Panels are any kind of discussion, Q&A, meetup, or talk on a specific topic, show, or fandom. They include fan-led plot discussions, talks about character pairings, hilarious commentary on badly-dubbed anime, fandom meetups, and even Q&As with our guests of honor. The convention's main programming is built on panels run by staff, volunteer attendees, and our guests of honor.
We are always looking for more panels. If you have something you want to talk about, a group you want to have a meetup and chat with, or something you think you could teach, we would love to have you submit your event. If you're willing to run an hour-long panel on it, we're usually able to include it in the schedule (time permitting). Some of the most popular con events are fan-led panels, like the fanfiction panel or the Final Fantasy panel.
A description of each panel is featured in the convention program book, which will be put on the convention events page when it's complete. The program book is usually completed 3-5 weeks prior to the convention, though sometimes we release preview schedules much earlier. We only wait so long to publish the final program guide because we continue gathering event submissions, and sometimes the schedule may be changed at the last minute.
Attending panels is a great way to dive deeper into the fandoms you love and discover new ones. Whether you're a seasoned fan or just getting started, panels offer unique insights, expert opinions, and a chance to meet others who share your passion. Many panels are interactive, encouraging audience participation, debates, and discussions that can make you see your favorite shows in a whole new light. It's also an opportunity to hear directly from voice actors, creators, and industry professionals who bring your favorite characters and stories to life.
To ensure you don't miss out on the most anticipated panels, it's a good idea to plan ahead. Check the event schedule regularly as it gets closer to the convention dates, and consider bookmarking or noting down the panels you most want to attend. Remember that some panels may have limited seating or require early sign-ups, especially for popular topics or guest Q&As. Being early not only secures you a spot but also gives you a chance to get a good seat, so you can fully enjoy the experience.
