Anime and cosplay fans have a brand new event to check out in Victoria this weekend.
Hillside Matsuri, a new one-day anime, manga and pop-culture convention, is taking over Hillside Shopping Centre on Saturday, September 26th.
Running from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., the event will bring together local artists, vendors, cosplay enthusiasts and collectors for a full day of activities throughout the shopping centre.
And yes, costumes are definitely encouraged!
Jade Chamberlin who is part of the team helping bring the new event to life and says it’s exciting to have another cosplay event taking place later in the year, as many Vancouver Island events are typically held during the first half.
“I’m so excited to be part of an amazing team bringing this event together,” said Chamberlin. “Thanks to Hillside and our sponsor BC Hobbies, we were able to make it a reality. I can’t wait to see everyone this weekend!”
One of the day’s biggest events will be a cosplay contest from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m., with prizes provided by BC Hobbies. There will also be a cosplay expert Q&A, photo opportunities and a Cosplay Storytime later in the afternoon.
Pokémon fans will also want to check out the Coastal Collector’s Market, which will feature Pokémon trading cards throughout the day.
The main stage schedule also includes Wotagei 101: Let’s Dance to the Rhythm! from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m., along with opening and closing ceremonies.
Hillside Matsuri is the latest in a series of cosplay-focused activities Hillside has hosted recently, including workshops on airbrushing props and costumes and a Felt Fairy Flower Hat workshop earlier this month.
Those planning to dress up should note that Hillside has a few rules for the event, including no gun props, metal or sharp-edged props, and restrictions on masks outside of the cosplay contest walk-on.
Props resembling weapons must also be checked at the volunteer booth.
More information and the full event schedule can be found on Hillside Centre’s website.
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Hillside Matsuri | CosPlay Event
- Where: Hillside Shopping Centre, 1644 Hillside Avenue
- When: Saturday, September 26th, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
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