Otakon is a convention dedicated to Japanese animation called Anime.
The title of the convention is from what it is about.
Anime Fans are known as Otaku. Put two and two together (or is it 1 and 1?) you get Otakon, Otaku+Convetion, Otakon.
This convention takes place in Baltimore, Maryland once a year. This convention has taken place since 1994 (if that's wrong, please do correct me via e-mail.
Last year was the first Year I've went (2002). It was a new experience, I almost messed my pants when I was guaranteed to go. Unfortunately I only went on One day, which was Saturday. But it was a lot of fun. As this is my first convention, I can't really compare it to any other, but I can guess it is similar to any other con. watch movies, watch episodes of fansubs (Anime that are yet to be licensed in America, that has subtitles added by groups of fans) and look at many other attractions. Oh yeah... and buying stuff from the dealers room. Also visiting Guests such as singers, or directors/producers of popular anime and Jpop.
Also, one big thing is Cosplay. It is Playing as a character, in the character's Costume. Although I hadn't dressed as anything last year, I might this year. Either as Trunks (DBZ/GT) or Shinji (Evangelion). But as I did cut my hair, I dont think I'll still do Trunks. Maybe shinji, but I'm too damn dark and short. hah. Cosplay is fun and big. Especially when someone takes a picture of you and posts it on the internet. woo woo.
Tips on people going who live in the area of the Baltimore Convention Center:
- Bring like $100 if you plan on buying stuff. It's kind of expensive as most things are imports. Even if you can find something cheaper somewhere else, it's feels good that you leave with items. (Also the registration is like ... like ~$30 I think... so that's a lot, which is for like one day. Unless you pre-register which is a way to save LOTS of money (depending on when you register you can pay $35 for all 3 days) I only brought like $150 last year.. and only spent like $50 just for registration and food. But!
- Eating will be costly (or something) eat at Burger King or something! Drink coffee at the 20,000 StarBucks there, if you woke up early or if you're sleepy by the end of the day!
- Ignore all faggoty Otaku! (I think I was unclear about the faggoty part, maybe I just have hate, or am I a racist or something? I was referring to those nerdy mother fuckers, most often are pasty white kids that are complete dorks and often times obeist otaku (i.e. fat, wearing a tight ass, girl's shirt with chinese or japanese symbols that says something commonly said, but if it were spelt in english on the shirt; would look like a giant jackass)
these are just a few steps.. I'll add more later when Otakon gets nearer. FUCK THAT!
Sorry I don't have much steps for people out of the area... but there are on many other websites.