IKKiCON, the premier anime and Japanese culture convention of Austin, Texas, has announced a multi-year arrangement with Kalahari Resorts & Conventions in Round Rock, Texas, for events in 2023, 2024 and 2025.

"We are thrilled to be partnering with an incredible and gorgeous venue like the Kalahari Resort and Conventions," said Michael Loredo, IKKiCON founder and chairman. "Their convention space is ideal to showcase our captivating events such as the Cosplay Contest, and to continue producing innovative entertainment that the fans of anime have come to expect, in addition to featuring exceptional vendors, celebrity guests, panels, and so much more!"

"We are also so excited to have this all confirmed and looking forward to welcoming the IKKiCON to Kalahari these next three years!" said Jordyn Almendarez, Kalahari Resort and Conventions sales manager.

Kalahari Resort and Conventions offers convention attendees a substantial discounted room rate, four passes to the indoor water park, a plethora of on-site dining options and free wi-fi in all hotel rooms. The venue's convention center side has 200,000 sq. ft. of total space, two ballrooms, 16 meeting rooms and 50,000 sq. ft. of outdoor event space that includes an Event Barn and more.

IKKiCON has secured a trifecta of new dates beginning in 2023 through 2025. Its 2023 event will be held from January 20-22, 2023, its 2024 event will be held from January 19-21, 2024, and its 2025 event will be held from January 9-11, 2025.

IKKiCON programming will be running all weekend, including:

  • Featured events including the Cosplay Contest and Dances
  • An Exhibit Hall consisting of vendors of rare anime goods and talented artists from all over the country
  • Family-friendly events like console gaming, an art show, RPG sessions, card tournaments, miniature painting, a manga library, anime screenings, and karaoke
  • Celebrity guest appearances, including voiceover actors, award winning cosplayers, stand up comedians, and notable individual(s) of international acclaim
  • Original fan-submitted panels, discussions, and performances
  • A preview night event on Thursday is free for pre-registered weekend attendees, and for those who want to test the waters of what to expect over the weekend for a small fee
  • Contests with cash prizes, such as $1,000 for Best in Show at the Cosplay Contest, over $1,500 in winnings for video game competitions, and card tournaments equaling $1,000+
  • Yokai Night, an adult-only late night showcase of performances and Yokai Market (18+ vendors)
  • A HUGE GIVEAWAY. Previous IKKiCON events have given away a Nintendo Switch, a PlayStation 5, an Xbox, large-scale anime figures and countless other valuable items.

Tickets at a discounted rate, travel packages, merchandise, and the reservation link will be made available in the coming weeks at IKKiCON.com. Tickets at full price and merchandise will be available at the door. To stay up-to-date when tickets go on-sale, follow IKKiCON's social media platforms (Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok), or receive text alerts by texting "ikkicon" to (855)490-6690. Messaging rates may apply.

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