MANILA, Philippines — Cosplay fans across the country are gearing up for Cosplay Carnival 2026: Eternal Emerald, set to take place this weekend, March 28 and 29, at the SMX Convention Center Manila. The two day event is expected to draw thousands of attendees for a vibrant celebration of anime, cosplay, and pop culture.
Organized by Cosplay.ph, the convention serves as the opening chapter of the 2026 Prisma Saga series, promising a packed program of competitions, stage segments, international guests, and live music performances.
Full Event Lineup
Cosplay Carnival 2026 will feature a wide range of activities across both days, catering to fans of cosplay, music, and interactive entertainment.
Day 1 (March 28):
Attendees can expect cosplay auctions, stage presentations, and fan driven segments such as Cosplay Karaoke and Just Duet. Guest appearances include DJ Sigrid, Who-ya Extended, and halca, who will also participate in Q and A sessions. The day concludes with the JAM Concert x SACRA MUSIC Night, headlined by the same artists.
Day 2 (March 29):
The second day opens with additional cosplay activities and competitions. Guest sessions will feature Naomi Payton and Unorthodoxdesign, along with cosplay performances from international guest Taotan. The program wraps up with a group dance battle, awarding ceremonies, and another JAM Concert showcase.
JAM Concert Brings J Music to Manila
A major highlight of the event is the JAM Concert, recognized as one of the Philippines’ biggest showcases of Japanese anime music. This year’s lineup includes halca, Who-ya Extended, Naomi Payton, and DJ Sigrid, delivering live performances of anime theme songs and J pop hits across both nights.
The concert segment underscores the growing popularity of Japanese music in the Philippines, fueled by anime streaming and fan engagement.
International Guests and Fan Engagement
Cosplay Carnival 2026 also welcomes international cosplayer Taotan, who will take part in panels, meet and greets, and stage performances. Additional creators and performers, including Unorthodoxdesign, contribute to a diverse and interactive program aimed at connecting fans with industry personalities.
A Cornerstone of Philippine Cosplay Culture
Since its inception in 2008, Cosplay Carnival has become a flagship event in the local fandom scene. Events organized by Cosplay.ph continue to attract increasing attendance, reflecting the Philippines’ growing role as a hub for anime and cosplay culture in Southeast Asia.
Industry observers note that conventions like Cosplay Carnival provide a platform for Filipino talent while fostering collaboration with international artists and creators.
What Fans Can Expect
From cosplay competitions and exhibitor booths to guest meet and greets and live music, attendees can expect a full scale convention experience. The event combines fan participation with professional performances, making it a key highlight in the 2026 Philippine pop culture calendar.
As Cosplay Carnival 2026 opens its doors, fans from across the country are set to gather for a high energy celebration of creativity, community, and shared passion for anime and cosplay.