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 but only knows a little bit about Japanese culture, I was pleasantly surprised by how much the event had to offer. With over 34,500 attendees, this year's edition at CNEMA wasn't just Portugal's biggest anime convention, it was a vibrant, multifaceted celebration of Japanese culture that went far beyond my expectations.

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. What impressed me most was the thoughtful layout, different sections flowed naturally into each other, creating distinct zones for shopping, gaming, performances, and relaxation.

One particularly smart feature was the inclusion of a movie theater within the venue. This provided a perfect escape when I needed a break from the crowds. The spacious food court area, with its mix of Japanese street food and local Portuguese options, was another well-planned element that prevented the long lines I've experienced at similar events.

More than just anime: a cultural deep dive

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. Their passion was infectious, and I appreciated how the event gave these independent creators such prominent visibility.

As someone who's always admired cosplay from afar, I was amazed by the creativity on display. The level of craftsmanship in some costumes was staggering, with intricate armor sets, elaborate wigs, and perfect prop recreations. What struck me most was the inclusive atmosphere; cosplayers happily posed for photos, and groups spontaneously formed for impromptu photoshoots. I found myself chatting with several cosplayers about their costume-making journeys, and their enthusiasm was genuinely inspiring.

The gaming area offered a perfect blend of nostalgia and cutting-edge technology. Classic arcade cabinets stood alongside modern VR setups, while tournament areas hosted intense fighting game matches. Even as a casual gamer, I enjoyed trying some retro Japanese titles I'd never encountered before.

For those interested in traditional culture, there were workshops on calligraphy, origami, and even tea ceremony demonstrations. The fashion section showcased both contemporary streetwear like maide fashion and vintage kimono displays. This diversity meant there was truly something for everyone, regardless of their familiarity with Japanese culture.

Fan engagement and community spirit

What impressed me most about Iberanime wasn't just the programming, but how effectively it fostered a sense of community. Throughout the venue, I noticed fans bonding over shared interests, trading collectibles, discussing favorite series, or simply admiring each other's outfits. The organizers clearly understood their audience, creating numerous photo-op spots and lounge areas where people could connect.

The social media integration was particularly smart. Large screens displayed real-time event hashtags, encouraging attendees to share their experiences. I later learned the event generated over 14 million social media views during the weekend, a testament to how engaged the community was.

Practical excellence

Logistically, the event ran remarkably smoothly. The transportation partnerships with FlixBus, CP, and Bolt made getting to Santarém hassle-free, even for those coming from other cities. Inside the venue, clear signage and helpful staff ensured no one got lost despite the size of the facility.

The vendor area was well-organized, with a good mix of official merchandise and independent sellers. Prices were reasonable compared to similar conventions I've attended, and the variety meant collectors could find both mainstream and niche items. The food options balanced authentic Japanese flavors with local Portuguese preferences, though I'd love to see even more regional Japanese specialties in future editions.

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.

What makes Iberanime special is its ability to welcome everyone, from die-hard otaku to curious first-timers. The careful balance between commercial and community elements creates an environment that feels both professional and personal. While anime remains the core draw, the thoughtful inclusion of traditional arts, gaming, fashion, and performance arts makes it appealing to a much broader audience.

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 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.

My experience at Iberanime 2025 has certainly made me a convert. What could have been just another convention instead became a memorable celebration of creativity, community, and cultural exchange. I'll definitely be back for more.