Anime, Cosplay, and Crowds: Our Day at Otaku Pop Fes

We spent our weekend a little differently this time because we attended Day 2 of Otaku Pop Fes 2026 at Okada Manila, and it turned out to be an interesting experience, especially if you have a child who enjoys anime, games, or anything related to Japanese pop culture. Okada Manila hosted Otaku Pop Fes 2026 as its official venue partner, staging a large-scale, two-day celebration of anime, live music, and cosplay at the Grand Ballroom and Cove Manila on April 25 to 26, 2026. The event brought together fans, creators, and performers in a Forbes 5-star setting designed for world-class entertainment and cultural experiences.

What Otaku Pop Fes Is All About

For those who are not familiar, Otaku Pop Fes is a two-day event that brings together anime, gaming, cosplay, and live performances in one place. It’s actually one of the newer large-scale events in the Philippines focused on Japanese pop culture.

The event is divided into two main areas:

• The Ballroom – where you can find anime exhibits, merchandise booths, and stage activities
• Cove Manila – where cosplay, performances, and concerts happen

So it’s not just a convention….. it’s a mix of expo + concert + cosplay event all in one.

The festival opened with an exclusive reception at Okada Manila, attended by media partners, sponsors, and Japanese officials and executives. Among those present were Mr. Akinori Osaki of CyberE Inc., Mr. Shigehiro Matsuda of the Japan Information and Culture Center and the Embassy of Japan in the Philippines, Mr. Nobuki Sato, President and Chief Operating Officer of Okada Manila, and Ms. Ayee Calma of CBZN Perspective.

“As an integrated resort shaped by both Japanese excellence and Filipino warmth, Okada Manila is a natural home for an event like Otaku Pop Fes,” said Mr. Sato, “bringing together communities through creativity, shared passion, and cultural exchange.”

Throughout the two-day festival, guests experienced a range of performances, showcases, and fan-driven activities.

At the Grand Ballroom, guests moved through anime and game booths, themed attractions, and cosplay showcases featuring titles such as Dan Da Dan, Tokyo Revengers, Naruto, Spy x Family, and Frieren: Beyond Journey’s End. Interactive displays, activities, and photo moments brought fans closer to the characters and stories they follow.

Cove Manila hosted the festival’s live music performances in its expansive indoor venue, distinguished by its UV-protected glass dome. The lineup included DJ Kazu, Eir Aoi, Hiroshi Kitadani, and South Korean girl group UNIS, delivering high-energy sets across both nights.

The Otaku Pop Fes Cosplay Cup brought top cosplayers to the stage, showcasing detailed costumes and performances inspired by well-known characters. The segment highlighted the creativity and craftsmanship of the cosplay community. Special guests Zackt, Roxanne Kho, Lia Bear, Awie, Prince De Guzman, and Myrtle Sarrosa also joined the event for meet-and-greet sessions with fans.

The event underscores Okada Manila’s capability to host major international festivals, bringing together entertainment, culture, and community within a single destination.

What We Experienced on Day 2

Since we went on Day 2, the energy was already quite high. You’ll immediately notice people dressed in different costumes, from simple anime-inspired outfits to full-on detailed cosplay.

As a mom, I found myself observing more than participating and honestly, that’s okay. It’s one of those events where you can just walk around, look at booths, and let your child enjoy the atmosphere.

There were:

• Anime and game booths featuring popular titles
• Official merchandise and collectibles
• Stage programs and activities
• Cosplay competitions and photo opportunities

One thing I noticed is how passionate the community is. Even if you’re not super familiar with anime, you’ll still appreciate the creativity and effort people put into their costumes.

Mommy Perspective

If I’m being real, this kind of event is more enjoyable if you or your child is already into anime or gaming. For parents like me who are just there to accompany, it’s more of a “support role” experience, but still worth it in a different way.

What I liked:

• It’s a different kind of bonding experience
• You get to see what your child is into
• It’s a safe space for creativity and self-expression

What to expect:

• A lot of walking
• Crowds, especially in popular areas
• High energy, especially near the stage and cosplay zones

Final Thoughts

Otaku Pop Fes may not be for everyone, but if your child enjoys anime, cosplay, or gaming, this is something they will definitely appreciate.

As a mom, I’ve learned that sometimes, you don’t need to fully understand what your child likes. You just need to show up, be there, and experience it with them.

And honestly, that alone already makes it worth it.

Discover more unforgettable events at Okada Manila by visiting www.okadamanila.com.