East Tennessee's Anime Community
Where otaku culture thrives in the Smoky Mountains
Why East Tennessee Anime Fans Choose Knox Pop Con
Knox Pop Con is the heart of anime culture in East Tennessee. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, we've built a welcoming community for anime fans of all ages - whether you're into classic series like Naruto and Dragon Ball, or the latest hits like Jujutsu Kaisen and Spy x Family.
Based in Knoxville but serving fans across the entire East Tennessee region, we host watch parties, cosplay meetups, and cultural events that bring the anime community together.
Anime Events in East Tennessee
Anime Watch Parties
Watch new episodes together, marathon classic series, or discover hidden gems with fellow fans. Big screen, snacks, and great company!
Cosplay Meetups
Show off your cosplay, get photos, and meet other cosplayers. We host themed meetups for popular series and general cosplay hangouts.
Art & Creator Events
Connect with local anime artists, learn drawing techniques, and share your fan art with an appreciative audience.
Gaming Nights
Play anime-inspired games, from JRPGs to fighting games. Casual and competitive players welcome.
Anime Series Our Community Loves
Our community spans all anime genres and eras. Find your people here:
Serving Anime Fans Across East Tennessee
While we're based in Knoxville, our anime community welcomes fans from across the region:
- Knoxville Area: Downtown, West Knoxville, Farragut, Powell
- Oak Ridge: The Secret City's anime fans are welcome!
- Maryville/Alcoa: Blount County's otaku community
- Sevier County: Sevierville, Pigeon Forge, Gatlinburg
- Tri-Cities: Johnson City, Kingsport, Bristol
- Cookeville/Crossville: Upper Cumberland anime fans
We're the closest active anime community to the Great Smoky Mountains, making us a hub for fans throughout the region.
Manga & Light Novel Readers
Our community isn't just about anime - we welcome manga readers, light novel enthusiasts, and visual novel fans too. Join our discussions about:
Manga Reading Groups
Monthly reading clubs for popular series. Share recommendations and discuss the latest chapters.
Discord Discussions
Active channels for anime discussion, manga updates, and community chat 24/7.
Join East Tennessee's Anime Community
Follow Our Events
Subscribe to our newsletter for anime event announcements.
Join Discord
Connect with local anime fans in our active Discord server.
Attend a Watch Party
Come to a watch party and meet your fellow otaku in person!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there an anime convention in East Tennessee?
Knox Pop Con hosts annual festivals celebrating anime and Asian pop culture! While we're not a traditional anime-only convention, we feature anime-focused programming, cosplay contests, and vendor halls.
Are your events free?
Yes! As a nonprofit, we keep most events free. Watch parties, meetups, and community events are always free to attend.
Is cosplay required?
Never! While we love cosplay, it's always optional. Come as yourself and enjoy the anime community.
What age groups can join?
We welcome anime fans of all ages! Our youth programs serve ages 13-18, while general events are family-friendly.
Experience Asian Pop Culture Live
Anime Convention in Knoxville
Knoxville's premiere anime convention — May 2, 2026 at Bridgewater Place.
Knox Pop Con 2026
Full event details — performers, schedule, vendors, and more.
Get Tickets
General Admission from $30. VIP and Daesang passes available.
First-Timer's Guide
New to conventions? Everything you need to know before your first con.
2026 Events Calendar
The full calendar of K-Pop and anime events in Knoxville for 2026.
Ready to Join East Tennessee's Anime Family?
Connect with hundreds of anime fans in East Tennessee. Watch parties, cosplay meetups, and a welcoming community await!