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2021 News

Announcements and updates specifically from the 2021 convention year.

December 2021

Welcoming Directors for 2022

We would like to welcome and congratulate the Directors elected by the membership for the 2022 convention year:

  • Chair/President: Charmaine Martinez
  • Director of Infrastructure: Bunny B
  • Director of Membership: Charly Youravish
  • Director of Operations: Yaz W
  • Director of Programming: Steven Garcia
  • Director of Publicity: Panda
  • Director of Relations: Amber Feldman

Thank you to all candidates, and to our staff for your participation in elections!

Altonimbus Entertainment Is Now a 501(c)(3) Charity

We are pleased to announce a very important milestone in our organization’s history. Altonimbus Entertainment, the organization behind Kumoricon, is now recognized by the IRS as a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt charity. Our 501(c)(3) recognition is backdated to our application date of May 7, 2021.

Although Altonimbus has been a nonprofit organization under the state of Oregon since 2004, this new federal recognition opens wider doors for us in community outreach, industry donations, and financial support. Thank you to the staff who helped make this happen, and thank you to all of our staff for approving the amendments to our bylaws and articles of incorporation last year in preparation for this status.

November 2021

Black Friday Sale for Kumoricon 2022 Pre-Registration

We’re excited to open online pre-registration for Kumoricon 2022!

Starting now and running through November 29, get our lowest online price during our Black Friday sale! Registrations for ages 13 and up get $10 off the regular price.

We are also pleased to expand our VIP membership program. For the first time, we now offer three levels of VIP membership to pick from. Learn about our new options and see which one works for you.

We’ll see you at the con!

End of Convention Announcements and 2022 Dates (Corrected)

We are very pleased to announce that Kumoricon 2022 will take place on November 11–13, 2022, at the Oregon Convention Center!

As voted by our staff, the 2022 mascot will be:

Artwork of the 2022 mascot winner featuring a character with purple hair and a cosmic umbrella in three different poses.

Winner Artist: Ashley Kincannon

Lost and found: All lost items have been turned over to the Oregon Convention Center. For lost and found, please contact the Oregon Convention Center directly at ask@oregoncc.org or 503-235-7575.

Re-posted to correct error where last year’s winner was credited. The post has now been corrected.

Important COVID-19 Update

Hey Kumo Fam,

We have some important information we feel it’s our responsibility to share. One of our staff has tested positive for COVID-19. The information was found out due to an abundance of caution in our procedures. This staff member was not in a primarily attendee-facing position and only had contact with a small number of staff. All persons who have come in close contact with this staffer have been informed and have been tested. Currently, we have received no further positive results.

This staffer has since taken a second, and third, rapid test, which have both come back negative. Regardless, we are still treating this very seriously, as this does not necessarily mean they do not have COVID-19, but may have a low viral load. This staff member was vaccinated (which can sometimes weaken the virus in breakout cases), was asymptomatic, and was diligent about wearing their mask at all times in public space.

We have informed our guests out of our sense of responsibility and our concern for their safety, and will honor whatever decisions they make in order to feel safe. You may see changes in scheduling and content due to this information, and we will do our best to update our schedules as soon as we have information. Please keep an eye on our website and Guidebook.

As a convention, our priority has always been our attendees’ and staff members’ safety. While we are aware of the impact this will have on our convention, we knew we had the obligation to inform you all.

For any questions about next steps, please understand that we’ve already resolved this situation with all persons involved, in addition to being understaffed while hosting a convention, and we may have to respond after the show is over.

Annual Meeting of the Membership and 2022 Elections

We will be holding the Annual Meeting of the Membership on Saturday, December 4, 2021, at 11:00am.

The meeting will be held entirely online and is open to the public. Voting is open to Altonimbus Members (Kumoricon staff).

The meeting will be streamed on two platforms—Kumoricon’s Twitch channel, and Kumoricon’s public Discord server. Both are open to the public. Viewing on Discord requires a Discord account and joining our server, and Twitch does not require an account.

Elections will be held for the following positions:

  • Chair/President
  • Director of Infrastructure
  • Director of Membership
  • Director of Operations
  • Director of Programming
  • Director of Publicity
  • Director of Relations

As with previous elections, we will be holding online nominations and Q&A prior to the meeting. Full instructions for online nominations and Q&A, and other election procedures such as proxy voting, will be listed on our Meetings page when online nominations open in the days after the convention.

The board of directors has authorized, under ORS 65.205, member participation by remote communication for this meeting. Full instructions for officially participating using Twitch or Discord are available at our Meetings page.

We hope to see you there, and would like to thank staff for participating!

"Food Wars" Food Drive

Join Kumoricon in supporting the Hand Up Project for the “Feed Your Waifu / Husbando” food wars! This year, barrels will be marked with three of your favorite anime characters. The character whose barrel is filled with the most donations will result in their English voice actor receiving an invitation to attend Kumoricon 2022 as a special Guest of Honor!

The Hand Up Project provides emergency food services in the BIPOC and LGBTQIA+ community, which both experience higher rates of food insecurity. For more information on this awesome cause, visit their website!

Logo for the Hand Up Project featuring two hands reaching towards each other over a pride flag background.

The three contestants are:

  • Satoru Gojo (Jujutsu Kaisen)
  • Rem (Re:Zero)
  • Rimuru Tempest (That Time I Got Reincarnated as a Slime)

Make sure to stop by the charity booth and feed your favorite. It goes to a good cause!

October 2021

Guidebook App Now Available

The Kumoricon 2021 guide is now available in the Guidebook app!

This free app for Android and iOS contains a live-updating Kumoricon schedule, maps, photos, convention information, announcements, and more. Mark events to create a personalized schedule with reminders. The entire guide is downloaded in advance, so it works offline if you can’t get reception.

After you install the app, search the guides for “Kumoricon 2021”, or visit Guidebook to get a download link on your phone.

Announcing Alisa Freedman as Guest of Honor

We’re super excited to welcome Alisa Freedman to Kumoricon 2021! Alisa is is a professor of Japanese Literature, Cultural Studies, and Gender at the University of Oregon and has published several books relating to Japanese culture.

Portrait of Alisa Freedman smiling in an outdoor setting.

Guest Autographs at Kumoricon 2021

We’re making a few changes to how we handle autographs this year.

Some of our guests will have paid autographs, and some guests will have free autographs. Paid autographs are available online starting right now, and free autographs will be available with first-come, first-served reservations once you pick up your badge at con.

Please visit our autographs page for full information.

Gunpla Lounge at Kumoricon

The Gunpla Lounge is back for 2021! It will be a mix of some easy kits for those just starting out as well as a contest to show off the very best of your modeling skill. Stop by to pick up an entry form and to check out the models!

Announcing Robbie Daymond as Guest of Honor

We’re super excited that Robbie Daymond will be joining us at Kumoricon 2021! Robbie has done a ton of amazing work in both eastern and western animation. Chances are you’ve probably heard one of his roles before.

Portrait of Robbie Daymond smiling, wearing a black and white patterned shirt and a black hat.

Announcing Morgan Berry as Guest of Honor

We’re so glad Morgan Berry will also be joining us for Kumoricon 2021! She’s put on many great performances in shows like My Hero Academia, The Rising of the Shield Hero, and Miraculous Ladybug.

Portrait of Morgan Berry in a black leather jacket.

ACME VIP Passes

Portrait of the four members of the band ACME in dark clothing against a black background.

This is your chance to experience ACME on their Unbreakable Tour 2021 at Kumoricon in style with a VIP pass!

ACME VIP pass includes:

  • VIP priority access to ACME events at Kumoricon
  • VIP meet-and-greet session with ACME, including 1 group photo with the band before the concert
  • Special VIP pass
  • Special gift

ACME VIP pass sales will run until November 5, 12:00 noon (deadline extended). A Kumoricon convention badge is required and registered separately.

Announcing Abby Trott as Guest of Honor

We’re pleased to announce Abby Trott as a guest of honor at Kumoricon 2021! You may recognize her voice from Demon Slayer, Fire Emblem: Three Houses, Super Smash Bros. Ultimate, or one of her many other great roles!

Portrait of Abby Trott smiling.

October 24 General Meeting

Our next general meeting will take place on Sunday, October 24, 2021, at 12:00 noon, and we will be holding it online. The meeting will be streamed in real time on Kumoricon’s Twitch channel. Staff and members of the public are welcome. Meeting attendees do not need a Twitch account in order to watch the meeting.

The board of directors has authorized member participation by remote communication for this meeting, under ORS 65.205. If you are a voting member (staff) of Kumoricon, you may officially participate in this meeting, including counting toward quorum and the ability to vote, using the procedures listed on our Meetings page.

Meetings are open to the public and are a great way to learn about staffing and become involved with the convention.

The full general meeting schedule for the year is available at our Meetings page. This year, some meetings will start at 12:00 noon and some at 1:00pm, so please make sure to check the start time of each meeting. This page will always show the most up-to-date scheduling information for meetings of the membership.

We hope to see you there!

Mascot Contest Entry Gallery

Voting for Kumoricon’s 2022 mascot has concluded, so now is your chance to check out all the entries! We got a ton of awesome art this year; we’re so grateful. Which one do you think will win? Join us at Closing Ceremonies to see! View the gallery online.

September 2021

October 9 General Meeting

Our next general meeting will take place on Saturday, October 9, 2021, at 1:00pm, and we will be holding it online. The meeting will be streamed in real time on Kumoricon’s Twitch channel. Staff and members of the public are welcome. Meeting attendees do not need a Twitch account in order to watch the meeting.

The board of directors has authorized member participation by remote communication for this meeting, under ORS 65.205. If you are a voting member (staff) of Kumoricon, you may officially participate in this meeting, including counting toward quorum and the ability to vote, using the procedures listed on our Meetings page.

Meetings are open to the public and are a great way to learn about staffing and become involved with the convention.

The full general meeting schedule for the year is available at our Meetings page. This year, some meetings will start at 12:00 noon and some at 1:00pm, so please make sure to check the start time of each meeting. This page will always show the most up-to-date scheduling information for meetings of the membership.

We hope to see you there!

Announcing Kira Buckland as Guest of Honor

We’re super excited to welcome Kira Buckland to Kumoricon 2021! Kira plays some fan favorite characters like Mitsuri (Demon Slayer), Beatrice (Re:Zero), Reimi (JoJo), and of course, 2B (Nier). We hope to see you in November!

Kumoricon COVID-19 Safety Update

Last updated October 29, 2021

You are currently viewing the COVID-19 safety page for Kumoricon 2021, an older convention year. Visit our Kumoricon 2022 COVID-19 safety page for the most up-to-date information.

As a convention that focuses heavily on our attendees, we have been working hard to make Kumoricon 2021 the safest event for everyone. After much deliberation, we are ready to announce our COVID-19 safety precautions so you can prepare for our event. We are adding the following requirements to our Code of Conduct:

  • All attendees age 12 and over must provide either proof of COVID-19 vaccination, or proof of a negative test. All attendees ages 6 to 11 must provide proof of a negative test. Verification will be conducted on site.
    • If you are using a PCR test, then it must be taken on or after Tuesday, November 2. A negative result will be considered valid for the entire convention.
    • If you are using a rapid (antigen) test, then a negative result is considered valid for 3 full days following the test date. (For example, a negative test taken on Thursday will permit being at the event on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday.) A test must be re-taken during the convention if a rapid (antigen) test’s 3-day validity window expires before the end of the event.
  • All attendees age 2 and over must wear facial coverings in convention space, except in designated eating areas while eating or drinking.
  • Facial coverings must completely cover the nose and mouth, and must attach to the head with a strap. Facial coverings that are not allowed include (but are not limited to): any masks with an exhalation valve, bandanas, mesh materials, masks with excessive holes or damage, face shields without a mask, and neck gaiters.
  • Facial coverings must be visible. Attendees may not wear a costume that prevents anyone from seeing that the facial covering requirement is being followed (such as a helmet or head covering).
  • The facial covering requirement applies in all locations in the Oregon Convention Center, and in all event rooms and event hallways for any programming in the Hyatt. The only exceptions are in designated eating areas while eating or drinking, and while presenting or performing for any officially-run event where the written rules for that event allow for an exception.

Our safety precautions are an ongoing conversation involving our venue, local guidance, and the conditions of the pandemic. Our requirements are subject to change up until the convention. Our COVID-19 Safety page and our Code of Conduct will always reflect the latest information.

COVID-19 testing locations

A vaccine is the best step you can take to keep yourself and everyone else safe at the convention, and is the most reliable way to get through our doors.

A PCR test is the next best thing if you are unable to be vaccinated by con. There are many places where you can get this for free!

A rapid (antigen) test is an acceptable fallback if your PCR test does not arrive in time. Free PCR (and rapid antigen) testing is available at multiple locations.

  • The following locations accept walk-ups or appointments at curative.com:
    • On-site: OCC Plaza (834 NE Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Portland, OR 97232); hours Monday–Saturday, 8am–3pm.
    • Revolution Hall (1300 SE Stark St, Portland, OR 97214); hours Wednesday–Sunday, 4pm–10pm.
    • True West Aladdin Theater (3017 SE Milwaukie Ave, Portland, OR 97202); hours Tuesday–Sunday, 4pm–10pm.
    • Mississippi Studios (939 N Mississippi Ave, Portland, OR 97227); hours Wednesday–Sunday, 4pm–10pm.
  • 729 NE Oregon St, Portland, OR, 97232; can be booked here; hours are every day, 9am–5pm.
  • Many Walgreens locations offer free COVID-19 tests and can be reserved here.
  • Many Rite Aid locations offer free COVID-19 tests and can be reserved here.
  • OHSU is doing testing at the Portland Expo Center, and can be reserved here.
  • Multnomah County has testing sites in Gresham and Portland on Glisan St, and can be reserved here.

This is not a comprehensive list, and more options can be found using the state COVID-19 test locator sites below:

If you take a PCR test, it must be administered on or after Tuesday, November 2, to allow entry for the entire event.

A rapid test is more restricted, and is only valid for three days following your test date. If you take a rapid test, it must be administered Thursday or later to cover all days of con.

FAQ

AMA replay

On September 28, 2021, we held an AMA (Ask Me Anything) with our convention Chair. Watch the replay of the event here. Most of the questions and answers from the AMA are also listed below.

Watch the Kumoricon 2021 COVID-19 Safety AMA replay

Costumes and mask types
Q: I have a headpiece, helmet, or other full head covering as part of my costume. Can I wear this? If not, can I put it on temporarily for photos?

A: You may only wear it if it does not prevent us from seeing that you are following the mask policy. You may wear your headpiece over your properly worn mask for photos, but must remove it once the photos have been taken.

Q: Will fursuits or costumes with headpieces with open mouths be allowed if a staff member could see inside the mouth to check for a mask if they get close enough?

A: If we can clearly see that your mask is on properly, it is allowed.

Q: Please clarify “and must attach to the head with a strap”. Are you requiring something more than standard ear loops?

A: Not all masks attach to the ears, so we want to be inclusive of masks that tie around the head or attach in other ways.

Q: I have a spandex suit that completely covers my head. Do I wear the mask under or over that?

A: Please wear the mask over the spandex and make sure it still covers your nose and mouth. We need to be able to see that you’re wearing the mask and that it’s secure.

Q: Can a neck gaiter be worn over a mask if it is part of my cosplay?

A: No. The required mask cannot be hidden by the neck gaiter. We need to be able to see the mask.

Q: Are ski masks allowed if they don’t “attach” to the head?

A: No, these are considered similar to neck gaiters, and are not allowed for the same reasons.

Q: Can I wear a cloth mask over a medical mask?

A: Yes, this is allowed. The cloth mask is allowed per CDC’s guidelines, so if you want to add more protection on top of that, you’re awesome!

Q: Is there any kind of double masking that would not be allowed?

A: As long as all of the visible masks being used fit our guidelines, it should be okay. However, we reserve the right to make a judgment call in unusual cases, as we cannot foresee every eventuality.

Q: Are “vented” masks acceptable if the vent is completely covered by filter material?

A: Sadly, no. Masks with vents are not allowed because we cannot verify whether someone has the proper filters inside. The CDC does not recommend these, so we are not allowing them.

Q: Are face shields allowed?

A: No; the CDC does not recommend face shields, so we’re not allowing them.

Q: Are clear lip-reading masks where the mouth is visible allowed if they securely fasten to the ears or head?

A: Masks with windows for lip reading are allowed. However, face shields that have air openings or are located in front of the face are not allowed. A good rule of thumb is that air entering and exiting your mask should pass through some type of filter.

Masks that are designed entirely out of clear plastic or another airtight material are not permitted, as all air entering and exiting the mask moves past the sides of the mask unfiltered. This also includes face shields which are open to the air on one or more sides.

Q: Oregon requires masks on children age 5 and older, but the CDC recommends them on children age 2 and older. Which will you be enforcing?

A: We are going with the CDC’s guidelines, so we will be requiring masks on children age 2 and over.

Mask exemptions
Q: Can I take my mask off for photos?

A: There is no exception for photography poses.

Q: As a panelist or event participant, can I take off my mask while presenting?

A: Currently the only exception is the Cosplay Lip Sync Showdown. If that changes for an event, that will be communicated in the rules for panelists or specific events.

Q: Will there be designated quiet areas for people with sensory needs to take mask breaks as an alternative to going outside?

A: Eating areas are the only areas where masks will be able to be removed briefly for eating or drinking. Our AFK room, Gunpla Lounge, and Manga Library are quieter areas, but masks will be required.

Q: Will Kumoricon be providing masks if we forget or don’t bring them?

A: No, that’s not feasible.

Q: What accessibility options will be available for those who may rely on lip reading?

A: We don’t have a list of these handy, but if you or someone you know has an accommodation request or for any questions, please contact accessibility@kumoricon.org.

Vaccination requirements
Q: What is considered fully vaccinated?

A: To meet the vaccination requirement, you must present proof of having received the final dose of your vaccine (second dose for two-dose vaccines, or single dose for one-dose vaccines) at least two weeks prior to your check-in date.

Q: Will boosters be included as part of the vaccination requirement?

A: Booster availability is rapidly changing and may not always be easily available by the time our event rolls around, so we can’t feasibly require it.

Q: I can’t get vaccinated due to religious reasons. Can I show my exemption to get in?

A: If you cannot get the vaccine, you will need to meet the negative test requirements.

Q: Is a vaccination proof from outside the United States acceptable?

A: We will accept as much as we are able. Please check back to this page for the latest confirmation. Also, please contact us in advance if you would like to make sure.

Test requirements
Q: What kinds of tests will be accepted?

A: PCR and rapid tests will be accepted. At-home tests will not be accepted.

Q: What if the test is taken at the store?

A: To be an allowable rapid test, the store must produce their own documentation of the negative test result.

Q: Your rules say for a PCR test, it must be taken on or after November 2. Does this refer to the date the test is taken, or when the results need to come in?

A: The test must be taken on or after November 2, not just the result.

Q: Will testing be available on site?

Yes! There will be a testing site at the plaza!

“The Oregon Convention Center is pleased to partner with Curative, an essential health services provider, to offer both PCR and rapid antigen COVID-19 testing available via a mobile testing van conveniently located at the Oregon Convention Center Plaza [834 NE Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Portland, OR], at no cost to you. PCR test results are delivered electronically within 24–48 upon receipt of the sample at the lab; rapid antigen test results are delivered electronically within 15–30 minutes.

To schedule an appointment, visit curative.com. Walk-ups are also welcomed. Testing is available Monday to Saturday from 8am–3pm. For more information about Curative and their offerings, visit curative.com.”

Vaccination or negative test verification
Q: Is a photo of a vaccination card acceptable?

A: Yes, photos of vaccination cards are okay. We can also accept a standard medical chart app (such as MyChart) if it displays your vaccination proof.

Q: Are California resident QR codes allowed as vaccination proof?

A: We are looking into this but don’t know for certain yet.

Q: Can staff upload photos of their vaccination cards in advance?

A: Staff will be checked using the same process as attendees, as we don’t even know your badge type when first entering the building. We are not set up to do advance verification.

Q: What kind of identification should I bring for proof of vaccination or negative test?

A: Identification requirements for our health check are the same as our requirements for registration, a valid, government-issued photo ID, so you don’t have to bring anything extra. You can use the same documents for both. Please review our registration page for full details.

Q: Will I need to show my proof of vaccination or negative test every time I enter?

A: We will be giving wristbands once you have entered the OCC, even before you get your badge. You may need to get a new wristband the next day; we are still finalizing our full processes.

Venue space
Q: If the Oregon Convention Center changes their rules, will that automatically change yours?

A: Kumoricon has set its own vaccination and facial covering requirements that match the Oregon Convention Center’s requirements and in some ways are stricter. We are working closely with the Oregon Convention Center, and will ensure that we meet or exceed all of their COVID-19 requirements, including making sure that Kumoricon’s requirements take into account any changes in venue requirements.

Q: Will there be time or capacity limitations in event rooms? Since the convention’s livelihood is based on high attendee numbers, how are you addressing the direct conflict that brings with health and safety guidelines?

A: There’s definitely a balance that we’re having to find, and we want you all to know that we’re taking it very seriously. We can’t always achieve perfect social distancing, but we’re looking at how much we can space things out. This is part of why we’re enforcing vaccination and test requirements, as well as mask requirements. There’s no perfect answer here, but we’re doing what we can.

Q: Will you be clearing rooms between events for any kind of disinfecting?

A: We do have longer gaps in between panels this year for clearing out and less overlap, and we will be trying to add disinfecting, but it is not something we can guarantee for any or all panels.

General topics
Q: Are there any differences between minors and adults for COVID-19 requirements?

A: The only differences are the minimum ages at which we enforce the vaccination requirement, the negative test requirement, and the mask requirement. All attendees age 12 and over must provide either proof of COVID-19 vaccination, or proof of a negative test. All attendees ages 6 to 11 must provide proof of a negative test. All attendees age 2 and over must wear facial coverings based on the listed requirements.

Q: If someone were to go against your COVID-19 requirements, what would happen?

A: We would follow the same procedures we follow when people break any other policy for our event. We will enforce those rules, and failing to follow them repeatedly could lead to being removed from the event.

Q: Am I able to get a refund for my membership if I am not able to get a test or vaccination in time?

A: We hope you are able to because we’d love to see you all, but if you can’t, please email registration@kumoricon.org.

If it helps, there will be a testing location on-site! Please see the test section above for full details.

Q: I’m an exhibitor, Artist Alley, or Small Press member. Is there a way to postpone or cancel my table?

A: Please contact exhibits@kumoricon.org, artists@kumoricon.org, or small.press@kumoricon.org for a case-by-case review of your situation.

August 2021

September 19 General Meeting

Our next general meeting will take place on Sunday, September 19, 2021, at 12:00 noon, and we will be holding it online. The meeting will be streamed in real time on Kumoricon’s Twitch channel. Staff and members of the public are welcome. Meeting attendees do not need a Twitch account in order to watch the meeting.

The board of directors has authorized member participation by remote communication for this meeting, under ORS 65.205. If you are a voting member (staff) of Kumoricon, you may officially participate in this meeting, including counting toward quorum and the ability to vote, using the procedures listed on our Meetings page.

Meetings are open to the public and are a great way to learn about staffing and become involved with the convention.

The full general meeting schedule for the year is available at our Meetings page. This year, some meetings will start at 12:00 noon and some at 1:00pm, so please make sure to check the start time of each meeting. This page will always show the most up-to-date scheduling information for meetings of the membership.

We hope to see you there!

August 22 General Meeting

Our next general meeting will take place on Sunday, August 22, 2021, at 12:00 noon, and we will be holding it online. The meeting will be streamed in real time on Kumoricon’s Twitch channel. Staff and members of the public are welcome. Meeting attendees do not need a Twitch account in order to watch the meeting.

The board of directors has authorized member participation by remote communication for this meeting, under ORS 65.205. If you are a voting member (staff) of Kumoricon, you may officially participate in this meeting, including counting toward quorum and the ability to vote, using the procedures listed on our Meetings page.

Meetings are open to the public and are a great way to learn about staffing and become involved with the convention.

The full general meeting schedule for the year is available at our Meetings page. This year, some meetings will start at 12:00 noon and some at 1:00pm, so please make sure to check the start time of each meeting. This page will always show the most up-to-date scheduling information for meetings of the membership.

We hope to see you there!

July 2021

August 7 General Meeting

Our next general meeting will take place on Saturday, August 7, 2021, at 1:00pm, and we will be holding it online. The meeting will be streamed in real time on Kumoricon’s Twitch channel. Staff and members of the public are welcome. Meeting attendees do not need a Twitch account in order to watch the meeting.

The board of directors has authorized member participation by remote communication for this meeting, under ORS 65.205. If you are a voting member (staff) of Kumoricon, you may officially participate in this meeting, including counting toward quorum and the ability to vote, using the procedures listed on our Meetings page.

Meetings are open to the public and are a great way to learn about staffing and become involved with the convention.

The full general meeting schedule for the year is available at our Meetings page. This year, some meetings will start at 12:00 noon and some at 1:00pm, so please make sure to check the start time of each meeting. This page will always show the most up-to-date scheduling information for meetings of the membership.

We hope to see you there!

Mascot Contest Is Open for Entries

Our mascot contest is back! We want to see your take on a Kumoricon mascot for 2022. Winners will get a Wacom tablet and the choice of VIP Kumoricon 2022 membership or a no-cost table at our Artist Alley. Good luck, and we’re excited to see what you come up with! Check out the full rules and entry form.

Announcing ACME at Kumoricon and DigiKumo Lite

We are excited to announce ACME as a musical guest of honor both at Kumoricon 2021 in November, and at our online summer event DigiKumo Lite in July.

Kumoricon will be featured as a stop on ACME’s UNBREAKABLE TOUR!

Promotional poster for ACME UNBREAKABLE TOUR 2021, featuring the band members and tour dates.

July 11 General Meeting

Our next general meeting will take place on Sunday, July 11, 2021, at 12:00 noon, and we will be holding it online. The meeting will be streamed in real time on Kumoricon’s Twitch channel. Staff and members of the public are welcome. Meeting attendees do not need a Twitch account in order to watch the meeting.

The board of directors has authorized member participation by remote communication for this meeting, under ORS 65.205. If you are a voting member (staff) of Kumoricon, you may officially participate in this meeting, including counting toward quorum and the ability to vote, using the procedures listed on our Meetings page.

Meetings are open to the public and are a great way to learn about staffing and become involved with the convention.

The full general meeting schedule for the year is available at our Meetings page. This year, some meetings will start at 12:00 noon and some at 1:00pm, so please make sure to check the start time of each meeting. This page will always show the most up-to-date scheduling information for meetings of the membership.

We hope to see you there!

June 2021

June 26 General Meeting

Our next general meeting will take place on Saturday, June 26, 2021, at 1:00pm, and we will be holding it online. The meeting will be streamed in real time on Kumoricon’s Twitch channel. Staff and members of the public are welcome. Meeting attendees do not need a Twitch account in order to watch the meeting.

The board of directors has authorized member participation by remote communication for this meeting, under ORS 65.205. If you are a voting member (staff) of Kumoricon, you may officially participate in this meeting, including counting toward quorum and the ability to vote, using the procedures listed on our Meetings page.

Meetings are open to the public and are a great way to learn about staffing and become involved with the convention.

The full general meeting schedule for the year is available at our Meetings page. This year, some meetings will start at 12:00 noon and some at 1:00pm, so please make sure to check the start time of each meeting. This page will always show the most up-to-date scheduling information for meetings of the membership.

We hope to see you there!

May 2021

DigiKumo Reruns for June

Did you miss your favorite event at DigiKumo? We’ll be replaying some of its most popular panels and events on our Twitch channel. Videos will be available for viewing on Twitch for two weeks after each replay, and will later be posted to YouTube.

Here is our schedule for June. Listed times are Pacific Time.

  • June 3, 7:00pm: From Script to Screen: How to Produce Your Own YouTube Video Projects (with Ginny Di)
  • June 17, 7:00pm: See You, Space Cowboy: a LIVE Cowboy Bebop Reunion (Steve Blum, Wendee Lee, Melissa Fahn, Beau Billingslea, Mary Elizabeth McGlynn)

AMV Contest Is Open for Entries

Calling all editors! We are ready for submissions for the Kumoricon 2021 AMV Contest!

All of our rules have stayed the same, but this year for the first time ever, you can contribute to the Melting Pot—a category for entries that don’t fit into our definition of anime/manga-styled sources. These entries may use any source of their choice including, but not limited to: live action media, cartoons, video games, etc.

We are so excited to continue hosting some of the best AMV programming in the US—and it’s all because of your support that we can make this possible. Thank you!

Please visit our online rules/entry page.

May 16 General Meeting

Our next general meeting will take place on Sunday, May 16, 2021, at 12:00 noon, and we will be holding it online. The meeting will be streamed in real time on Kumoricon’s Twitch channel. Staff and members of the public are welcome. Meeting attendees do not need a Twitch account in order to watch the meeting.

The board of directors has authorized member participation by remote communication for this meeting, under ORS 65.205. If you are a voting member (staff) of Kumoricon, you may officially participate in this meeting, including counting toward quorum and the ability to vote, using the procedures listed on our Meetings page.

Meetings are open to the public and are a great way to learn about staffing and become involved with the convention.

The full general meeting schedule for the year is available at our Meetings page. This year, some meetings will start at 12:00 noon and some at 1:00pm, so please make sure to check the start time of each meeting. This page will always show the most up-to-date scheduling information for meetings of the membership.

We hope to see you there!

April 2021

Golden Week Registration Sale

In celebration of Japan’s Golden Week, Kumoricon is having a registration sale! From April 29 to May 5, full weekend registrations will be only $45, and when the promotion ends the new tier price of $60 will be in effect.

Golden Week is a week-long celebration of four of Japan’s national holidays. The first is Showa Day (April 29), followed by Constitution Day (May 3), Greenery Day (May 4), and Children’s Day (May 5).

Please visit here to register!

DigiKumo Reruns for May

Did you miss your favorite event at DigiKumo? We’ll be replaying some of its most popular panels and events on our Twitch channel. Videos will be available for viewing on Twitch for two weeks after each replay, and will later be posted to YouTube.

Here is our schedule for May. Listed times are Pacific Time.

  • May 6, 7:00pm: Kamui Cosplay: The Cosplayer Behind the Builds
  • May 20, 7:00pm: Legendary Defenders: LIVE Reunion With the Cast of Voltron! (Kimberly Brooks, A.J. LoCascio, Josh Keaton)

DigiKumo Contest Winners Posted Online

Contest winners for DigiKumo are now listed on our website! Contests listed include:

  • AMV Contest
  • Cosplay Contest
  • Hall Cosplay Contest
  • Cosplay Lip Sync Showdown
  • Karaoke Idol and Hybrid
  • Fan Art Contest
  • Fan Fiction Contest
  • Gunpla Model Competition
  • Gaming:
    • Them’s Fightin’ Herds
    • Skullgirls: 2nd Encore
    • DRAGON BALL FighterZ
    • Mobile Suit Gundam: Extreme Vs. Maxi Boost ON
    • Guilty Gear XX Accent Core Plus
    • Riichi Mahjong
    • SMASH with Billy Kametz

Visit the contest winners page for the full winners list. We also have galleries of all entries available for the Fan Art Contest and Fan Fiction Contest.

Announcing DigiKumo Lite on July 17–18

We had so much fun with DigiKumo in 2020, we’re putting on a mini fundraising event while we wait for cons to come back!

DigiKumo Lite will run for 2 days on July 17–18 and be held entirely online!

For more updates on what to expect, keep an eye on our website and social media for announcements, and our DigiKumo Lite page for the latest information.

Artist Alley and Small Press Applications to Open April 25

Applications for Artist Alley and Small Press will open on April 25. Artist Alley applications will close on or before May 4, and Small Press applications will close on or before May 16. Watch for links to the applications to be posted April 25!

Art Enthusiasts Wanted!

Kumoricon is pleased to partner with our returning supporter XP-PEN in a new program to help artists!

Art Star is a way to get help with equipment, courses, media traffic, and spotlights in the community. Check out the link for details on improving your talents and you might find yourself winning the Kumoricon mascot contest one day!

April 24 General Meeting

Our next general meeting will take place on Saturday, April 24, 2021, at 1:00pm, and we will be holding it online. The meeting will be streamed in real time on Kumoricon’s Twitch channel. Staff and members of the public are welcome. Meeting attendees do not need a Twitch account in order to watch the meeting.

The board of directors has authorized member participation by remote communication for this meeting, under ORS 65.205. If you are a voting member (staff) of Kumoricon, you may officially participate in this meeting, including counting toward quorum and the ability to vote, using the procedures listed on our Meetings page.

Meetings are open to the public and are a great way to learn about staffing and become involved with the convention.

The full general meeting schedule for the year is available at our Meetings page. This year, some meetings will start at 12:00 noon and some at 1:00pm, so please make sure to check the start time of each meeting. This page will always show the most up-to-date scheduling information for meetings of the membership.

We hope to see you there!

Launching Our New Patreon

Kumoricon is getting a Patreon!

Subscribe for early looks, exclusive gifts, and to be included on votes about upcoming events. Check it out!

A Patreon for a con? Don’t you already get money from attendees?

Yes! And we’re so grateful to all our attendees. Our Patreon is an optional additional way to support Kumoricon as we work to bring more year-round content to all of you. Despite all the bad that’s happened during this pandemic, it has given an us an opportunity to experiment with digital content and think about how Kumoricon can evolve beyond just being a big event once a year.

What do I get for being a Kumoricon Patreon subscriber?

All sorts of things! We think we’ve created some pretty cool tiers and we’ll be working to make them even better. Check out the page for exact details.

If I subscribe to the Patreon do I still need to pay to attend Kumoricon?

We’re creating this Patreon to support our efforts to bring content in between Kumoricon primary events. Subscribing is optional (but very appreciated!) and separate from primary event attendance.

March 2021

DigiKumo Reruns for April

Did you miss your favorite event at DigiKumo? We’ll be replaying some of its most popular panels and events on our Twitch channel. Videos will be available for viewing on Twitch for two weeks after each replay, and will later be posted to YouTube.

Here is our schedule for April. Listed times are Pacific Time.

  • April 8, 7:00pm: Burning Rescue: Your Burning Questions With Promare Voice Actors LIVE (Billy Kametz, Alyson Leigh Rosenfeld, Kari Wahlgren, John Eric Bentley)
  • April 22, 7:00pm: John Eric Bentley Q&A

March 14 General Meeting

Our next general meeting will take place on Sunday, March 14, 2021, at 12:00 noon (note earlier than usual start time), and we will be holding it online. The meeting will be streamed in real time on Kumoricon’s Twitch channel. Staff and members of the public are welcome. Meeting attendees do not need a Twitch account in order to watch the meeting.

The board of directors has authorized member participation by remote communication for this meeting, under ORS 65.205. If you are a voting member (staff) of Kumoricon, you may officially participate in this meeting, including counting toward quorum and the ability to vote, using the procedures listed on our Meetings page.

Meetings are open to the public and are a great way to learn about staffing and become involved with the convention.

The full general meeting schedule for the year is available at our Meetings page. This year, some meetings will start at 12:00 noon and some at 1:00pm, so please make sure to check the start time of each meeting. This page will always show the most up-to-date scheduling information for meetings of the membership.

We hope to see you there!

February 2021

DigiKumo Reruns for March

Did you miss your favorite event at DigiKumo? We’ll be replaying some of its most popular panels and events on our Twitch channel. Videos will be available for viewing on Twitch for two weeks after each replay, and will later be posted to YouTube.

Here is our schedule for the rest of February and March. Listed times are Pacific Time.

  • February 25, 7:00pm: Living the Dream of an Anime Voice Actor with Billy Kametz
  • March 11, 7:00pm: ACME Q&A
  • March 25, 7:00pm: So You Wanna Be a Professional Cosplayer? (with Ginny Di)

February 27 General Meeting, and Meeting Schedule

The tentative general meeting schedule for the year is now available. This year, some meetings will start at 12:00 noon and some at 1:00pm, so please make sure to check the start time of each meeting. The Meetings page will always show the most up-to-date schedule for meetings of the membership. Meetings are open to the public and are a great way to learn about staffing and become involved with the convention.

Our first general meeting for the year will take place on Saturday, February 27, 2021, at 1:00pm, and we will be holding it online. The meeting will be streamed in real time on Kumoricon’s Twitch channel. Staff and members of the public are welcome. Meeting attendees do not need a Twitch account in order to watch the meeting.

The board of directors has authorized member participation by remote communication for this meeting, under ORS 65.205. If you are a voting member (staff) of Kumoricon, you may officially participate in this meeting, including counting toward quorum and the ability to vote, using the procedures listed on our Meetings page.

We hope to see you there!

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