IBERANIME 2025
A Celebration of Japanese Culture Beyond Anime
Hello, everyone! Welcome to this month’s newsletter. On May 17 I had a chance to cover The IBERANIME 2025. As a photographer and content creator, I had an absolute blast capturing the vibrant energy of the event, from the stunning cosplayers who brought their favorite anime characters to life, to the talented local artists showcasing their amazing work. It was more than just a convention about anime; it was a celebration of Japanese culture, and I walked away with not just great photos, but also some fascinating new insights. A huge thank you to Fábio Nunes for inviting me to cover this amazing event and shoutout to my friend Irene as well for assisting me throughout the convention. Here’s a look at some of my favorite moments.
About IBERANIME
IBERANIME has grown from its first edition in 2010 to become Portugal's premier Japanese pop culture festival. With events in Porto, and now Santarém, it attracts tens of thousands of visitors annually. The festival's success stems from its unique blend of commercial offerings and community-focused programming, creating an inclusive space for fans of all levels. As it continues to expand, IBERANIME remains committed to bringing the best of Japanese culture to Portuguese audiences while supporting local artists and creators. When I received an invitation to attend IBERANIME 2025 in Santarém on May 17, I wasn't entirely sure what to expect. As someone who enjoys anime, I was pleasantly surprised by how much the event had to offer.
A New Venue That Elevated the Experience
The first thing that struck me was the venue itself. Having moved from FIL to CNEMA, the organizers clearly prioritized attendee comfort and experience. The space was impressively large, with multiple interconnected halls that never felt overcrowded despite the massive turnout of 34,500 attendees. What truly set IBERANIME apart was its commitment to showcasing the full spectrum of Japanese culture. While anime and manga were obviously central, the event offered so much more for visitors with varied interests. The Artist Alley was one of my favorite discoveries. Rows of talented local and international artists displayed their work - from stunning anime-style illustrations to unique handmade crafts. I spent considerable time talking with several Portuguese artists about their creative processes.
The Stunning Cosplays That Stole the Show
While I loved immersing myself in Japanese culture at IBERANIME, my main mission was clear, capture the incredible cosplayers bringing their favorite characters to life. And wow, was I blown away! The creativity and dedication on display were unreal. Every corner offered another jaw-dropping cosplay, and the passion behind each one made photographing them an absolute joy. Huge respect to all the talented people who put so much heart into their craft, you made this event unforgettable!
Final Impressions and Recommendations
As someone who attended with moderate expectations, I left IBERANIME thoroughly impressed. The event successfully bridged the gap between hardcore anime fandom and general interest in Japanese culture. The quality of organization, variety of activities, and overall atmosphere made it one of the most enjoyable cultural events I've attended in Portugal. The next edition at Exponor in Porto this October promises to build on this success. Based on my experience, I would strongly recommend IBERANIME to anyone with even a passing interest in Japanese culture. It's rare to find an event of this scale that maintains such high standards across every aspect, from programming to logistics to community engagement.
For those considering attending future editions, I'd suggest planning your visit in advance to make the most of the packed schedule. Arriving early helps avoid crowds at popular exhibits, and checking the event app for scheduling ensures you won't miss your must-see activities. Most importantly, come with an open mind, you might discover new interests you never expected.