If you're into anime and live in DFW you're honestly spoiled. AnimeFest in Dallas every August is the big one — been going since 2019 and it keeps getting better. The artist alley alone is worth the badge price.
A-Kon moved around a lot but when it lands in Fort Worth the Sundance Square afterparties hit different. Smaller cons like IKKiCON in Austin are worth the drive too if you want something more chill.
My go-to strategy: buy badges early, bring cash for artist alley, and book the con hotel even if it's pricier because stumbling back to your room at 2am beats driving home.
Anyone going to AnimeFest this year? Trying to put together a group.