Matsuricon embraces nerd culture's glow-up
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Cosplaying "Delicious in Dungeon" manga fans pose during a photo shoot. Photos: Courtesy of Matsuricon
Remember when "nerd" was an insult? The 10,000 proud nerds expected at the convention center for Matsuricon this weekend prove how far we've come.
Why it matters: Once-niche hobbies are now mainstream pop culture — from blockbuster superhero and video game films, to Netflix embracing anime and the rise of "barcades" and tabletop gaming.
- Cons are where nerd culture comes alive, and Columbus' scene is thriving.
Catch up quick: In its 20th year, Matsuricon — named after the Japanese word for "festival" — has grown from just a few hundred guests into a "medium-sized" anime con. Ticket sales are up 13% year-over-year.
- It boasts all the perks of big-ticket cons without the long lines and costs, spokesperson Lindsay Parker tells Axios.
Zoom in: The event features vendors, celebrity meet-and-greets, dozens of panel discussions, cosplaying, karaoke, Japanese weaponry demonstrations, and even a service dog that plays Dungeons & Dragons.
- It's a "safe and welcoming community" full of passionate people, Parker says.
The big picture: Columbus' other geeky gatherings include staples like the Origins Game Fair and Buckeye Comic Cons, plus newer players like Torg Gaming Expo and Cartoon Crossroads.
- The long-running Ohayocon is now in Dayton, but a 2024 dispute among organizers sparked an offshoot event, Sekaicon, in Newark — and a lawsuit.
- GalaxyCon landed in Columbus in 2022 and is already one of the national brand's biggest stops.
What she's saying: "It's kind of becoming cool to be a nerd, and it's funny to watch it happen in real time. I would be lying if I didn't say I was a bit jealous," Parker tells Axios.
- Growing up, liking anime or comics often meant bullying, especially for girls, and "things like this didn't exist," she says.
- But now she can help others "freely embrace their fandoms without shame or fear."
💠Alissa's thought bubble: Parker's words resonate. I'm excited to meet fellow gaming fans tomorrow during my first Matsuricon — and my first attempt at cosplaying.
- 👋 If you see me dressed as Final Fantasy's favorite flower peddler, say "hi!"
Stop by: Thursday-Sunday. Schedule. $40-$60 daily, $80 weekend pass. Kids under 11 free!
