'The creativity is amazing': Anime Milwaukee holds 15th convention at Wisconsin Center this weekend

 

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Don't be surprised if you see folks in detailed, colorful costumes in Downtown Milwaukee this weekend.

10,000 people a day are expected at the Wisconsin Center for the Anime Milwaukee convention, which runs Friday through Sunday.

The convention brings together fans of Japanese-style animation and fashion.

"It's just having fun with people who share similar interests as you," said visitor, Lillian Cassidy. "I just like seeing everybody's different costumes. The creativity is amazing too."

The convention features art shows and an exhibit hall, with several other entertainment events.

"All sorts of different live shows, we get voice actors out here doing panels, Q and A's and performances," said Luke Marsden, communication director for Anime Milwaukee.

The biggest draw is cosplay, with guests dressed up in handmade costumes to portray their favorite characters.

"I'm actually one of the cosplay contest judges this weekend. So, I'm looking forward to seeing the best cosplay Milwaukee can bring," said attendee, Beth Krueger.

Organizers are expecting a record turnout for their 15th year.

"When I first started coming here, it was maybe 6,000 people, and it's doubled in that time," Krueger said.

"It really is a testament to people wanting to come out to these events, and see friends, and get to experience it," Marsden said.

The city that is known for its outdoor festivals is now capitalizing on indoor conventions.

Anime Milwaukee alone is expected to bring a $3.1 million economic impact to the downtown area.

"Several of the hotels in the area are completely full. So, we get people that come in from all over the country, people even from out of country that come to these events," Marsden said.

The cream city provides a perfect place for fans to geek out.

"Anything that you're into, you'll find somebody here who's also into it," Kreuger said.

Anime Milwaukee runs through Sunday, Feb. 5.

Registration is at the Wisconsin Center from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. each day.