MAG-C Erfurt 2026: A Deep Dive into the Growing World of Anime, Gaming & Cosplay
The recent MAG-C convention in Erfurt, Germany, held January 31st and February 1st, 2026, showcased significant growth and evolving trends within the anime, gaming, and cosplay communities. With 165 exhibitors from 15 countries – a 30% increase from the previous year – the event solidified its position as a key gathering for fans and industry professionals alike.
The Rise of International Participation
MAG-C 2026 saw a notable increase in international representation. France led the way with the largest contingent of foreign exhibitors (14), followed by the Netherlands, Poland, and Italy. For the first time, companies and artists from Belgium, China, Greece, Hungary, Portugal, and the USA participated, demonstrating the convention’s expanding global reach. This international flavor was further emphasized by the presence of VIP guests like Italian cosplayer Taryn, boasting 1.4 million Instagram followers, and Japanese singer-songwriter HANCE, with over 54,000 Instagram followers.
Cosplay: More Than Just Costumes
Cosplay remained a central pillar of the MAG-C experience. The event featured competitive elements like the Cosplay Championship, won by KathysCoscraft, and the Cosplay Showcup, taken home by xChillPill & Sternchen. Beyond competition, workshops and open formats allowed attendees to hone their skills in areas like makeup and costume construction. The Cosplay Catwalk and a dedicated photo contest further celebrated the creativity within the community. Patrick_ulr was recognized as the winner of the photo contest.
Interactive Experiences and Community Building
MAG-C 2026 placed a strong emphasis on interactive experiences. New concept areas, the Creative Forge and the Community Garden, provided spaces for hands-on activities. Workshops covered topics ranging from cosplay makeup and social media strategy to K-Pop dance and 3D printing. The Community Garden fostered connection through meetups and interactive sessions, including K-Pop dance training led by professional dancer Makschi Boo. The Gaming Area actively engaged attendees with gaming sessions and a crash course in game development.
Gaming Takes Center Stage
The Gaming Area wasn’t just about playing games; it was about learning and experiencing them. Sessions focused on titles like Cake Bash and Overcooked, and a games crash course offered insights into the development process. The Indie Award highlighted emerging talent, with RECUR by kaleidoscube taking the top prize. All showcased games were playable on-site, allowing attendees to directly engage with the creators and their work. The event was moderated by Hai Do, founder of UWU, the Anime Drink.
The Power of Creators and Social Media
The presence of prominent creators significantly amplified the event’s reach. Cosmiplay, with 2 million TikTok followers, contributed to the overall visibility. Collectively, the attending cosplayers generated an estimated combined reach of around 2 million followers. The livestream of the event also proved successful, with Malternativ reaching around 20,000 unique viewers and a combined total of 25,000 unique viewers with Primalevera. Live viewership on Twitch reached 1,888 on Saturday and 1,662 on Sunday.
Anime Rave and After-Party Success
The Anime Rave after-party at the CongressCenter Erfurt was a resounding success, reaching a new attendance record of approximately 700 guests. DJ Alex Kade, who traveled from Canada for the event, was a key musical highlight.
Positive Feedback from Exhibitors
Exhibitors reported high visitor traffic, engaging interactions, and a receptive community. The willingness of attendees to engage in conversation, the thematic diversity of the event, and the strong involvement of artists and creators were particularly praised.
Looking Ahead: Trends Shaping the Future of Conventions
The success of MAG-C 2026 points to several key trends shaping the future of these types of conventions:
Increased Internationalization
The growing number of international exhibitors and attendees suggests a continued trend towards globalization within these communities. Conventions will likely become increasingly diverse, reflecting the global nature of anime, gaming, and cosplay fandoms.
Emphasis on Interactive Experiences
Attendees are no longer content to simply observe; they want to participate. The success of the Creative Forge and Community Garden demonstrates the demand for hands-on workshops, collaborative activities, and spaces for community building.
The Rise of the Creator Economy
The presence of prominent creators and the impact of social media highlight the growing influence of the creator economy. Conventions will likely continue to feature and collaborate with influencers, providing them with platforms to connect with their fans and promote their work.
Hybrid Events and Digital Engagement
The livestreaming of the event and the strong online engagement demonstrate the potential of hybrid events. Conventions may increasingly incorporate digital components to reach a wider audience and provide ongoing engagement beyond the physical event.
FAQ
Q: When and where will the next MAG-C capture place?
A: The next MAG-C will be held on January 23rd and 24th, 2027, at the Messe Erfurt in Germany.
Q: What is the “Codewort PANAMA”?
A: “PANAMA” is a codeword used at the convention to discreetly request help if someone feels uncomfortable, threatened, or harassed. Staff are trained to respond immediately and provide assistance.
Q: What types of activities are offered at MAG-C?
A: MAG-C offers a wide range of activities, including cosplay competitions, workshops, gaming sessions, artist showcases, and opportunities to connect with fellow fans.
Q: How can I stay updated on MAG-C news and announcements?
A: You can follow MAG-C on Instagram (@magc.erfurt), Facebook (@magcerfurt), TikTok (@magc_erfurt), and YouTube (@magcerfurt).
Pro Tip: Don’t be afraid to engage with the artists and creators at the convention! They often offer unique insights and opportunities to learn.
Did you know? The awareness team and security personnel are available throughout the event to ensure a safe and welcoming environment for all attendees.
Interested in learning more about the world of anime and gaming? Explore our other articles here. Share your MAG-C experiences in the comments below!
