HanaCon 2026 Blooms in Towson: A Two-Day Celebration of Anime, Art, and Community
Get ready to mark your calendars, fans! Following a triumphant debut in Silver Spring last year, HanaCon is returning for its second annual iteration with exciting expansions. Scheduled for May 16 and 17, 2026, the convention is moving to the Sheraton Baltimore North Hotel in Towson, Maryland, and stretching into a full two-day extravaganza. This Black-owned and woman-founded event remains deeply committed to its core mission of fostering a welcoming, accessible, and creative environment. While the inaugural gathering drew over 1,000 enthusiasts, organizers have thoughtfully capped attendance at 1,500 for this year to ensure an intimate and high-quality experience for families, artists, and attendees alike. The star power for HanaCon 2026 is already shining bright with the announcement of two incredible Guests of Honor. Voice acting powerhouse Tiana Camacho will be in attendance, bringing her talents from iconic roles such as Ikora Rey in Destiny: Rising, Ermes Costello in JoJo's Bizarre Adventure, and various characters in Pokémon and Street Fighter. Joining her is the legendary Melodee M. Spevack, whose decades-spanning career includes beloved performances in Cowboy Bebop, Digimon, Robotech, and numerous video game titles like World of Warcraft and Diablo 4. With more special guests and opportunities promised to be revealed on a rolling basis, the lineup is shaping up to be a dream come true for animation and gaming aficionados. Beyond the guest panels, HanaCon 2026 promises a vibrant array of interactive programming designed to spark imagination. Attendees can look forward to live performances, a convention dance, and unique experiences like the PixelPop Maid Café and a dedicated Maker Space for hands-on creativity. Tabletop gaming enthusiasts will have plenty of room to roll dice, while the vendor hall will spotlight predominantly local artists, makers, and small businesses. The event will also feature a major cosplay contest with impressive prizes, including 3D printers, continuing the tradition of celebrating handmade artistry seen in the convention's custom-designed badges and trophies. Theresa Bean, the founder and convention chair, emphasized that this growth is intentional, ensuring that the community remains the heartbeat of the event. By expanding to Towson and adding a second day, HanaCon aims to deepen its engagement without losing the personal touch that defined its first year. Whether you are there to meet industry legends, showcase your craftsmanship, or simply immerse yourself in a safe and inclusive pop culture haven, HanaCon 2026 is poised to be a unforgettable weekend of connection and celebration in Maryland.
