#Japan #Ikebukuro #Japanese Culture #Halloween Cosplay

Ikebukuro Halloween Cosplay Festival 2025

The Ikebukuro Halloween Cosplay Festival, now in its 12th year, took place from October 24 to 26, 2025. Hosted by a committee including Dwango, Toshima City, Sunshine City, Animate, and Hakosta, the festival attracted 161,000 participants, marking a significant increase in attendance compared to previous years. This event has become a focal point for cosplay enthusiasts, shining a light on Japan's unique subculture and versatility.

Special Ceremonies and Events

The festival kicked off on October 24 with the exciting 'Ikebukuro Halloween Night,' held at Sunshine City. The atmosphere was electric, as cosplayers and photographers mingled and took advantage of the captivating evening backdrop to showcase their costumes. The newly introduced underground parking filming area became a hotspot, filled with eager fans taking photos.

From October 25 to 26, the event opened its doors at 10 AM, spreading across the eastern area of Ikebukuro, involving several photography locations such as Ikebukuro Park, Sunshine City, Ikebukuro East Park, and others. The highlight of October 25 was the 'Ikebukuro Halloween Special Ceremony.' Notable figures, including Toshima City Mayor Miyuki Takagi and Dwango Director Daisuke Yokozawa, made special appearances dressed as popular characters, energizing the crowd.

Around 400 cosplayers then paraded through the streets, marching from Sunshine 60 Street to the front of Hareza Ikebukuro, accompanied by live performances from a marching band. Despite the rain, the vibrant spectacle garnered enthusiastic cheers from bystanders, showcasing the unity and passion within the cosplay community.

The main stage at Ikebukuro Park featured a variety of performances including 'Niconico Cosplayction' and 'Halloween Fun for Families,' fostering an inclusive environment where attendees, young and old, could celebrate their favorite characters. Joyful scenes of children discovering beloved characters were prevalent, highlighting the festival's family-friendly atmosphere.

Additionally, the festival introduced the first-ever 'Ikebukuro Halloween Food Festival,' offering themed snacks such as Halloween churros and monster lattes, much to the delight of participants. Attendees enjoyed not only the cosplay but also culinary delights that captured the Halloween spirit.

International Participation

This year saw a marked increase in international visitors, particularly photographers eager to capture the essence of Japan’s cosplay culture. Many participants engaged with elements of Japan, such as traditional rickshaws and matcha drinks, enhancing the event’s international flair. This welcomed diversity not only elevated the festival experience but also strengthened its identity as a global event.

Going forward, the Ikebukuro Halloween Cosplay Festival aims to continue promoting the joy and safety of cosplay, representing a key facet of Japan's vibrant culture, while also emphasizing community revitalization.

Event Summary

• - Event Name: Ikebukuro Halloween Cosplay Festival 2025 Powered by Dwango
• - Dates: October 24 (Friday) - 26 (Sunday), 2025

- October 24: 4:30 PM - 10:30 PM (Ikebukuro Halloween Night)
- October 25-26: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM

• - Location: Ikebukuro area

Organizers and Supporters

The festival was successfully organized by the Ikebukuro Halloween Cosplay Festival Executive Committee, in collaboration with Toshima City and various local organizations. Support from sponsors such as Zootopia 2 and Canon Marketing Japan enriched the event.

For more information, visit the official website here or follow Niconico on X.