Anime USA shifts headquarters from Arlington to Chantilly for 27th year

The 27th edition of Anime USA will open on Nov. 20 at the Westfields Marriott Washington Dulles in Chantilly. The three-day event runs through Nov. 22, marking the first time the convention will be held outside of Arlington in recent years. The venue, located at 14750 Conference Center Drive, replaces the organization's previous location in the Sully District.

Clinton Carlson, the marketing director for the volunteer-led group, stated that the event focuses on creativity and community. "Anime USA has always been about more than anime," Carlson said. "It’s about creativity, community, and bringing people together through the things they love." The 2026 theme is "The RPG," which emphasizes role-playing games and fantasy connections to anime.

The program includes live performances, original artwork, and appearances by entertainment personalities. Attendees will have access to Artist’s Alley for meeting independent creators, as well as areas for video and tabletop gaming. Merchandise shopping is also part of the schedule. Elaborate handcrafted costumes are expected throughout the conference center.

The guest lineup includes the virtual YouTuber Ironmouse, voice actresses Anastasia Muñoz, Carrie Savage, and Natalie Van Sistine, and YouTuber Saberspark. Illustrator and costume designer Dessi-Desu, cartoonist Kevin Bolk, and the musical group Neo Atomic Motor are also scheduled to appear. Organizers noted that guest schedules are subject to change and will be updated online.

Admission for the event starts at $80. Children may qualify for discounted rates or free admission based on their age. Adam Hennessey, the 2026 convention chairman, explained the decision to move within the DC/NoVa area. "The move to Chantilly allows us to stay local to our long-time attendees, and hopefully give pop culture fans in this new area an outlet to express their interests, meet like-minded fans, and enjoy everything our show has to offer," Hennessey said.

Organizers cited several factors in selecting the Westfields-Marriott. These included expansive event and meeting spaces, complimentary parking, and proximity to Dulles International Airport. The Sully District’s diverse dining options, including Japanese restaurants and specialty cuisines, also influenced the site selection.

The event is now in its 27th year of operation. The move represents a new chapter for the group as it welcomes both longtime fans and first-time attendees to the new venue.