EVENING FACT The Japan Otaku Festival settles down in Alès for a 100% pop culture weekend

The Méjannes-les-Alès Exhibition Center was transformed this weekend into a true temple of Japanese pop culture. For the first time, the city is hosting the Japan Otaku Festival, an event open to all, which celebrates the world of manga, anime, gaming and cosplay. A total immersion in the otaku universe, where enthusiasts and novices rub shoulders in a friendly and festive atmosphere.

A festival for everyone, by everyone

Organized by an experienced team – the festival has existed for almost three years and spread to France, Belgium and Luxembourg – the Japan Otaku Festival aims above all to be a place of sharing and freedom. HAS” It’s a moment for families, friends, fans of all generations.”explains Abdel, communications manager. HAS” Here, we accept all universes, all cosplays, all orientations. The idea is to create an annual meeting for Alesians and fans of pop culture in the region. HAS”

On the program: concerts, conferences, demonstrations, signings, e-sport tournaments, but also free workshops (manga drawing, coloring, Japanese cuisine) and original activities such as Ninja Fight or introductions to Japanese archery (kyÅ«dÅ), offered by local artisans such as the Shinobi stand. HAS” We forge our own weapons, but they are non-edged products, for safe and fun practice. “, specifies John, a blacksmith from Avignon, who travels across France every weekend to share his passion.

Distinguished guests

On the star side, visitors can meet Debbie Davis (the French voice of the Lion King), Enrique Fort (the legendary interpreter of the Grendizer theme song), Benoît Du Pac, dubbing actor known for his roles in GTO, Sonic or Luigi, or the group Pixel Syndrome, whose rock melodies are inspired by the geek universe. HAS” It’s an opportunity for parents to show their children that they too were fans of Goldorak or Nicky Larson “, smiles Abdel.

The festival also highlights local creators: around fifty stands of artisans, associations and merchants offering goodies, clothing inspired by gaming, or even unique works. Among them, Skyz44, independent mangaka, who runs drawing workshops to share his passion. We give personalized advice, whether for the style, the scenario or the originality of a project “, he explains. Her partner Sui creates custom cosplay portraits – a mix of creativity and fun, “ like a Flunch, but in drawing ».

An expected success

With communication launched only 2-3 months ago, the attendance is already there. HAS” Alès is a small town, but we also benefit from the surrounding towns “, emphasizes Abdel. HAS” The pre-sales and the enthusiasm on social networks reassured us. And now the proof is there: the park is full of families, cosplayers, gamers… »

The festival continues on Sunday with the same program. Enough to allow visitors to fully benefit from this first edition, which hopes to become a lasting part of the Alesian cultural landscape.