Convention calendar for Frankfurt and the Rhine-Main region

As a convention region, Frankfurt is larger than the city itself. Offenbach, Wiesbaden, Mainz, Darmstadt, Hanau, and Flörsheim are naturally part of the search for many fans. If you only enter “Frankfurt,” you can quickly miss a fitting anime event, Japanese festival, or cosplay meet-up just a few S-Bahn stops away.

Nekodanshi looks at events not only from the audience’s perspective. As cosplayers and an event agency, we pay attention to how a format is structured, which community it addresses, and whether the practical conditions suit a long day in costume. This page helps you plan the region realistically – without outdated schedules and without describing every event with the same superlatives.

Show current conventions and cosplay events in Frankfurt

What kinds of events are there in the Rhine-Main area?

The region combines anime and manga with film, literature, Japanese culture, gaming, and the classic comic-con atmosphere. Some events are clearly aimed at the fan community, while others offer a broader cultural program in which cosplay is only one part of the day. Both can be exciting if you know what to expect.

CosDay² and classic convention culture

CosDay² is closely connected to anime, manga, cosplay, and Japanese pop culture. Its community program, stage, and competitions make it an obvious destination if cosplay is meant to be the focus of your visit. Since admission, programming, and competition rules can change, always check the current edition directly with the organizer. Our CosDay² guide gives you an initial impression.

Japanese culture between Frankfurt and Offenbach

Main Matsuri combines traditional and modern Japanese culture and takes place in the Rhine-Main region outside the classic trade fair format. For cosplayers, it can be a lovely opportunity to combine cultural programming, food, and meeting people. However, a cultural festival is not a pure photo backdrop: consideration for other guests and the program itself is part of it. Read more in our Main Matsuri guide.

Film, anime, and special formats

With Nippon Connection, Frankfurt also has an internationally oriented festival for Japanese film. Cosplay is not necessarily the main reason to attend. For fans of Japanese culture, filmmakers, and curious visitors, this different perspective can be especially valuable. Our Nippon Connection guide helps you make sense of it.

Elsewhere in the Rhine-Main area, events such as Wie.MAI.KAI in Flörsheim or larger pop culture events in Wiesbaden add to the offering. Don’t decide based only on the city name, but on the program, travel options, and the atmosphere you are looking for.

How to plan the Rhine-Main region correctly

Search several place names: Frankfurt, Offenbach, Wiesbaden, Mainz, Darmstadt, and Flörsheim return different results.
Check your return trip: A short distance on the map can mean several changes late in the evening.
Consider the venue type: Shopping center, park, trade fair hall, and cultural center each place different demands on costumes, photo equipment, and props.
Check luggage rules: Large bags, suitcases, and camera equipment may be restricted or inspected at individual events.
Keep the weather in mind: At outdoor events, you’ll need sun or rain protection, water, and a safe solution for delicate costume parts.

Which event is right for you?

If you mainly want to meet other cosplayers and enjoy stage programming, a classic anime or cosplay convention is usually the right choice. If you are interested in Japanese culture beyond anime, festivals and markets may be more exciting. Film fans should look specifically for cinema programs, talks, and guests. For artists and collectors, it is especially worth checking exhibitor and creative listings.

You also don’t have to commit to the whole day. Especially at well-connected locations, a shorter, deliberately planned visit can be more relaxing than trying to take in everything from admission to the final program item.

Nekodanshi for events and brands in the Rhine-Main area

Frankfurt and the Rhine-Main region are especially versatile for brand communication, trade fairs, and cultural events. Nekodanshi develops cosplay walk acts, characters, props, workshops, content, and gamification as a connected experience. It is important to us that an appearance works not only in a photo, but also fits the space, the audience, and the event’s goals.

Planning a trade fair booth, a convention, or an activation? On our B2B page you’ll find suitable services and references. Cosplayers and photographers from the Rhine-Main area can submit their portfolio free of charge via NekoConnect.

Frequently asked questions about conventions in Frankfurt

Why does the overview also show Offenbach and Wiesbaden?

Because the convention scene in the Rhine-Main region works regionally. Many important events are outside Frankfurt city limits, but are easy to reach by public transport.

Is every Japanese festival a cosplay convention?

No. Japanese festivals can focus on traditional culture, music, food, and social interaction. Cosplay may be welcome, but it is not automatically the main focus. Find out in advance about the event’s character and rules.

How do I find current dates?

Use the Frankfurt convention calendar and also search for locations in the Rhine-Main area. The information provided by the respective organizer is binding.

Convention calendar for other cities

Planning outside the region too? Then you’ll find more local overviews at Nekodanshi:

Your event is missing? Through the Nekodanshi convention calendar, you can submit a date for free review.

Cosplay Conventions in Frankfurt am Main