Fans celebrate everything cosplay at 2nd Anime Ottawa convention

Anime Ottawa at the EY Centre may only be in its second year, but it has attracted more than 10,000 visitors over Easter long weekend.

The Anime Ottawa convention returned to the EY Centre in the nation’s capital this Easter long weekend.

Fans dressed up as their favourite characters and had the opportunity to meet creators and talents from all over the world.

The Exhibition Hall hosted more than 275 exhibitor booths and industry representatives, while Artist Alley featured exceptional talents.

Tony Nogaro, a gamer and cosplay participant, says he lives for the enjoyment and is a big fan of the culture. This is Nogaro’s second Anime Ottawa, but he’s been to more than 40 similar events.

“I’ve been cosplaying for eight years. I could run you the numbers, but it would take me a minute,” said Nogaro.

Nogaro built his own costume for the event and received a ribbon from Anime Ottawa for having a top costume. Nogaro says it’s inspired by art from World of Warcraft that he took and built into cosplay.

“Honestly, I love conventions. I love the community, meeting people. Everyone here is here because they love a show, a game and honestly, it’s that passion that really drives me to come out and talk to people and just connect,” Nogaro said.

Jason Rockman, coordinator for Anime Ottawa, says the event broke records this year with more than 10,000 people attending. He says there’s always a lot going on.

“There’s programing that’s going on all through the halls - all the small little rooms. There’s hyper focused, panels, all kinds of interesting stuff,” said Rockman.

Fans were able to get autographs from their favourite cosplayers and enjoy various performances all weekend long. Rockman says a lot of the owners of the show are big Anime fans.

“We partnered with some really, really awesome people that are knee deep in anime and really accustomed to it and really know their stuff,” said Rockman.

The event was also filled with booths and local vendors featuring clothing, toys, games, art and food.

At just 14-years-old, Harley Belanger is the youngest exhibitor at Anime Ottawa and the owner of her small business, Walker’s Sweet Society, selling freeze dried candy.

“It’s a bit like a shock because you see all of these businesses where it’s older people and adults and just being the younger one here, it shows other kids that you can actually do it,” said Belanger.

“If you put in the work and effort, it doesn’t matter the age. It’s just if you have your idea, you stick to it and you can get it done.”

Belanger, who started her business at 13-years-old, says this was always a passion for her.

“From a young age, I’ve always wanted a business. Then one day, I made a presentation to show my mom,” she said.

“I’ve always loved freeze dried candy so, we just brainstormed and she helped make it happen with me.”

The event started Friday and wrapped up on Sunday afternoon.