Katsucon 2027 – Fan Panel and Workshop Application Process 

Overview 

Please make sure to review the information for Panelist Registration before submitting an application to make sure you understand the process for getting a badge to the convention if you are applying to run a fan panel or workshop.   

Application Deadlines: 

• Applications close on September 15, 2026 at 11:59 PM  

• Estimated completion date for notifications: December 15, 2026.  

Please be aware that the panel application review processes will take several weeks after the deadline.  All applicants will receive a response on or before the December 1^st notification date. 
 

READ FIRST BEFORE APPLYING  

The following rules apply to the panel event application process: 

• The Applicant who submits the application is considered the Lead Panelist.  The Lead Panelist will be the sole point of contact for the panel. 

• A valid email address is required for the Lead Panelist.   

• The application must be completed in full, including the legal first and last name of each panelist. A maximum of two (2) panelists may be listed per panel application. Individuals not listed on the application may not be eligible to receive a Panelist Badge. 

• Preparation is key. Complete the request form accurately and ensure your topic is relevant. Your descriptions should match your panel’s title and content and demonstrate thoughtfulness towards your presentation. 

• An automated email confirmation should occur immediately after submission of the application. If you do not receive an email confirmation, then there is an issue with your application. Please contact us directly to confirm the application has been received.  

Katsucon 2027 Theme: Mystical Forest 

Each year, Katsucon features a unique convention theme, and for Katsucon 2027, our theme is Mystical Forest. 

We welcome a wide variety of anime, manga, gaming, Japanese culture, cosplay, and fandom-related programming. However, we are especially interested in panel and workshop concepts that connect to this year’s theme. Whether your idea explores magical forests in anime, woodland spirits and folklore, fantasy creatures, nature-inspired worldbuilding, environmental themes, legendary quests through enchanted lands, or any other creative interpretation of a mystical forest, we would love to see your submission. 

You do not need to match the theme to be accepted, but theme-related programming is highly encouraged and can help create a more cohesive and engaging convention experience for our attendees. 

Submit your Panel here: 

https://forms.cloud.microsoft/r/Mr15NXCYbP  

This form will close on September 15, 2026 at 11:59 PM 

Questions? Contact the Programming Division if you have any questions by emailing us at: [email protected] 

Information for the Panel Application Process 

• Panel Application Review Process 

• Once panel submissions close, it will take several weeks to review applications and send Accepted, Waitlisted, and Not Accepted notifications. 

• Every effort will be made to schedule panels as close to the requested time as possible.  
   

• Panel Statuses 

• Accepted:  The panel will be included on the convention schedule, and you qualify to receive a panelist badge. 

• Not Accepted:  The panel was not accepted and will not be included in the convention.  Due to space, scheduling, and programming constraints, we are unable to accommodate every application we receive. 

• Waitlisted:  The panel is currently on the waitlist. This means we are interested in hosting the panel at the convention but are unable to include it in the scheduled at this time. If an accepted panel is canceled or additional scheduling space becomes available, waitlisted panels may be offered a spot in the schedule.  

• The deadline to request a REFUND for your regular attendee badge is January 3, 2027.  Registrations purchased after January 3rd, 2027, are NONREFUNDABLE. 
    

If you are accepted for a panel and need to request a refund for a regular attendee badge it is your responsibility to request the refund before the deadline. 

General Rules for Panels 

Changes in dates and times for scheduled panels 
Dates and times are subject to change up until the convention.  If a panel is accepted, the department selecting the panel may provide a tentative date and time, however we strongly suggest looking at the schedule in Guidebook once it goes live. 
 
Changes to named individuals presenting a panel 
Names are tied to registration, any changes in the name for panelists must be approved by the Programming Division.  In the event any changes occur after submitting the panel contact us directly.   

 Panelist Badges
If your panel is accepted, then you will qualify to receive a Panelist Badge for free.  There is a maximum of two (2) panelists for each panel that qualify to receive a Panelist Badge.  This is to the Lead Panelist and one (1) other presenter.