News Summary
Saboten Con, the largest anime convention in Arizona, is set to take place in Phoenix from September 1-4, 2023. This year’s theme, ‘Legendary Rivals,’ will celebrate anime and gaming culture with various activities, including panels, workshops, and a Masquerade costume contest. Attendees can expect hundreds of vendors, live performances, and opportunities to meet popular voice actors. With previous attendance numbers reaching over 23,000, the convention is known for its inclusivity and vibrant atmosphere, making it a must-visit event for anime enthusiasts.
Phoenix, Arizona will play host to the annual Saboten Con from September 1-4, 2023. As the largest anime convention in the state, Saboten Con promises a vibrant celebration of the “Legendary Rivals” theme during its 15th anniversary this year. Organized by Monkey Paw Entertainment, this four-day event aims to bring together a diverse community of anime and gaming enthusiasts.
Tickets for Saboten Con are priced starting at $25. Additionally, weekend badges are available at the door for $60, or $55 when purchased online. The convention will take place at the Sheraton Downtown Phoenix, where attendees can expect an energetic atmosphere filled with various activities. Each day of the convention will kick off at 10 a.m. for registration, with exhibits opening at 11 a.m.. The event will feature extended hours, remaining open until 2 a.m. on Sunday and 6 p.m. on Monday.
Saboten Con 2023 will showcase hundreds of vendors and artists, creating a bustling market environment for attendees to shop for unique souvenirs. In addition to the vendor hall, the convention will offer hundreds of hours of programming, including panels and workshops that delve into the art of cosplay. Guests will also have opportunities to meet popular voice actors from the anime and gaming sectors.
In response to growing interest, Saboten Con previously attracted over 23,000 unique attendees in 2021, with a total of 50,000 turnstile admissions. In 2018, the event saw significant numbers as well, selling over 13,000 tickets and achieving nearly 38,000 turnstile attendance.
The convention is renowned for its inclusivity and is committed to fostering a welcoming community for all attendees. This year’s theme of “Legendary Rivals” reflects the intense competitions and iconic matchups celebrated in anime and gaming culture. Throughout the four days, attendees can participate in various activities including gaming tournaments and a Masquerade costume contest, showcasing their creativity and passion for the genre.
The event will also feature live performances from musical guests, adding to the lively atmosphere that characterizes Saboten Con. Drawing fans from across the region, the convention provides a platform for connection, creativity, and celebration of fandoms.
Saboten Con, which translates to “cactus” in Japanese, has become an integral part of Phoenix’s cultural calendar. As it marks its 15th year, the organizers are excited to continue the tradition of celebrating anime and gaming culture in a festive environment.
Attendees are encouraged to take advantage of the early registration options to avoid crowds and maximize their enjoyment of the numerous activities planned. With a mix of engaging panels, interactive workshops, and networking opportunities with fellow fans and industry professionals, Saboten Con 2023 seems poised for another successful year.
For fans of anime and gaming, Saboten Con is the place to be this Labor Day weekend in Phoenix, offering not only entertainment but also a chance to connect with like-minded individuals in a supportive setting.
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Additional Resources
- Signals AZ: Saboten Con 2025
- AZCentral: Saboten Con in Phoenix
- ABC15: What’s Happening Labor Day Weekend
- Wikipedia: Saboten Con
- Google Search: Saboten Con 2023
Author: STAFF HERE PHOENIX WRITER
PHOENIX STAFF WRITER The PHOENIX STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREPhoenix.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Phoenix, Maricopa County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as the Waste Management Phoenix Open, Cactus League Spring Training, and Arizona State Fair. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Phoenix Chamber of Commerce and Visit Phoenix, plus leading businesses in technology and healthcare that power the local economy such as Intel and Banner Health. As part of the broader HERE network, including HERETucson.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Arizona's dynamic landscape.
