention before.

The 2016 convention was held in Chesapeake, Virginia. It used the Chesapeake Conference Center and two nearby hotels. Anime Mid-Atlantic went on a break starting in 2019. This was because of health issues with the convention's CEO.

Past Events

Here's a look at some of the past Anime Mid-Atlantic conventions:

AMA Cosplay Fest

AMA Cosplay Fest was another fun anime convention. It lasted for three days and was held in December or January. This event took place at the Marriott Chesapeake in Chesapeake, Virginia.

The Cosplay Fest had many cool activities, including:

• Cosplay competitions, where people showed off their amazing costumes.
• Cosplay chess, a game where people dressed as chess pieces.
• Fashion shows, featuring creative and unique outfits.
• Karaoke, for singing your favorite tunes.
• Masquerade cosplay, a stage show for costumed performances.
• Panel discussions, where fans could talk about their interests.
• Tabletop gaming, for playing board games and card games.
• Workshops, where you could learn new skills.

AMA Cosplay Fest History