Cosplay Takes the Spotlight at Animaga 2025
By Bree Pagliuso|
In a city that celebrates self-expression, cosplay might just be the loudest love letter of all. This August, Animaga returns to MCEC and with it comes a colourful, creative, and completely unmissable celebration of fandom, artistry and community.
Across two vibrant days, and as one of Australia’s leading celebrations of anime, manga, gaming and Japanese pop culture, our venue will come alive with cosplay showcases, guest appearances, panel talks, a bustling Artist Alley, and endless opportunities to connect with fellow fans. Whether you're a long-time attendee or stepping into your first Animaga , there’s always something new to discover and someone new to meet.
And at the heart of it all? Cosplay.
Walk the Walk
The Saturday Cosplay Parade is all about personal style, passion, and the joy of dressing up. No competition. No pressure. Just you, your look, and a crowd that loves every moment of it.
Main Stage Fun
Sunday, the Cosplay Competition steps things up. It’s for the prop-makers, the stitchers, the last-minute hot-gluers and everyone who’s ever stayed up past midnight chasing perfection.
Mini Cosplayers, Big Applause
Also on Sunday, the Children’s Cosplay Parade brings a serious dose of cute chaos. Think tiny superheroes, magical girls, and anime icons in miniature.
More to Explore
Gaming Zone – Beat.au
Inside Animaga’s buzzing video gaming area, Beat.au is where rhythm and reaction collide. Tap into your favourite arcade hits from DDR to Taiko Master and lose yourself in the beat.
Maid Café
The Animaga Maid Café is back with tea, treats and full Akihabara energy. Sit, relax, and let the maids and butlers serve up classic charm and kawaii cheer.
Main Drawing Area
Pull up a chair and make something magical. From sand bottles to origami, the Drawing Area is packed with fun, hands-on art activities. Want to show off your skills? Enter this year’s drawing competition, with the theme Time and Witch. Bring your masterpiece to life onsite or from home.
You’ll also find:
A cosplay repair station for those last-minute fixes
A pro photo booth to capture your final look
A crowd that’s warm, diverse, and wildly enthusiastic
New friends, fresh inspiration, and reasons to fall in love with cosplay all over again
There’s so much to experience and honestly, we can’t possibly sum up all the fun that’s coming.
If you need more convincing, click here . But really, there’s only one way to find out for yourself.
Grab your ticket and come see what all the hype’s about.