8Bit/Digi

YumeCon USA has been a growing staple of the Bay Area Fandom community for some time, and their 2025 event shows they will continue to do so. Following its success as a two-day event, YumeCon USA has now embraced a larger venue for the 2025 event. Hosted at the San Jose DoubleTree, the new venue gave the convention more room than ever while also allowing fans to have another festive weekend.

YumeCon USA 2025 saw the fandom community congregate at the San Jose DoubleTree for a festive weekend. They were joined by special guests and members of the fandom community. After months of planning and waiting, these are the highlights of YumeCon USA 2025.

Dealers Hall  & Artist Ally

YumeCon USA 2025 featured more than 50 merchants and artists in the dealers’ hall on the first floor. Fans could browse a wide range of treasures, including fan art, published works from indie authors, and collectible merchandise. It was an ideal spot to support creators while finding something special to take home. Even if one had no shopping agenda, it’s still fun to look through all the cool stuff and meet the many artists.

Creepysweets is an artist who blends creepy aesthetics with sweet, charming elements to create eye-catching pieces. Their work draws inspiration from horror anime, cartoons, and video games, resulting in a style that stands out immediately. Guests could stop by their booth whenever something grabbed their attention, whether it was the striking original artwork or the variety of memorabilia, including keychains and stickers.

Geo Monjes is an artist and freelance illustrator known for their unique style. Their booth would get your attention right away with  their artwork that focuses on cars featured in anime, such as the Toyota AE86 from Initial D. They also sold bumperstickers and other merchandise.

Panels of YumeCon USA

YumeCon USA organized a series of panels throughout the weekend that offered insight into a specific topic, provided an inside look into each guest’s career, or delivered plenty of entertainment. These are some of the panels I had the chance to attend during the event.

The Foundation for the Eradication of Gen 5 Pokémon has long been a staple of the Bay Area fandom community, so their presence at YumeCon USA felt inevitable. Over the weekend, they premiered two new panels that showcased their signature humor and creativity. Accepting Live Action Adaptations focused on defending live-action anime adaptations and why they deserve more credit. Anime Villain Solution LLC offered a PR spin for some of anime’s most notorious villains. They closed their run with the classic Waluigi Time, a fan-favorite panel celebrating why Waluigi is unquestionably the best.

Hear Me Out allowed audiences to share a character from anime or any other work of pop culture they have the hots for without any logical explanation. The rules were don’t be creepy and don’t be basic. Those deemed worthy would be added to the cake.

The First Evangelion Fansub explored 90s anime fandom and how Neon Genesis Evangelion built momentum in America before its official dub. Thanks to anime-focused BBS channels moderated by Steve Peral (better known as The Otaku King), word about Evangelion was already trickling into America. Meanwhile, fans in Japan were kicking off translation efforts, with the first episode being subtitled just days after it premiered. It’s an insightful story with local roots that many are often unaware of, despite the impact it had on one of the most iconic series.

Things to Do at YumeCon USA

Video Game and Tabletop had a variety of options from arcade machines to console setups, along with tabletop games. Also in the gameroom were several gattcha machines for those who wanted to win that special collectible. Outside the room were several tables set up for those who wanted to learn how to paint miniatures.

While not organized by YumeCon USA, there were random moments in which guests would gather for a game of Pokémon Go. With several gyms around the area, there were moments when attendees would gather to participate in raids. They would also attempt to take the gym for their team. Others would take a break and catch any Pokémon within their area.

Ai Hoshi Cafe organized and hosted the maid cafe for YumeCon USA. Guests enjoyed a selection of tasty treats while playing fun games or watching a lively performance by the staff.

Special guests were present throughout the event, giving fans plenty of opportunities to meet them. Emi Lo from Cyberpunk: Edgerunners and SungWon Cho from Solo Leveling were the guests of honor at YumeCon USA 2025. Attendees could visit them at their booths or attend their panels, which offered an insightful look into their work.

Live Shows

The main stage hosted a variety of live musical performances throughout the weekend. The shows ranged from idol acts to anime inspired groups that brought plenty of energy. Two performances I attended were by Trademark and Aimai Mira. Trademark is a Bay Area idol duo known for appearing at numerous anime events and conventions. Aimai Mira is an anisong band also based in the Bay Area, recognized for their standout live shows at major events like Anime Expo.

Cosplayers of YumeCon USA

During the YumeCon USA 2025 weekend, many cosplayers were out in their best or favorite work. There are cosplayers who are dedicated to bringing their favorite character to life. Others will add their own personal style or a special twist.

Did you get a chance to check out YumeCon USA 2025? If so then share your story in the comment section below.

Disclaimer: YumeCon USA provided me with a pass for the weekend

8Bit/Digi is an independent media outlet that provides insight into the gamer community of the San Francisco Bay Area.