Anime Convention Etiquette: The Complete Guide to Respectful and Enjoyable Con Attendance

Anime conventions represent vibrant celebrations of Japanese animation, manga, gaming, and related pop culture where thousands of fans gather to share their passion. These events create unique social environments where enthusiastic fandom meets real-world interaction, requiring attendees to navigate crowded spaces, interact with strangers, engage with creators, and participate in activities while respecting both individual boundaries and community norms.

Good convention etiquette isn’t about memorizing complicated rules or walking on eggshells—it’s about applying basic human decency in environments specifically designed for enthusiastic celebration. The challenge lies in maintaining respect and consideration when you’re excited, tired, surrounded by crowds, and immersed in an environment that encourages expression and enthusiasm.

Whether you’re a first-time attendee nervous about making mistakes or a convention veteran looking to refine your approach, understanding proper etiquette enhances your experience while contributing to the positive atmosphere that makes cons special. Poor etiquette—whether through ignorance or carelessness—can ruin experiences for yourself and others, create uncomfortable or unsafe situations, and contribute to problems that organizers struggle to manage.

This comprehensive guide covers every aspect of anime convention etiquette, from pre-convention preparation through post-event conduct. We’ll examine personal hygiene (yes, we’re talking about the infamous “con funk”), cosplay interactions, photography etiquette, panel behavior, purchasing from artists and vendors, hotel conduct, safety considerations, accessibility awareness, and how to handle uncomfortable situations. By the end, you’ll understand not just what to do, but why these practices matter and how they contribute to better conventions for everyone.

Understanding Convention Culture and Community Standards

Before diving into specific etiquette rules, understanding the broader context of convention culture helps explain why certain behaviors are encouraged or discouraged.

Anime conventions operate on an implicit social contract between attendees, guests, vendors, staff, and venues. This contract acknowledges that:

Shared Space Requires Compromise: Conventions pack thousands of people into limited space. Everyone must compromise on personal comfort for collective enjoyment. Your right to have fun ends where someone else’s right to comfort and safety begins.

Enthusiasm Is Encouraged, But Controlled: Conventions celebrate passionate fandom, but that passion must be expressed in ways that don’t infringe on others’ experiences. You can be excited without being disruptive.

Diversity Is Expected and Respected: Conventions attract people across age ranges, cultural backgrounds, experience levels, body types, and personal identities. This diversity is a strength that requires active respect and inclusion.

Staff and Volunteers Deserve Cooperation: Conventions run on tight budgets with mostly volunteer labor. Cooperating with staff isn’t just polite—it’s essential for events to function at all.

The Convention Is Not Your Living Room: Behavior appropriate in private spaces may not be appropriate in public convention settings. Adjust your conduct to shared space expectations.

Common Convention Problems Stemming From Poor Etiquette

Understanding what goes wrong helps explain why certain etiquette rules exist:

Hygiene Issues: “Con funk”—the unpleasant smell from inadequate hygiene in crowded spaces—represents conventions’ most notorious problem. It creates uncomfortable environments and health concerns.

Harassment and Boundary Violations: Inappropriate touching, unwanted photography, sexual comments, or aggressive behavior toward cosplayers and other attendees creates hostile environments and safety concerns.

Space Monopolization: Attendees blocking aisles, spreading belongings across seating areas, or camping in high-traffic locations create accessibility and flow problems.

Theft: Unfortunately, conventions see theft from artist tables, vendor booths, and other attendees’ belongings. This creates financial harm and erodes trust within the community.

Noise Disruption: Excessive noise in inappropriate locations (hotel hallways at 3 AM, during panels, in quiet spaces) disturbs others and can result in venue complaints.

Line Cutting and Queue Disruption: Unfair line behavior creates conflict and extends wait times for everyone while rewarding poor behavior.

Property Damage: To venues and convention spaces creates financial liability and jeopardizes future events at those locations.

Understanding these problems helps frame why specific etiquette rules matter—they’re not arbitrary restrictions but responses to real issues that affect everyone’s experience.

The “Wheaton’s Law” Principle

Internet personality Wil Wheaton famously articulated “Wheaton’s Law: Don’t be a dick.” This simple principle encompasses most convention etiquette. When uncertain about whether behavior is appropriate, ask yourself: “Is this being a dick?” If the answer is yes or maybe, reconsider your approach.

Pre-Convention Preparation: Setting Yourself Up for Success

Good convention etiquette actually begins before you arrive at the venue. Proper preparation prevents many common problems.

Understanding Convention Rules and Policies

Read the Convention’s Code of Conduct: Every convention publishes rules covering acceptable behavior, prohibited items, cosplay weapon policies, photography restrictions, and harassment policies. Read these before attending—ignorance isn’t an acceptable excuse for violations.

Understand the Weapons Policy: If you’re bringing prop weapons or armor as part of a cosplay, conventions have strict policies about materials, sharp edges, projectiles, and peace bonding (marking approved weapons). Violating weapons policies can result in immediate ejection and potentially criminal charges if your prop resembles an actual weapon.

Know Photography and Recording Rules: Some conventions prohibit flash photography in certain areas, ban recording during specific panels, or have rules about photographing dealer rooms. Understanding these prevents conflicts and potential ejection.

Check Age Restrictions: Conventions often have age-restricted panels, events, or areas (18+ content, alcohol service areas). Respect these restrictions—attempting to sneak into age-restricted events creates liability issues for conventions.

Review Hotel Policies If Applicable: If staying at the convention hotel, understand their specific policies about noise, parties, room occupancy limits, and common area use. Hotels can ban conventions from returning if attendees consistently violate policies.

Preparing Your Body and Belongings

Plan for Hygiene: Pack deodorant, body wipes, breath mints, and plan daily showers. Conventions are physically demanding and crowded—your hygiene affects everyone around you.

Prepare Comfortable Footwear: You’ll walk miles inside convention centers. Uncomfortable shoes lead to fatigue that makes you irritable and less considerate of others.

Pack Snacks and Water: Hunger and dehydration make people cranky and less patient. Having emergency snacks prevents hanger-fueled poor decisions.

Bring Appropriate Payment: Some vendors only accept cash; others take cards. Having payment ready prevents holding up lines while you search for money or argue about accepted payment methods.

Prepare Emergency Supplies: Pain relievers, bandages, phone chargers, emergency contacts, and any necessary medications. Being prepared for minor problems prevents small issues from ruining your day or creating situations where you become others’ problem.

The Critical Issue: Personal Hygiene at Conventions

Let’s address the elephant in the convention center: personal hygiene is anime convention etiquette’s most important and most frequently violated principle. “Con funk”—the distinctive unpleasant smell in crowded convention spaces—is so notorious it’s become a meme, but it represents a serious problem affecting everyone’s experience.

Why Convention Hygiene Matters More Than Normal

Crowd Density: Conventions pack thousands of people into enclosed spaces with limited ventilation. Body odor that might dissipate in open air becomes concentrated and unavoidable.

Extended Exposure: Unlike passing someone on the street, convention attendees spend hours in close proximity. What might be tolerable for moments becomes unbearable over time.

Physical Activity: Conventions involve extensive walking, standing, carrying bags, and wearing elaborate costumes. This physical exertion increases sweating and body odor beyond typical daily activity.

Multi-Day Events: Many conventions run three or four days. Without daily hygiene maintenance, the problem compounds exponentially each day.

Shared Spaces: Lines, elevators, panels, and crowded dealer rooms force close physical proximity where poor hygiene affects numerous people simultaneously.

The Non-Negotiable Hygiene Requirements

Daily Showers: Take a full shower every single day of the convention, morning and evening if possible. This isn’t optional. The excuse “I was too tired” doesn’t make you smell better to the people around you.

Fresh Clothing Daily: Wear clean clothes each day. Laundry facilities exist in hotels if you’re packing light. Rewearing the same shirt multiple days concentrates odors.

Deodorant Application: Apply deodorant (preferably antiperspirant) every morning and reapply during the day. Keep a travel-size deodorant in your bag. The moment you think “I should reapply,” do it immediately.

Dental Hygiene: Brush teeth morning and evening. Use mints or gum if eating odorous foods. Close conversation with poor breath is unpleasant and avoidable.

Foot Care: Conventions involve extensive walking in often-warm environments. Wear clean socks daily, use foot powder if prone to foot odor, and consider bringing an extra pair of socks to change into mid-day.

Cosplay Cleaning: If wearing elaborate costumes, clean them between convention days if possible. At minimum, use fabric refresher spray and air them out overnight. Costumes that can’t be washed should be sprayed with antibacterial fabric spray.

Body Wipes for Emergencies: Carry unscented body wipes for quick cleanups when showers aren’t immediately accessible. These aren’t substitutes for showers but help manage hygiene between them.

Special Hygiene Considerations for Cosplayers

Wig Maintenance: Wigs worn all day absorb sweat and oils. Air them out overnight, use wig deodorizer spray, and consider wig caps that absorb sweat.

Costume Armor and Props: Non-fabric cosplay pieces should be wiped down with disinfectant between wearing days. They don’t get washed and can harbor bacteria.

Body Paint and Makeup: Remove completely each night. Sleeping in body paint or makeup causes skin problems and transfers to hotel linens, causing damage charges.

Undergarments Under Costumes: Wear appropriate undergarments that wick moisture even if they’re not visible. Cotton absorbs sweat; moisture-wicking synthetic materials are better for all-day wear.

Shoe Inserts and Odor Control: If costume shoes aren’t well-ventilated, use activated charcoal inserts or foot deodorizer spray.

Addressing the “Why Do I Need to Shower?” Pushback

Some attendees—often younger or first-time con-goers—don’t understand why convention hygiene standards exceed their normal routine. Here’s why:

It’s About Others, Not Just You: You might be accustomed to your own scent and not notice it. Others are not. In crowded spaces, your hygiene becomes everyone else’s problem.

Normal Routines Don’t Account for Con Activity: If you normally shower every other day in your routine life, that schedule doesn’t accommodate the physical demands and close proximity of conventions.

You Representing the Community: Poor hygiene at conventions reinforces negative stereotypes about anime fans and geek culture, affecting how venues and the public perceive the entire community.

Health Considerations: Poor hygiene in crowded spaces increases disease transmission. “Con crud”—the respiratory illness many attendees develop after conventions—spreads more easily in unhygienic environments.

What to Do If Someone Smells

If you’re next to someone with severe body odor:

Don’t Loudly Comment: Publicly shaming someone is cruel and ineffective. They’re likely aware and embarrassed.

Politely Relocate: If in a line or moveable situation, quietly move away. You’re not required to suffer.

Inform Convention Staff If Severe: If someone’s hygiene creates genuinely unbearable conditions in enclosed spaces (elevators, small panel rooms), quietly inform staff. They’re trained to handle this delicately.

Offer Kindly If You Know Them: If you’re with friends who have hygiene issues, privately and kindly mention it: “Hey, it’s really hot in here—want to grab a bathroom break and freshen up?” Give them an excuse that doesn’t shame them publicly.

Cosplay Etiquette: Respecting Costumes and the People Wearing Them

Cosplay (costume play) represents a central convention attraction, with attendees spending hundreds of hours and dollars creating elaborate costumes. Proper cosplay etiquette respects this effort while acknowledging that cosplayers are people, not props.

The phrase “Cosplay is not consent” has become the cosplay community’s mantra. It means:

No Unwanted Touching: Never touch a cosplayer or their costume without explicit permission. This includes their props, wigs, armor, and any part of their person. The costume’s impressiveness doesn’t grant you touching privileges.

No Unwanted Photography: Don’t take photos without asking. Cosplayers put effort into their costumes and generally enjoy photos, but they deserve the courtesy of being asked and the right to decline.

No Sexual Harassment: A revealing or form-fitting costume doesn’t invite sexual comments, advances, or inappropriate photography. Character choice doesn’t imply anything about the cosplayer’s availability or interest in sexual attention.

No Assumption of Availability: Cosplayers at conventions are attending the event, not serving as your personal photo opportunity. They have schedules, want to see panels, need to eat and rest—they’re not obligated to stop for every photo request.

No Following or Stalking: If you admire a cosplayer, a single polite interaction is appropriate. Following them around the convention or repeatedly seeking them out crosses into harassment.

Proper Photography Etiquette

Always Ask First: Approach politely with “Excuse me, may I take your photo?” or “Would you mind if I got a picture of your cosplay?” Give them time to respond.

Accept “No” Gracefully: If they decline, respond with “No problem, thanks anyway!” and move on immediately. Don’t argue, guilt trip, or ask why. Reasons might include: they’re tired, rushing to an event, the costume is damaged, they’re eating, or they simply don’t want to.

Give Them Time to Pose: Once they agree, give them a moment to get into position and character. Don’t just snap while they’re still processing your request.

Take the Photo Quickly: Frame your shot, take 2-3 photos for backup, and move on. Don’t take fifteen minutes adjusting angles while they stand there.

Show Appreciation: After the photo, thank them genuinely. “That looks amazing!” or “Your craftsmanship is incredible!” makes someone’s day.

Respect Location Restrictions: Don’t ask cosplayers to pose in dangerous locations (stairs, doorways, traffic areas) or places where photography is restricted.

Ask Before Posting Online: If you’ll post photos on social media, ask if they want to be tagged or credited. Many cosplayers appreciate tags to their cosplay accounts; others prefer privacy.

No Creepshots: Never take photos up skirts, down shirts, or focused on specific body parts. This is harassment and potentially illegal. Photos should focus on the costume and the cosplayer’s face (if they’re facing you).

Flash Considerations: Ask before using flash, especially with elaborate makeup or reflective materials. Flash can ruin carefully applied makeup or create unflattering effects on costumes.

Interacting With Cosplayers

Comment on the Costume, Not Their Body: “Your armor looks incredible—what material did you use?” is great. “You’re so hot in that costume” is inappropriate. Focus on craftsmanship, character accuracy, or creative choices.

Ask About Their Work: Cosplayers love discussing their process. “How long did this take?” or “What was the hardest part?” opens positive conversation.

Know When to End Conversations: If the cosplayer seems tired, indicates they need to go, or gives short answers, wrap up politely. “Well, thanks for taking the time—enjoy your con!” lets them leave without being rude.

Don’t Touch Props or Costumes: Even during photos, keep your hands to yourself unless specifically invited to interact with the costume. Props can be fragile; costumes expensive.

Respect Their Physical Needs: If a cosplayer mentions they’re hot, tired, or need to sit, acknowledge it sympathetically and let them go. Don’t trap them in extended conversations when they’ve indicated discomfort.

Boundaries for Cosplayers Themselves

You Can Say No: You’re never obligated to stop for photos, answer questions, or engage with anyone. “Sorry, I’m rushing to a panel!” or simply “Not right now, thanks” are complete responses.

You Can Set Limitations: “Quick photos only, I can’t pose long” or “No hugs, please” are entirely acceptable boundaries.

Report Harassment Immediately: If someone touches you without permission, follows you, makes sexual comments, or takes creepshots, report them to convention security immediately. You deserve to feel safe.

Take Breaks: Remove yourself from public areas when you need rest. Finding a quiet corner or returning to your hotel room prevents burnout and uncomfortable interactions when you’re too exhausted to maintain boundaries.

Photography and Recording: Respecting Privacy and Content Rules

Beyond cosplay photography, conventions involve numerous photography and recording situations requiring specific etiquette.

General Photography Guidelines

Ask Before Photographing Anyone: Not just cosplayers—anyone. Some attendees prefer not being in photos for privacy, professional, or personal reasons.

Be Aware of Your Background: When photographing cosplayers, check that you’re not inadvertently capturing people in the background who didn’t consent. In crowded areas, this is unavoidable, but minimize it when possible.

Don’t Block Traffic for Photos: Step out of main walkways when taking photos. Other attendees need to pass, and blocking aisles creates congestion and frustration.

Respect “No Photography” Signs: Certain areas prohibit photography for various reasons (artist alley rules, vendor preferences, copyright concerns). Respect these restrictions.

Don’t Photograph People Eating: Convention food courts see cosplayers eating in costume. Photos while they’re eating are unflattering and uncomfortable—let them eat in peace.

Panel and Event Recording Rules

Default to No Recording: Unless explicitly stated that recording is permitted, don’t record panels, performances, or events.

Special Guests Deserve Extra Respect: Voice actors, artists, and other industry guests often prohibit recording to protect their intellectual property, prevent spoilers, or maintain control over their content and image.

If Recording Is Permitted: Keep your screen brightness low (it’s distracting to people behind you), avoid obstructing others’ views, and don’t provide running commentary during the event.

Respect Embargo Requests: Some panels show exclusive content with requests not to share on social media until specific dates. Respecting these embargoes maintains positive relationships between conventions and industry guests.

Vendor and Artist Area Photography

Always Ask Before Photographing Art: Artists create original work and deserve control over how it’s photographed and shared. Some allow photos; others don’t. Always ask.

Don’t Photograph to Avoid Purchasing: Taking photos of artwork or merchandise to reproduce it later or remember what you saw is disrespectful to creators who make their living from these sales.

Respect Copyright: Just because you can photograph something doesn’t mean you should share it online. Fan art and derivative works exist in legal gray areas that creators navigate carefully—don’t complicate their situations by widely distributing photos of their work without permission.

Conventions force close physical proximity, but that doesn’t negate the importance of personal space and consent.

Managing Personal Space in Crowds

Be Aware of Your Belongings: Backpacks and large bags extend your physical footprint. In crowded areas, carry bags in front of you or under your arm rather than on your back where you can’t sense if you’re hitting people.

Announce When Passing: A polite “Excuse me” or “Coming through, sorry” helps people know you’re trying to pass and gives them a chance to make space.

Don’t Push or Shove: Even in crowded spaces, aggressive pushing is unnecessary and rude. Wait a moment for people to shift naturally rather than forcing your way through.

Respect Seated Space: If someone’s bag is on an adjacent seat in a crowded area, you can politely ask “Is this seat taken?” but respect their answer. They might be saving it for a friend.

Move Away From High-Traffic Areas: If stopping to talk, check your phone, or rest, move out of main walkways to the sides or into open spaces where you’re not obstructing flow.

No Unexpected Touching: Even friendly gestures like tapping someone’s shoulder or patting their back require more care at conventions. Many attendees have sensory issues, trauma histories, or simply prefer not being touched by strangers.

Ask Before Hugging: Even if you’ve met someone before or interacted online, ask before physical greetings. “Hug?” with arms slightly open gives them the choice to accept or offer an alternative like a wave or fist bump.

Respect Cultural Differences: Different cultures have varying norms about personal space and touch. What’s friendly in one context might be uncomfortable in another.

Watch for Distress Signals: If someone steps back, crosses their arms, or otherwise indicates discomfort, increase distance immediately and apologize if you’ve invaded their space.

Supporting Attendees With Disabilities or Special Needs

Don’t Touch Mobility Devices: Wheelchairs, canes, service animal harnesses, and other assistive devices are extensions of someone’s body—don’t touch or lean on them without permission.

Make Space Proactively: If you see someone using mobility aids navigating crowds, create space without making a big show of it. A casual step aside allows them to pass with dignity.

Don’t Pet or Distract Service Animals: Service animals are working and shouldn’t be distracted. Don’t call to them, pet them, or make eye contact without asking their handler first.

Be Patient With Communication Differences: Some attendees may be nonverbal, have speech impediments, or communicate differently. Be patient and respectful—conventions are for everyone.

Don’t Assume Someone’s Needs: If someone appears to need assistance, ask “Can I help?” but accept their answer. Many people with disabilities don’t require or want assistance and are perfectly capable of advocating for themselves if they do.

Line Etiquette: Waiting Your Turn Gracefully

Conventions involve extensive waiting in lines—for panels, autographs, vendors, registration, and more. Line etiquette is crucial for fairness and efficiency.

Basic Line Rules

Don’t Cut: This should be obvious, but line cutting remains a persistent problem. If you see a line forming, go to its end—not halfway through or near the front.

The Exception: Meeting Your Group: If your friend held a spot while you used the bathroom or grabbed food, that’s generally acceptable for 1-2 people rejoining their group. However, having one person hold a spot for six others isn’t.

Save Spots Responsibly: If you must leave the line temporarily (bathroom emergency, urgent phone call), ask the people immediately around you to acknowledge your place. “I need to run to the restroom—I’ll be right back” helps them recognize you when you return.

Don’t Send Scouts: Having one person scout multiple lines to save your place while you finish something else is unfair to others waiting.

Respect Line Caps: Some panels and events have capacity limits with lines being capped. If you arrive after the line is capped, accept it gracefully—the alternative is fire code violations.

Conduct While in Line

Keep Moving: As the line advances, step forward promptly. Gaps in lines create confusion about where it ends and delay everyone.

Keep Conversations Moderate: You’ll likely chat with friends while waiting, but keep volume reasonable. Shouting, continuous loud laughter, or disruptive behavior disturbs everyone.

Don’t Spread Out: Stay relatively close to your immediate group rather than spreading across the hallway. This keeps the line compact and allows others to navigate around it.

Be Patient With Slow Progress: Lines sometimes move frustratingly slowly. Complaining loudly helps nobody—convention staff are doing their best.

Prepare Ahead: If you’re in a line to purchase something or check in, have your payment, ID, or confirmation ready before reaching the front. Fumbling through your bag while everyone waits is inconsiderate.

Respect Line Staff: Con staff managing lines have difficult jobs. Follow their instructions without arguing—they’re dealing with hundreds of people and can’t make exceptions.

Panel and Event Etiquette: Being a Good Audience Member

Panels, screenings, performances, and other events require specific etiquette to ensure everyone can enjoy them.

Arriving and Seating

Arrive Early for Popular Panels: If you want good seats, arrive 15-30 minutes early. Arriving at the start time and expecting front-row seats is unrealistic.

Don’t Save Excessive Seats: Saving 1-2 adjacent seats for friends who are parking or using the restroom is reasonable. Saving an entire row is not.

Move to the Center: If you’re among the first seated, move toward the center of rows rather than taking an aisle seat. This prevents late arrivals from awkwardly climbing over everyone.

Be Efficient When Seating: If entering a full or filling row, move quickly to your seat rather than stopping to chat or slowly arranging your belongings while blocking others.

During the Panel or Event

Silence Phones: Switch phones to silent or vibrate. The “silent” mode—not just turning the volume down. Notification sounds, even quiet ones, are disruptive.

Don’t Have Full Conversations: Occasional brief whispers to your immediate neighbor are fine, but extended conversations should wait until after. You’re not just distracting yourself—you’re distracting everyone around you.

Don’t Provide Running Commentary: Your reactions, predictions, or explanations aren’t why people came. Keep thoughts to yourself or save them for afterward.

Avoid Eating Loud Foods: If panels allow food (many don’t), choose quiet options. Crinkling bags, crunching chips, or slurping drinks creates noise.

Don’t Block Views: Remove hats, tall headpieces from cosplay, or anything obstructing people behind you. If wearing a large costume, sit toward the back or sides.

Respect Q&A Guidelines: Wait for the microphone, keep questions concise, don’t make speeches disguised as questions, and don’t ask previously answered questions. Q&As are for genuine questions, not showing off your knowledge or telling stories about yourself.

Don’t Leave Early Disruptively: If you must leave before the end, do so quietly between segments or topics, not during key moments. Sit near aisles if you know you’ll need to leave early.

After the Event

Don’t Crowd Exits: File out systematically rather than rushing. Crowding exits creates dangerous bottlenecks.

Take Your Trash: Convention staff and cleaning crews appreciate attendees who clean up after themselves. Take cups, food wrappers, and other trash with you.

Don’t Mob the Guests: If meeting guests after panels, form an organized line rather than mobbing them. They’re more likely to be friendly and generous with time when not overwhelmed.

Dealer’s Room and Artist Alley: Supporting Creators and Vendors Respectfully

Purchasing merchandise and art represents a major convention activity. Proper etiquette in these spaces supports creators while ensuring fair access for all attendees.

Understanding Dealer’s Room vs. Artist Alley

Dealer’s Room: Typically features professional vendors selling licensed merchandise, imported goods, commercial products, and established businesses. These vendors often have employees and significant inventory.

Artist Alley: Features independent artists selling original work, fan art, commissions, and handmade items. These are often single creators or small teams who make their living (or supplement income) through their art.

The distinction matters because different etiquette considerations apply to each, though much overlaps.

General Shopping Etiquette

Look But Don’t Touch Without Permission: Some items are delicate, expensive, or displayed in ways that make handling problematic. If you want a closer look, ask “May I pick this up?” first.

Don’t Block Aisles: When browsing, stay aware of your space. Don’t stop in the middle of traffic flow or spread out in ways that prevent others from passing or browsing.

Be Decisive: It’s fine to browse and consider purchases, but don’t monopolize a vendor’s time with indecision if others are waiting. Step aside to think if you need extended contemplation time.

Respect Pricing: Prices are set by vendors based on their costs, time, and market. Aggressive haggling or complaints about pricing is disrespectful. If you can’t afford something, that’s fine—but don’t make it the vendor’s problem.

Gentle Negotiation Sometimes Acceptable: In some cases, especially with dealers (not artists), polite inquiries like “Is there any flexibility on this price?” or “Do you offer discounts for multiple items?” are acceptable. However, accept “No” immediately and graciously.

Have Payment Ready: Know your budget, bring appropriate payment methods (many artists are cash-only), and have it ready when making purchases. Fumbling through your wallet while others wait is inconsiderate.

Don’t Eat or Drink Near Art: Food and drinks pose spill risks to vendors’ inventory. Keep food and beverages away from tables, or better yet, finish them before entering purchasing areas.

Artist Alley Specific Etiquette

Understand Artists Are Selling Their Work and Time: Unlike dealers selling mass-produced merchandise, artists are selling pieces they created by hand. Respect the labor, skill, and time invested.

Ask Before Photographing: Never photograph art without permission. Artists may allow photos, but many don’t for various reasons (copyright concerns, quality control, protecting their work from reproduction).

Don’t Commission Just to Haggle: Commission pricing reflects artists’ skill, time, and expenses. If you can’t afford the quoted price, say “Thank you, but that’s out of my budget” rather than trying to negotiate down or complaining about cost.

Respect Queue Systems: Popular artists may have people waiting to purchase or discuss commissions. Don’t interrupt ongoing transactions or conversations—wait your turn.

Keep Critiques to Yourself: If you don’t like someone’s art style, simply move on. Don’t offer unsolicited criticism or explain why you’re not buying. Artists aren’t asking for your feedback.

Support Artists When Possible: If you enjoy someone’s work but can’t afford physical pieces, following them on social media, sharing their work (with credit), or purchasing smaller items like stickers or prints provides meaningful support.

Understand Commission Timelines: Convention commissions often take days or weeks to complete after the con. Have realistic expectations about turnaround time.

What Not to Do in Vendor Areas

Don’t Compare Prices Loudly: “I saw this cheaper online” or “Another booth has better prices” is rude. Purchase where you choose, but don’t denigrate vendors aloud.

Don’t Treat Vendors as Google: Asking occasional questions about products is fine, but don’t interrogate vendors with extensive questions when you have no intention of purchasing. They’re there to sell, not provide free education.

Don’t Let Children Destroy Displays: If you bring children, supervise them closely. Running, touching everything, or knocking over displays creates problems for vendors.

Don’t Attempt to Sell to Vendors: Unless a vendor explicitly indicates they’re purchasing collections, don’t try to sell them your personal items.

Don’t Block Access: If trying to make a difficult decision, step aside rather than standing directly in front of a table, preventing others from browsing or purchasing.

Hotel and After-Hours Etiquette: Respecting Shared Spaces

For multi-day conventions, many attendees stay at nearby hotels—often the convention hotel itself. Hotel etiquette is crucial for maintaining good relationships between conventions and venues.

Room and Hallway Conduct

Quiet Hours Are Real: Hotels have quiet hours (typically 10 PM or 11 PM onward). Even if you’re excited and awake, others need sleep. Keep voices and music volume down.

Don’t Have Hallway Parties: Hotel hallways are not party spaces. Extended conversations, gatherings, or activities in hallways disturb guests in nearby rooms and violate hotel policies.

Respect Room Occupancy Limits: Hotels set maximum occupancy for fire safety and resource management. Don’t pack fifteen people into a room rated for four—it’s illegal and jeopardizes the hotel’s relationship with the convention.

Control Your Room Noise: Music, TV, loud conversations, and ahem other activities create noise that travels through walls and floors. Be considerate of neighbors.

Don’t Prop Doors Open: Fire doors and stairwell doors exist for safety. Propping them open violates fire codes and creates security risks.

Elevator Etiquette

Let People Exit First: Wait for people to exit before entering elevators. Trying to push in while others are exiting creates chaos.

Make Room: If the elevator is crowded, make space by moving toward the back or sides. Don’t cluster near the door.

Limit Large Groups: If you have a large group, consider splitting into multiple elevator trips rather than monopolizing an entire car.

Priority for Mobility Needs: If someone using a wheelchair or mobility aid needs the elevator, make space and don’t complain about waiting for another car.

Pool and Common Area Etiquette

Follow Pool Rules: Hotels post pool rules for safety. Follow them, especially regarding diving, running, and supervision of children.

Clean Up After Yourself: Take your trash, wipe up spills, and leave spaces as you found them.

Be Aware of Non-Con Guests: Hotels host multiple groups. Not everyone in the pool or common areas is attending the convention. Keep your enthusiasm appropriate for mixed company.

Party Etiquette

Room Parties Require Host Consent: Don’t show up to someone’s room party without being invited. “Heard there was a party” isn’t an invitation.

Respect Capacity and Rules: If hosts set limits (room capacity, BYOB vs. provided drinks, age restrictions), respect them.

Don’t Destroy Hotel Property: Damage to furniture, walls, fixtures, or other hotel property creates financial liability and can result in the convention being banned from the venue.

Leave When Asked: If hosts indicate the party is ending or ask people to leave, do so promptly.

Understand Liability: In many places, providing alcohol to minors creates serious legal liability. Don’t pressure party hosts to ignore age restrictions.

Safety, Harassment, and Emergency Protocols

Understanding how to stay safe and respond to emergencies or harassment is crucial convention knowledge.

Personal Safety Practices

Stay Aware: Even in generally safe convention environments, maintain situational awareness. Don’t walk alone in isolated areas while distracted by your phone.

Buddy System: Traveling with friends, especially during evening hours or when leaving the venue, provides safety through numbers.

Trust Your Instincts: If someone or a situation makes you uncomfortable, remove yourself. You don’t owe anyone the benefit of the doubt at the cost of your safety.

Know Emergency Contacts: Save convention security’s contact information in your phone. Know where security stations are located.

Secure Your Belongings: Conventions see theft. Keep valuables with you, use hotel safes for expensive items when possible, and don’t leave bags unattended.

Recognizing and Reporting Harassment

What Constitutes Harassment: Unwanted physical contact, sexual comments or advances, following/stalking, repeated unwanted attention after being asked to stop, taking photos without consent, or discriminatory behavior based on protected characteristics.

How to Report: Conventions have security teams and harassment policies. Report harassment immediately to:

Convention security (usually wearing identifying clothing)
Convention information desk
Designated “safe space” staff
Hotel security if on hotel property

What Information to Provide: Be prepared to describe what happened, when, where, what the person looked like (physical description, what they were wearing), and any witnesses.

Take It Seriously: Don’t minimize your experience or worry about “making a big deal.” If something made you uncomfortable or unsafe, it should be reported.

If You Witness Harassment

Intervene Safely: If you see harassment and can safely intervene (checking on the person, providing distraction, asking if they need help), do so.

Don’t Escalate: Physical confrontation with harassers can escalate dangerous situations. Alert security rather than confronting aggressors directly unless the situation is immediately dangerous.

Be a Witness: If you witness harassment, be prepared to provide a statement to security. Corroborating witnesses strengthen cases against harassers.

Support the Victim: Ask what they need—accompaniment to security, a friend to talk to, help filing a report, or simply someone to stand nearby while they process what happened.

Accessibility and Inclusivity: Making Conventions Welcoming for Everyone

Good etiquette includes being conscious of how your behavior affects attendees with different needs and abilities.

Physical Accessibility Considerations

Respect Reserved Seating: Many panels reserve seating for attendees with disabilities. Don’t sit in these seats unless they’re offered after the event begins and no one needs them.

Don’t Block Accessibility Ramps or Elevators: These are essential infrastructure for attendees with mobility issues. Socializing on ramps or monopolizing elevators prevents access.

Be Patient: Sometimes accommodating attendees with disabilities takes extra time (boarding elevators, navigating crowds, seating arrangements). This patience benefits everyone.

Ask Before “Helping”: Many people with disabilities don’t need or want unsolicited assistance. If someone appears to struggle, ask “Can I help with anything?” but respect if they decline.

Sensory Accessibility

Be Mindful of Sensory Overload: Conventions are overwhelming sensory environments. Some attendees have autism, ADHD, anxiety disorders, or other conditions making sensory input challenging.

Respect Quiet Spaces: Many conventions designate quiet rooms or low-sensory spaces. Respect these areas’ purpose—no loud conversations, bright lights, or overwhelming stimuli.

Don’t Touch Without Permission: This matters especially for people with sensory processing differences who may find unexpected touch painful or overwhelming.

Be Patient With Different Communication Styles: Some people may take longer to process questions, need things repeated, or communicate differently. This doesn’t make them stupid or unworthy of patience.

Don’t Mock or Imitate: Making fun of speech patterns, physical mannerisms, or communication differences is cruel and creates hostile environments.

Understand Not Everyone Reads Social Cues Similarly: Some attendees may miss hints or continue conversations past when neurotypical people would have ended them. Direct, kind communication helps more than expecting them to “pick up on” subtle cues.

Creating Inclusive Spaces

Use Inclusive Language: Avoid assuming people’s pronouns, making jokes at marginalized groups’ expense, or using slurs (even “reclaimed” ones you might use in your own community—conventions include diverse people).

Welcome New Fans: Not everyone has encyclopedic knowledge of every series. Welcome questions from new fans rather than gatekeeping or testing their “real fan” credentials.

Respect Diverse Interpretations: People engage with media differently. Someone’s different interpretation or lesser knowledge doesn’t make them a fake fan worthy of ridicule.

Conventions generate massive social media activity. Digital etiquette ensures online behavior doesn’t create real-world problems.

Posting Photos and Content

Obtain Consent: Before posting photos of other people (not just cosplayers), ensure they consented to photography and are comfortable with online sharing.

Tag Appropriately: If posting cosplay photos, ask if the cosplayer wants to be tagged or credited. Many maintain separate cosplay accounts they’d appreciate tags to.

Don’t Post Unflattering Photos: That hilarious photo of someone looking terrible, mid-sneeze, or in an unflattering angle shouldn’t be shared publicly. It’s mean-spirited.

Respect “No Social Media” Requests: Some panels or events request attendees not post on social media (spoilers, exclusive content). Honor these requests.

Credit Creators: If posting photos of art or merchandise, credit the artist or creator when possible.

Online Discussion and Criticism

Don’t Subtweet or Vaguebook: Posting vague complaints about “some people at the con” creates drama without allowing for resolution. If you have issues, address them directly or move on.

Avoid Doxxing or Calling Out: If someone behaved badly, report them to convention security rather than publicly identifying them online (unless they’re a serious predator requiring community warning).

Be Honest But Kind in Reviews: Posting about your convention experience is fine, but be fair. Distinguish between personal preference and actual problems.

Don’t Spoil Others’ Experiences: Not everyone attends all days. Avoid spoiling exclusive announcements, panel content, or special moments for those who haven’t experienced them yet.

Special Situations: Navigating Complicated Scenarios

Some convention situations require specific etiquette knowledge:

Meeting Industry Guests and Celebrities

Respect Signing Limits: Autograph sessions often limit how many items can be signed per person. Don’t try to exceed limits or argue for exceptions.

Be Brief: Guests meet hundreds of people. Have a short, genuine comment prepared rather than launching into extensive personal stories.

Don’t Propose Marriage or Confess Love: Celebrities and guests receive this constantly. It makes them uncomfortable. Express appreciation for their work instead.

Respect Photography Rules: Some guests allow selfies; others charge for photo ops. Don’t sneak photos or argue about policies.

Understand They’re Working: Guests are being paid to attend, but they’re still people who need breaks, meals, and privacy. Don’t approach them aggressively in hallways or bathrooms.

Age-Restricted Content and Areas

Don’t Sneak Into 18+ Events: Age restrictions exist for legal reasons. Attempting to sneak in creates liability for conventions.

Don’t Show Explicit Content to Minors: If you purchase or view 18+ content, keep it away from children and teens in public convention spaces.

Respect Parents’ Boundaries: Conventions are family-friendly environments overall. If children are present, adjust your conversation topics, screen content, and behavior accordingly.

Substance Use

Follow Venue Laws: Some conventions ban alcohol entirely; others allow it in specific areas. Understand and follow these rules.

Don’t Pressure Others: Not everyone drinks or uses substances. Respect others’ choices without interrogation or pressure.

Don’t Attend Drunk or High: Being intoxicated impairs judgment, leading to etiquette violations, safety issues, and potential ejection.

Drugs Are Illegal: Despite changing laws in some places, most conventions and venues prohibit recreational drug use. Violating this can result in ejection and criminal charges.

Convention Romance and Hookups

Consent Is Paramount: Enthusiastic, explicit consent is required for any romantic or sexual interaction. Inability to consent (due to intoxication, age, or other factors) means no consent exists.

Keep It Private: Public displays of affection beyond brief hugs and hand-holding should be kept private. Convention spaces aren’t appropriate for heavy making out or sexual activity.

No Means No: If someone declines romantic advances, accept it immediately and completely. Don’t interpret friendliness as romantic interest or persist after rejection.

Be Aware of Power Dynamics: Relationships between guests and fans, vendors and customers, or people with significant age gaps involve power dynamics requiring extra care and consideration.

Post-Convention Etiquette: Carrying Good Behavior Beyond the Event

Good etiquette extends beyond the convention itself:

Online Follow-Up

Thank Creators and Vendors: If you had positive interactions with artists, vendors, or guests, social media shout-outs provide valuable exposure and appreciation.

Leave Honest Reviews: Thoughtful reviews of the convention help organizers improve and help potential attendees decide if events suit them.

Share Photos Responsibly: Continue respecting consent and privacy when posting photos weeks or months after the event.

Dealing With “Con Crud”

Quarantine If Sick: The respiratory illness many people develop after conventions spreads easily. If you’re sick, minimize contact with others, especially vulnerable populations.

Warn People You Were in Contact With: If you develop illness after the con, let friends you spent time with know so they can monitor their health.

Practice Good Hygiene: Washing hands, using hand sanitizer, and avoiding touching your face during conventions reduces disease transmission.

Reflecting on Your Behavior

Consider What You’d Change: Honest reflection on your convention behavior helps you improve future attendance. Were you as considerate as you could have been? Did you respect boundaries? Did you maintain hygiene standards?

Apologize If Necessary: If you realize you behaved poorly toward someone, reaching out with a genuine apology provides closure and demonstrates growth.

Plan Improvements: Identify specific areas for improvement and plan how to address them at future conventions.

Conclusion: Etiquette as Community Care

Convention etiquette ultimately represents community care—the understanding that your behavior affects hundreds or thousands of other attendees’ experiences. Good etiquette isn’t about perfectionism or walking on eggshells; it’s about mindful consideration of how your actions impact the shared spaces and experiences that make conventions special.

The rules might seem overwhelming at first, but they boil down to fundamental principles:

Respect others’ boundaries and bodies. Ask before touching people or their belongings, respect “no,” and give people space.

Maintain basic hygiene. Shower daily, wear clean clothes, use deodorant. Your hygiene affects everyone around you.

Be aware of your impact on shared spaces. Don’t block traffic, monopolize resources, or behave in ways that diminish others’ experiences.

Treat creators and vendors with respect. Understand that artists and vendors are working people deserving of consideration and fair treatment.

Follow rules and cooperate with staff. Conventions can only function when attendees work with rather than against organizers and staff.

Take care of yourself. Maintaining your physical and mental health allows you to be more considerate of others and enjoy the convention fully.

Be kind and welcoming. Conventions gather diverse people around shared passions. Kindness makes these spaces accessible and enjoyable for everyone.

Perfect etiquette adherence isn’t required—everyone makes mistakes or has moments where fatigue affects judgment. What matters is genuine effort to be considerate, willingness to accept feedback gracefully, and commitment to improving when you’ve made mistakes.

Conventions represent temporary communities where thousands of strangers gather around shared love for anime, manga, gaming, and related culture. These events only succeed when attendees collectively create welcoming, safe, and enjoyable environments. Your etiquette isn’t just about you—it’s your contribution to that collective experience, making conventions better for everyone including yourself.

For more resources about anime convention etiquette, safety, and community standards, Anime News Network’s convention coverage provides comprehensive guides and tips for con-goers at all experience levels.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it really that important to shower every day at a convention?

Yes, absolutely. Convention environments—crowded spaces, physical activity, often-warm temperatures, and close proximity to others—create conditions where daily showering is non-negotiable. “Con funk” is a real, pervasive problem that affects everyone’s experience. The excuse “I’m too tired” doesn’t make you smell better to the people standing next to you in line for three hours.

What should I do if someone is harassing me at a convention?

Report it immediately to convention security. Conventions have specific harassment policies and trained staff to handle these situations. Don’t minimize your experience or worry about “causing drama”—if something made you uncomfortable or unsafe, it should be reported. Security can address the situation, create safety plans, or remove harassers if necessary.

Can I really just say “no” when someone asks for a cosplay photo?

Absolutely yes. You’re never obligated to stop for photos, engage in conversations, or accommodate anyone’s requests. “No, thank you” is a complete sentence requiring no justification. Cosplayers are attendees enjoying the convention, not performers obligated to stop for everyone who asks.

How do I politely tell someone they smell bad?

This is extremely difficult to do without causing embarrassment. If you’re close friends with the person, you might privately and kindly say something like “Hey, it’s really warm in here—want to take a break and freshen up?” If you don’t know them well, your best option is to quietly move away and, if the situation is severe (like in an enclosed panel room), discreetly inform convention staff who are trained to handle these situations delicately.

What if I accidentally violate someone’s boundaries?

Apologize immediately and sincerely. “I’m so sorry, I didn’t mean to make you uncomfortable” followed by immediately changing your behavior shows good faith. Don’t make excuses, don’t argue about whether they should be uncomfortable, and don’t make it about your intentions rather than their experience. Learn from the mistake and do better going forward.

Are there conventions that are better for first-timers?

Smaller local conventions often provide gentler introduction to con culture than massive events like Anime Expo or Comic-Con. Smaller conventions have more manageable crowds, shorter lines, and often more intimate atmospheres where asking questions and learning norms feels less intimidating. However, large conventions offer more content and guests—it’s a trade-off based on what you prioritize.

How much should I budget for a convention?

Beyond the admission badge, budget for food (convention center food is expensive), transportation, merchandise/art purchases if interested, hotel if staying overnight, and emergency funds. A comfortable budget for a weekend convention including admission might be $300-600 depending on spending habits and whether you’re purchasing significant merchandise. Always bring more than you expect to spend.

What do I do if I witness harassment but the victim doesn’t want to report it?

Respect their decision about reporting, but you can still report what you witnessed to security separately if you believe the harasser poses ongoing danger to others. However, prioritize supporting the victim’s agency in how their experience is handled—don’t report against their explicit wishes unless the situation involves serious safety threats to the broader community.

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