Anime USA moves 27-year-old convention to Chantilly

A volunteer-led anime convention is relocating its annual three-day event from Arlington to Chantilly for the 2026 edition. The organization, known as Anime USA, will hold the event at the Westfields Marriott Washington Dulles from November 20 to November 22. This marks the 27th year of the gathering, which is organized by volunteers rather than a corporate entity.

The new venue is located at 14750 Conference Center Drive. Organizers cited the expansive event and meeting spaces as a primary factor in the decision. They also noted the availability of complimentary parking and the facility's proximity to Dulles International Airport. The location sits in the Sully District, an area the group selected for its diverse dining options, including Japanese restaurants and other specialty cuisines.

Clinton Carlson, the marketing director for the organization, stated that the move represents a new chapter for the group. He noted that the convention is designed to bring people together through creativity and community. "As we begin a new chapter in Chantilly, we’re excited to welcome both longtime fans and first-time attendees," Carlson said. He added that the event aims to showcase the talent and energy of the fan base.

Adam Hennessey, the 2026 convention chairman, explained that the group has long considered the DC/NoVa area its home. Hennessey said the shift to Chantilly allows the organization to remain local for long-time attendees while offering a new outlet for pop culture fans in the area. The goal is to provide a space for fans to meet like-minded individuals and engage with the event's offerings.

The 2026 edition will focus on the theme "The RPG," with an emphasis on role-playing games and fantasy elements connected to anime. Planned activities include elaborate handcrafted costumes, appearances by entertainment personalities, and live performances. Attendees will also have access to video and tabletop gaming stations, merchandise shopping, and an Artist’s Alley for meeting independent creators.

The guest lineup includes vtuber Ironmouse, voice actresses Anastasia Muñoz, Carrie Savage, and Natalie Van Sistine, and YouTuber Saberspark. Other featured creators include illustrator Dessi-Desu, cartoonist Kevin Bolk, and the musical group Neo Atomic Motor. Organizers noted that the lineup may change and will be updated online as schedules are finalized.

Registration for the event starts at $80 per person. Discounts or free admission are available for children, with specific pricing based on age. The event remains a volunteer-led operation, continuing its history of serving the local fan community.