PASIG CITY, Philippines — Fans of otome and shoujo culture are set to gather for MaiFaire 2026 (Shoujo Session), a one-day themed convention scheduled for March at the Bayanihan Center. Branded as Maiden’s Faire, the event celebrates romantic fantasy fandom while offering attendees an interactive, character-driven experience focused on storytelling and fan engagement.
Otome and shoujo media are known for their emphasis on romance, character relationships, and emotional narratives. Franchises such as Fruits Basket and Ouran High School Host Club have introduced shoujo storytelling to global audiences, inspiring dedicated communities beyond Japan.
A romantic gathering for Maidens
MaiFaire 2026 places attendees, known as Maidens, at the center of a fantasy-inspired experience. A featured highlight is a segment where a group of Bachelors interacts with guests through staged performances, activities, and themed programming. The convention will also host artist booths, exhibitors, cosplay appearances, contests, and interactive sessions designed to encourage creativity and community participation.
Interactive campaigns and fan engagement
The event will feature Raburetta Cards, a bingo-style participation campaign that motivates attendees to visit artist circles and exhibitor booths to complete themed challenges for prizes. Similar campaigns have been used at conventions worldwide to promote artist visibility and boost attendee interaction.
Attendees can also look forward to curated giveaways, including merchandise and promotional items from participating exhibitors, designed to enhance the overall fan experience.
Niche conventions gaining momentum in the Philippines
The Philippine anime convention scene has expanded to include both large-scale expos and smaller, genre-specific events. Venues such as the SMX Convention Center Manila and Bayanihan Center continue to host gatherings that cater to anime, cosplay, and gaming communities.
Industry observers note that specialized conventions like MaiFaire respond to growing demand for curated experiences focusing on genres such as shoujo, josei, and otome game culture, complementing broader anime events.
With romantic fantasy stories reaching wider audiences through streaming services and manga platforms, MaiFaire 2026 provides fans a dedicated space to celebrate shared passions and connect with artists and creators. Organizers expressed excitement in welcoming attendees to what they describe as a heartfelt celebration of romance-themed pop culture in the Philippines.