A Milestone Anniversary with Evolving Attendance

Polymanga, the renowned festival celebrating manga, anime, and gaming culture, marked its 20th anniversary this Easter weekend at Beaulieu lausanne. While the event drew an impressive crowd of 47,000 attendees, organizers noted a slight dip in visitor numbers compared to the previous three years, which saw over 50,000 participants. This shift is attributed to the current complex economic climate impacting leisure spending.

Growing Family Appeal and Inclusive Atmosphere

Despite the overall attendance figures, Polymanga reported a important increase in younger attendees.The festival saw a doubling of children under the age of 9, with 3,000 present this year compared to 1,500 in the previous edition. This surge highlights Polymanga’s growing appeal as a family-friendly event. Organizers emphasized the festival’s commitment to creating a bubble of benevolence and inclusion, offering a welcoming space for fans of all ages and backgrounds.

Musical Highlights: Hironobu Kageyama’s Rare Appearance

One of the festival’s major draws was the rare appearance of legendary anime singer Hironobu Kageyama. Kageyama, known for his iconic theme songs, rarely travels outside japan. His two performances at the Beaulieu Theater on Sunday and Monday were met with enthusiastic crowds, filling the venue to capacity. This exclusive engagement underscored Polymanga’s commitment to bringing unique and sought-after talent to its audience.

Cosplay Extravaganza: Global Talent on Display

Polymanga remains a central hub for cosplay enthusiasts, featuring six elaborate shows and competitions throughout the weekend. The Polymanga Global Easter Cosplay event, a highlight of the festival, showcased extraordinary talent from around the world. this year, Canada took the top prize, followed by France and Italy. The public’s choice award was shared jointly by cosplayers from France and Canada, demonstrating the high caliber of artistry on display.

Industry insights: Studio Comix Wave Films and Fortiche Production

Beyond the entertainment, Polymanga provided a platform for industry professionals to share their expertise. The festival hosted conferences featuring Studio Comix Wave Films,with Japanese host Minoru Ohashi,and French studio Fortiche Production,renowned for their work on the critically acclaimed arcane series on Netflix.These sessions offered attendees valuable insights into the creative processes behind some of today’s most popular animated works.

Arcane has redefined animated storytelling,captivating audiences worldwide with its compelling narrative and stunning visuals.

Source: Animation Industry News, 2024

Artist Alley: A Showcase of Global Talent

The Village des Artistes, a dedicated hall within the festival, hosted over 115 illustrators from around the globe. This space provided a platform for artists to showcase their work, connect with fans, and network with other creatives. The diverse range of styles and perspectives on display highlighted the global reach and influence of manga and anime art.

Looking Ahead: Polymanga 2026

As Polymanga concludes its 20th-anniversary celebration, the organizing team is already looking ahead to future editions. Acknowledging the current economic challenges, they are committed to adapting and innovating to ensure the festival’s continued success. Polymanga is scheduled to return during the Easter weekend, from April 3rd to 6th, 2026.