The large-scale cosplay Halloween event “Ikebukuro Halloween Cosplay Fest 2026” (IkeHallo) will be held over three days from October 30 to November 1, 2026, in the Ikebukuro area of Tokyo. For the first time in five years, the event period includes Halloween day itself (October 31). Additionally, cosplayer Enako will attend as a special guest for the first time in seven years.
Event Overview
“IkeHallo”—officially the Ikebukuro Halloween Cosplay Fest—has been held annually since 2014, centered around the Higashiguchi area of Ikebukuro, Toshima Ward. It is one of Japan’s largest Halloween cosplay events. Last year, the three-day event drew 161,000 visitors.
This year, a variety of programs will allow attendees to experience the appeal of cosplay culture. Returning staple events include the “NicoNico Cosplay Collection” on the main stage at Naka-Ikebukuro Park, where participants walk the runway in their best costumes, and “Parent-Child Halloween.” On Ikebukuro’s main street, a temporary pedestrian-priority road will be set up for the “IkeHallo Cosplay Parade,” where approximately 400 cosplayers will march through the city.
Night Event and Full-Day Schedule
On the first day, October 30, a nighttime event called “IkeHallo Night” will be held, allowing participants to enjoy photography against the night scenery. The event will run from 16:30 to 22:30, and participation is limited to those aged 18 and over (high school students not admitted). On October 31 and November 1, the event will be open all day from 10:00 to 18:00.
Special Guest: Enako
On October 31, Enako—a cosplayer active both in Japan and overseas—will attend as a special guest for the first time in seven years. The event’s key visual features Enako cosplaying as Haruhi Suzumiya from Suzumiya Haruhi no Yuuutsu, the character she first cosplayed and considers her “origin.”
Enako
“I’m honored to be part of the key visual for IkeHallo 2026! I hope the poster conveys the excitement and fun of the event. I’ll also be appearing as a special guest on the day, so let’s enjoy it together!”
Takagiwa Miyuki, Mayor of Toshima Ward
“The Ikebukuro Halloween Cosplay Fest enters its 13th year. Last year, despite the rain, over 160,000 people attended. Through this event, I strongly feel the attitude of both cosplay lovers and supporters who see cosplay as a culture, protect it, and aim to develop it further. The participants’ genuine enjoyment and desire for the event to continue are reflected in their good manners, and as mayor, I am very proud. Leveraging partnerships with various companies—possible only because Toshima Ward is a town of manga and anime—we will do our utmost to deliver this celebration of cosplay culture, one of Japan’s representative cultures, to all participants and create a safe and secure environment for everyone to enjoy. I will also be in cosplay, waiting for you!”
Event Details
Ikebukuro Halloween Cosplay Fest 2026 Powered by dwango
Dates & Times:
October 30 (Fri): 16:30–22:30 (IkeHallo Night, 18+ only)
October 31 (Sat) & November 1 (Sun): 10:00–18:00 both days
Venue: Ikebukuro area, Tokyo
Organizers: Ikebukuro Halloween Cosplay Fest Executive Committee (dwango, animate, Hakosta, Sunshine City, Toshima Ward)
Tickets will go on sale from September 4. Further details on programs and additional information will be announced later.
