You know it, I know it, and everyone here at Anime Time Media knows it. It’s mid-July, and the smell of cosplay is in the air! And it’s not just us feeling it, but it’s felt all around the world, like in Nagoya, Japan: Yes, next August will gift us with the cosplay event considered by many to be the biggest in the world! We are talking none other than the World Cosplay Summit 2024 (WCS 2024), an event that attracts more than 200,000 visitors annually, and is a celebration of Japanese pop culture ranging from anime to video games and manga, in a spectacular display of creativity and passion for cosplay.
Since its inception in 2003, the World Cosplay Summit has served as a cultural bridge, fostering friendship and exchange among fans worldwide. This year, the event will be held at iconic locations such as Oasis 21, the Aichi Arts Center, and the streets of Osu, transforming Nagoya into the vibrant heart of global cosplay. Not only will you be able to enjoy watching the best cosplayers in action, but you can also participate in various activities, from photo sessions at dedicated locations to enjoying live performances and special talks on the stage of Oasis 21.
The highlight of the event is the “World Cosplay Championship,” where cosplayers from various nations compete to be crowned the best in the world. Additionally, the festival includes exhibition booths, a cosplay parade, and many other attractions that guarantee fun and entertainment for all attendees. It’s more than an event; it’s a celebration of creativity and the global cosplay community.
Prominent Appearances
This year, the World Cosplay Summit 2024 will gather an impressive lineup of guests from Japanese pop culture, who are not only revered for their skills and contributions to the industry but also for their influence and ability to inspire fans worldwide. From veterans of anime music to pioneers of video game design and cosplay stars, here are some of the talents that will elevate the event to new heights:
- Hironobu Kageyama – A renowned Japanese singer, especially known for performing themes from animes like “Dragon Ball Z.” His presence is highly anticipated for special performances at the event.
- Yosuke Saito – A video game producer recognized for his work on famous series from Square Enix, including “NieR” and “Dragon Quest.”
- YOKO TARO – A video game director, famous for his enigmatic personality and masks he wears in public, known mainly for his work on the “NieR” series.
- Saber – Winner at the Gamers8 event in Latvia, noted in the cosplay scene for his ability to recreate complex and detailed characters.
- Sayochuu – Also a winner at the Gamers8 event in Latvia, known for his creative interpretations and advanced techniques in cosplay.
- Clood – Co-winner of WCS 2023 in the UK, recognized for his prowess in creating authentic character costumes and portrayals.
- Tsupo – Co-winner alongside Clood in WCS 2023 from the UK, appreciated for his attention to detail and skill in bringing anime and game characters to life.
The presence of these guests at this year’s event not only guarantees a vibrant and enriching spectacle but also offers attendees a unique opportunity to interact with industry icons and learn from the best. Make sure to follow event updates for more announcements and prepare for an unforgettable experience that celebrates creativity, passion, and the community spirit of the cosplay world.
Highlighted Activities
This year, we are looking forward to a series of activities and events that will enrich the experience in Nagoya, including high-caliber competitions, educational workshops, and interactive spaces for photographers and cosplayers, among others. These activities are designed to capture the essence of cosplay and pop culture, allowing attendees to fully immerse themselves in a creative and dynamic environment:
- World Cosplay Championship: The main event where cosplayers from around the world will compete, showcasing their best costumes and performances.
- Photography Sessions at Oasis 21: Designated spaces for cosplayers and photographers to capture moments of the event at various iconic points of the venue.
- Exhibition at Oasis 21: Multiple booths related to pop culture will be offered, including manga, anime, and video games.
- Cosplay Parade on Osu Shopping Street: One of the most emblematic activities where participants parade through the streets showcasing their elaborate costumes.
- Cosplay Workshops and Discussion Panels: Cosplay experts will share their knowledge and techniques in various workshops and interactive panels.
- Live Performances and Special Talks: Live presentations on the main stage at Oasis 21, including music, dance, and talks with special guests from the world of anime and video games.
- Live Viewing of the Cosplay Championship: Visitors will be able to watch the competitions in real-time through large screens set up in the event area.
With such a diverse agenda that includes everything from the main championship to photography sessions and street parades, the event promises to be a spectacular meeting point for enthusiasts from all over the world. Make sure to stay updated for more about the panels, shows, and workshops that will be added to the program.
World Cosplay Summit in History
Over the years, the World Cosplay Summit has evolved and grown, marking significant milestones that have influenced not only the cosplay community but also global pop culture. From its humble beginning in 2003 to becoming a world-renowned competition, these are some of the highlights that have reflected the event’s evolution and impact on the international cosplay scene:
- 2003: The event began at the Rose Court Hotel in Nagoya with a discussion and photo session, including the participation of five cosplayers from Germany, France, and Italy.
- 2005: The format changed to a ranking system with preliminary events around the world, culminating in the first Cosplay Championship during the Expo 2005 in Aichi, Japan. France and Italy won in the group and individual categories, respectively.
- 2006: The championship moved to Oasis 21 in Nagoya, where a team from Brazil won the grand prize. The event was supported by Japanese ministries and attracted more than 5,000 spectators.
- 2007: Participation from Denmark, Mexico, and South Korea, increasing the total number of countries to 12, with approximately 10,000 people attending the championship.
- 2015: Significant expansion with 28 participating countries, leading the event to be nicknamed “the Olympics of cosplay.” An opening ceremony was held at Laguna Ten Bosch with a special demonstration of the Thousand Sunny ship from One Piece.
- 2023: A team from the UK won the championship and was awarded the Minister of Foreign Affairs of Japan Prize during the event held in Nagoya.
- Annual highlighted events: Each year, video and craftsmanship contests, as well as stage competitions, bring together participants from more than 40 countries and six continents.
These key events in the history of the World Cosplay Summit have not only demonstrated its ability to unite people from around the world but also highlighted how the art of cosplay and Japanese culture have transcended borders, creating a vibrant legacy that continues to inspire new generations of artists and fans. As the Summit continues to grow, it remains a unique testament to the power of creativity and the international community.
Why You Shouldn’t Miss WCS 2024?
If you have the opportunity to attend the World Cosplay Summit 2024 in Nagoya, Japan, you shouldn’t let it pass. This event stands out not only as a spectacular celebration of Japanese pop culture but also as a meeting point for cosplay enthusiasts from around the world. With activities ranging from cosplay competitions to workshops and panels with special guests, it offers a total immersion in the art of cosplay and the chance to learn from the best in the field. Moreover, the live interaction and photo sessions at iconic locations such as Oasis 21 and the streets of Osu provide unique moments to capture and share.
The World Cosplay Summit is more than an event; it is a cultural experience that fosters friendship and international collaboration through the shared passion for anime, manga, and video games. The exhibitions, cosplay parades, and the wide range of scheduled activities ensure that every attendee can find something that deeply resonates with their personal interests. Held in the vibrant heart of Nagoya, this summit is not only an opportunity to admire the impressive skills of cosplayers from all over the world but also to experience the hospitality and charm of one of Japan’s most dynamic cities.
So you know, while you plan your visit to Nagoya, feel free to drop by the comments to leave your opinion about this tremendous event that, without intending to use the clichéd words I often use a lot, “is just around the corner” lol XD. You know it, otaku, we’ll be reading you! 🙂
Info & Images Source: World Cosplay Summit Official Website
