RakuCon Manchester - A Japanese Popular Culture Convention

RakuCon, a Japanese Popular Culture Convention, returns to the heart of Manchester at Pendulum Hotel on the 22nd - 23rd August 2026. Don't miss out on an exciting weekend celebrating 5 years of RakuCon! Boasting an incredible array of artists and dealers, cosplayers, performances, panels, an anime and emo after party and so much more!

🌸 For full details about RakuCon Manchester, please head over to our website: www.rakucon.co.uk

When?

22nd - 23rd August 2026

Where?

NEW, BIGGER VENUE: Mercure Manchester Piccadilly, Portland St, Manchester M1 4PH

Opening times

• Saturday: 10am - 6pm
• Sunday: 12pm - 5pm

What to expect at RakuCon 2026 - 5th Anniversary Celebration

🌸 Amazing Dealers and Incredible Artists

We’ll have a wide variety of dealers and artists alike! We have a strict policy for absolutely no bootleg merch, so you can shop safely knowing you’re only buying from dealers with official anime figures and collectibles, as well as artists with unique styles for both their original and fanart items.

🌸 Performances, Workshops and Panels

Take a break from walking around the convention and watch some amazing performers! There will be a unique variety of performances over the weekend. There will also be a range of panels and workshops to watch and take part in!

🌸 Special Guests

We'll have some lovely special guests attending RakuCon Manchester! Stay tuned for our guest announcements! 

🌸 Games Room, Cosplay Competition and Cosplay Photo Areas

Expect a games room with a range of exciting consoles to play on, a cosplay competition, as well as a dedicated cosplay photo studio by Hover Media!

🌸 Anime Screenings

We'll have anime screenings, officially licenced from Sentai Filmworks! Expect a handpicked selection of series to watch over the weekend!

🌸 Anime and Emo After Party

We will be hosting an after party on the evening of Saturday 22nd August! You must be above the age of 18 to attend the after party. Stay tuned for after party tickets and venue details!

Venue

The event will be held at Mercure Manchester Piccadilly! The hotel is based right in the heart of Manchester so there’s plenty of car parking space nearby, as well as plenty of restaurants, bars, cafe’s and shops.

FAQ

For our frequently asked questions, please click here.