News Summary
MetroCon, Florida’s largest anime convention, is set to take place at the Tampa Convention Center, featuring a plethora of activities for anime and gaming fans. Scheduled from July 25-27, the event will offer various panels, workshops, and entertainment, including a massive rave and gaming hub. The convention aims to provide an inclusive experience with opportunities for aspiring voice actors and special guests. General admission starts at $45, making it accessible for families and enthusiasts alike.
Tampa will host the highly anticipated MetroCon from July 25-27, 2025, at the Tampa Convention Center. This annual event, recognized as Florida’s largest anime convention, promises an exciting lineup of activities, entertainment, and opportunities tailored for anime and gaming enthusiasts.
The convention will be open to the public with general hours running from 10 a.m. to 2:30 a.m. on Friday, 9 a.m. to 2:30 a.m. on Saturday, and concluding on Sunday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. General admission registration will kick off on Friday at 9 a.m., allowing attendees to secure access for an array of spectacles planned throughout the weekend.
Ticket pricing for MetroCon is set with several options available at the door: $50 for a Friday single-day pass, $60 for Saturday, and $45 for Sunday. A three-day pass can be purchased for a total of $100. Additionally, children under 6 can enter for free when accompanied by a parent or guardian with a paid pass. For children aged 6-12, discounted passes are available for $30 for single days and $50 for a three-day access. It is mandated that all attendees aged 12 and younger must be accompanied by an adult at all times.
The convention is organized by a fan-based team dedicated to crafting an inclusive experience. One of the major highlights this year is the MetroCon Massive, recognized as the largest convention rave in the country. The rave will feature spectacular stadium lighting, impressive sound, and performances from talented DJs across the globe. Another notable aspect of the event is the METROcade, a burgeoning console and gaming hub with numerous video game setups and exclusive arcade cabinets aimed at gamers of all kinds.
MetroCon will offer a variety of panels, workshops, and unique entertainment centered on anime, video games, cosplay, and much more. Special events include a live fire-breathing and spinning show, along with an interactive Masquerade that combines theatrical performance with audience participation. This year, attendees can also engage with new themes, including a celebration of “One Piece” and a traditional summer Japanese festival.
Moreover, aspiring voice actors will find a valuable opportunity at the convention with open auditions hosted by Bang Zoom! Studios. Celebrated voice actors and professional cosplayers will also be in attendance, with notable guests including Tia Ballard, Brian Beacock, Ben Diskin, Jessie James Grelle, Michelle Rojas, and Emi Lo.
A wide array of activities will cater to diverse interests, featuring panels such as “Anime for Old People,” “Disability in Animation,” “How to Audition with Bang Zoom!,” “Fantasy, Graphic Novels, and Fiction Authorship,” and specialized workshops on cosplay embellishments. Attendees can also partake in the Hatsune Miku Look-Alike Contest and an entertaining segment titled “Terrible Fanfiction Dramatic Reading.”
The convention’s exhibit hall, spanning an impressive 100,000 square feet, will showcase numerous vendors, artists, and enticing exhibits. Additionally, the Carolina Manga Library will host a free library on-site, granting attendees access to over 5,000 manga and graphic novels.
For those interested in attending MetroCon 2025, additional information, including ticket purchases and event scheduling, can be found at metroconventions.com. With an expansive lineup of activities and guest appearances, this year’s convention is shaping up to be an unforgettable gathering for fans of anime, gaming, and pop culture.
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Additional Resources
- TBN Weekly – MetroCon Announcement
- Wikipedia: Anime Convention
- ABC Action News – Florida’s Largest Anime Convention
- Google Search: MetroCon
- Operation Rainfall – Robbie Daymond Interview
- Google Scholar: Anime Culture
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Anime
- Google News: Anime Convention
Author: STAFF HERE TAMPA WRITER
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