Get ready to take the stage! Karaoke Open Mic is returning to Anime USA 2026, giving attendees the opportunity to sing their favorite songs from anime, video games, and more.
Whether you have a favorite anime opening, an unforgettable game soundtrack, or a song you just can't get out of your head, Karaoke Open Mic is the perfect place to share your enthusiasm and show off your vocal talents.
Karaoke Open Mic will be available all three days of the convention, with operating hours varying each day. Be sure to check the official convention schedule for specific times and room locations.
Returning from last year, we will once again be using Karaoke Mugen to manage song selections and the performance queue. QR codes will be available throughout the karaoke room, allowing attendees to easily access the system, select songs, and check their position in the queue directly from their mobile devices.
Have a song request? Let our karaoke staff know during the convention! While we cannot guarantee every request, we will do our best to accommodate additional song selections.
We look forward to hearing you sing at Anime USA 2026!
Get ready to showcase your vocal talents! The Karaoke Contest returns to Anime USA 2026 on Saturday, inviting attendees to compete with performances inspired by anime, video games, and otaku culture.
Whether you're performing solo or teaming up with friends, this is your chance to take the stage and show off your singing skills!
The Karaoke Contest will feature two rounds of competition:
Preliminary Round: All registered contestants will perform their selected songs. Following this round, the top four entries will advance to the finals.
Final Round: The four finalists will return to the stage to perform a different song and compete for the top honors.
Contest participation is limited, and registration does not guarantee a spot in the competition.
Contestants who register before the convention will receive confirmation of their participation status via email. Those registering in person during the convention will be notified of their status on-site.
Once all available spots have been filled, additional applicants will be placed on a backup list. If a confirmed contestant withdraws or fails to appear, individuals on the backup list may be offered an opportunity to compete.
Participation Requirements
Contestants may enter individually or as part of a group:
Single Entry: One performer.
Group Entry: Two or three performers.
Each individual may compete only once, whether as a solo performer or as part of a group. For group entries, all members must actively sing during each round. Group membership must remain consistent throughout the competition, and substitutions or rotations are not permitted.
Song Selection
Contestants may select songs originating from anime, video games, or general otaku culture.
Each contestant is permitted one English-language song, provided it aligns with the contest's theme and receives staff approval. Songs in English or other non-Japanese languages that originate from official anime dubs or video games are also acceptable.
Content Guidelines
All performances must be family-friendly and appropriate for audiences of all ages.
Contest staff will review song selections before performances. Songs containing racial slurs, excessive vulgarity, obscene content, or insulting language will not be permitted.
Karaoke Contest staff reserve the right to stop any performance and disqualify contestants if the performance is deemed inappropriate.
Performance Requirements
Contestants must prepare a different song for each round of the competition.
Each song has a maximum performance time of 3 minutes and 30 seconds.
An additional 10-second grace period will be allowed.
Contestants are strongly encouraged to edit their audio tracks to meet the time limit before submitting them.
The guidelines above provide an overview of the contest requirements. Additional rules and participation details apply.
All interested contestants are required to review the complete Karaoke Contest Rules before registering. Familiarizing yourself with these requirements will help ensure a smooth and enjoyable competition for everyone.
We look forward to seeing you take the stage at Anime USA 2026!