If you’ve ever gotten the chance to go to an anime convention, you would stumble upon a nerd paradise! You would be surrounded by otaku who are just as passionate about anime and manga as you are. You would get the chance to meet the voice actors behind your favorite characters from your favorite shows. Best of all, you would get the chance to see cosplayers that cosplay your favorite characters from your favorite shows. All of that is an awesome sight to see at a con, but when nightfall arrives the real fun of going to an anime convention, is the rave!

From the mid 2000’s to present day, rave parties have been incorporated in mid-size and large anime conventions all across North America (and some in other countries). During the late 90’s rave parties were held in underground establishments (most of which were illegal) where drug usage was eminent. Thank goodness we don’t have to worry about anybody molling out during a con rave. (Drugs are bad kids, don’t do them!)

When it comes to rave parties at cons, you’re bound to run into one of the seven types of dancers found at these in-house discotheques. So without further delay, here they are!

Dancer #1: The Guy with the Finger Lights!

This dancer can be found at rave parties for both mid-size and large anime conventions (Otakon, Anime Expo, etc.) It doesn’t matter what the DJ is spinning during the rave, you’ll always find this guy somewhere in the room putting on his own lil’ techno light show.

Dancer #2: The Breakdancer/Pop-Locker!

Yes, we have had the pleasure of meeting a few otaku with some sick break-dancing moves. You’ll find these guys in the ‘rave circle’ showing off while getting chants from the crowd all around.

Dancer #3: A Dancing Pikachu!

Or as we would call him, a “Ravachu”! This wild pokemon won’t be spotted at every anime convention rave, but depending on which con(s) you go to, you’ll be treated to the sight of the dancing Pikachu. Just make sure you’ve got a big enough pokeball to catch him.

Dancer #4: The Shuffler!

If a Progressive House or Future House track comes on, be prepared to see these guys and gals in action on the dance floor. They’re really fun to watch might we add.

Dancer #5: That One Girl who likes to Twerk and Grind!

No judgement here! If you wanna “Drop it like its Hot”, then go for it! You’ll probably find at least two or three of these girls at a rave, and if you don’t…then it’s probably you or one of your friends. (Again, no judgement.)

Dancer #6: The One that starts The Conga Line!

Okay, this individual is not really a rave dancer, they’re just the ones who try to start a conga line while at the rave. They’re actually pretty fun once you’re in them.

Dancer #7: The Rave Virgin!

I think somewhere along the line we’ve all been this particular dancer. It’s your first anime convention rave and you’re not sure what to expect once you arrive. The best advice we can give you in this situation, is to just be yourself and have fun! Sure you may run into dancers 1-6 while at your first con rave (if your not already one of the six yourself), but being yourself is the best dancer that you can ever be!

So when you head out to an anime convention and find yourself going to the con’s rave party, it doesn’t matter what type of dancer you are, as long as you have a good time and rave on! 🙂