Nikapon de Avilés, 2025
Speaking of events that bring together the best of otaku culture, art, and entertainment, Nikapon de Avilés is a must-attend. Held annually in April, it has earned a special place in the hearts of fans, both for its unique charm and its ability to capture the essence of Asian pop culture.
The 2025 edition promises to exceed all expectations and, as always, will be for all ages, with no risky activities, guaranteeing the safety and coexistence of attendees, although children under 14 must be accompanied by an adult. It is recommended that one adult not be in charge of more than 4 minors; additionally, they will be prohibited from buying and consuming alcohol.
Origins and History: A Small Gem in Asturias
Nikapon had its first edition in 2015, as an initiative to bring an otaku event to Avilés that could attract both local and regional fans. From its beginnings, it stood out for its welcoming atmosphere, combining creative activities with a meeting place for manga, anime, and video game lovers.
Over the years, it grew exponentially, going from being a regional event to becoming one of the benchmarks in northern Spain. The incorporation of international guests, innovative contests, and a varied program have made this event an essential date for the community.
It is a non-profit event, therefore, it tries to remain free or at affordable prices, with free entry (subject to capacity), as well as most of its activities.
The 2025 edition promises to be unforgettable. With a program that combines tradition and innovation, incorporating new activities and surprises designed for all audiences. Below we show you a little of what awaits you if you attend.
Featured Guests
Among those confirmed are:
· David Flores, voice of characters such as Roy Mustang (FullMetal Alchemist), Android 17 (DragonBall) and Sukuna (Jujutsu Kaisen), who will be part of the new dubbing area sponsored by @voicesdoblaje. With more than 15 years of experience, he has also participated in series and films such as Fantastic Beasts 2, Sakura Card Captor and Akame Ga Kill.
· Enrique Carmena Voice actor since 2011, who will also be in the new dubbing area. He has worked on projects such as BLUELOCK, Frieren, Beyblade Burst, Cryptmaster, Call of Duty and Assassin's Creed. He has also been an illustrator for franchises such as The Binding of Isaac and Teatrónime, and has published in several anthologies.
· Shaun Elay, known as the only artist in the world who illustrates in negative live while the public can interact with her work using any mobile device; something she will do throughout the event. In addition, she will present a collection of her most current works and will hold a photo and signing session at her booth.
· Jaime Aza, Asturian author of "Movies that will brainwash you" and "Jo Jo’s: bizarre adventure”. Passionate about geek culture, his work combines accessibility, research and visual references. He will be at the Dolmen Editorial booth, sharing his creative vision, writing anecdotes and his passion for stories that challenge reality.
There will also be international cosplayers such as: Ittara, an official animator cosplayer who, along with other excellent cosplayers, will be a judge in the Cosplay Contest, and will share her experiences in the world of professional cosplay during an interactive talk.
Unmissable Contests and Activities
Contests are the soul of Nikapon, so they couldn't be missing.
The Cosplay Competition will have a special theme dedicated to classic anime, with prizes that include trips to international events. In addition, the Cover Dance and Karaoke competitions return so attendees can show off their talent.
There will also be conferences for all tastes, with schedules organized so you don't miss any:
· Haikus: The Beauty of a Moment
·Introduction to Cosplay
·Tools to Start Role-playing
·Playing as a Family: Strategies to Gamify Daily Life (There will be a 1-hour practical session after the conference)
·The World of Dubbing
·The Legend of DragonBall
·Beyond One Piece
·Technological Applications of Origami
·Asturian with Geek Eyes (Taught in Asturian)
·Lolita World: History, Evolution, and Present
·Dad! Mom! When I grow up, I want to work in the manga industry
·Manga Creation and Narrative
·"Old Fart Geek" Kahoot
·Japan and the West: Relations Through Time
And workshops such as: Gastro from The Japanese Tea Hub, with limited spaces. And areas for Ancient Fencing, Bujinkan, Roman, Celtic-Viking, Multi-purpose Area, Tea Hub and K-Pop, among others.
Ample space dedicated to board games, wargames, and role-playing, mostly on the second floor of the pavilion. This time, the role-playing offer is expanded, including children's role-playing, and there will be a GT40K tournament.
Video game tournaments couldn't be missing either. More than 20 consoles, both modern (including PS5) and retro (including arcade machines) and the mini-pixel games area. Among them Super Smash Bros Ultimate, Squad Strike and Squad Strike, with prizes from 40 to 200 euros.
Commercial and Gastronomic Zone
A large commercial area, with around 100 stalls of various themes, where you can find exclusive products from your favorite series.
And this is where Espadas y Más couldn't be absent, with a wide variety of katanas, swords, weapons, figures and various products from your favorite anime, comics and manga.
The gastronomic area is another highlight, with Asian food stalls ranging from ramen and takoyaki to Korean sweets and bubble tea. A variety of traditional food that you will want to taste, including specialties for vegans. Perfect for recharging energy while enjoying one of the most anticipated events of the year.
An Event that Unites the Community
More than an event, it's a meeting point for fans, where they can share their passion and create unforgettable memories. With a rich and varied program and a passionate community, this promises to be an edition that will be etched in memory.
If you are a manga, anime, or video game lover, or are looking for a unique experience, Nikapon Avilés 2025 is an event you won't want to miss.
