Thousands expected to attend this year's Anime Milwaukee convention

 

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) -- Anime Milwaukee returns for a 16^th year this weekend.

The three-day convention welcomes Anime fans to take part in special events all weekend long at the Baird Center. This year's theme is Sweet 16, in honor of this year's milestone.

Anime is a Japanese style of animation with a diverse range of fans. The convention is all about celebrating culture and creativity, while giving fans a chance to connect.

This year, organizers say they expect 15,000 to 20,000 people to attend.

"We figured we'd have record growth, and we're already looking at that and meeting and beating those numbers, so we're really excited for that," said Luke Marsden, Anime Milwaukee communications director.

The weekend will be filled with live concerts, a rave, exhibitors, panel discussions, and a cosplay contest.

Cosplay is a big part of the convention and some plan months in advance for what outfit they want to show off.

"Cosplay kind of allows you to step into a character or show a different size of appreciation for a media, game, or movie or TV series that you might like," said Monnix, a cosplayer we spoke to.

Continuing to build this community of fans is what organizers say is so rewarding.

"We do this because we love it," said Marsden.

The convention runs March 8-10 at the Baird Center. Registration is open onsite or online.