By: Jacob Elyachar, jakes-take.com
It is a privilege to welcome Atlanime Fest founder Tolden “Troop” Williams and CMO and Managing Partner Eli Watkins to the Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast.
Atlanime Fest celebrates Black identity and expression through anime. For a generation of Black fans raised on Dragon Ball Z, Naruto, and Atlanta rap, anime was never just something they watched. It shaped how they dress, how they talk, and the music they make. Atlanime Fest puts that culture on the main stage: cosplay next to streetwear, anime openings next to trap beats, and Black artists, animators, and creators telling their own stories. It’s a space built by the community it serves, in the city that has shaped hip-hop for decades.
The festival grew out of Trap Sushi, the Atlanta party that Tolden and Stephanie Williams founded in 2020. The first event drew 25 people. Within three years, Trap Sushi was drawing crowds of around 2,500, made up of Black anime fans, gamers, and creators who hadn’t found a home at traditional conventions. In October 2025, the first Atlanime Fest brought more than 3,500 people to Center Parc Stadium. This year, it became a full weekend.
This year’s Atlanime Fest will run from Thursday, October 15 to Sunday, October 18, and will take place at Monday Night Garage (on Thursday, Friday, and Sunday). Meanwhile, Saturday’s festivities will take place at the Underground Atlanta. Funny Marco and Pudgieee will host the main stage activities and performers such as Slim Jxmmi, Proper Frequency, Troop Brand, and Super-Duper Kyle are expected to take the main stage.
In addition to performances, attendees can see jaw-dropping anime-wrapped cars, JDM classics, and custom rides at the Car Show Showcase. Gamers can compete at Sole Play-presented Gaming Lounge, while attendees can explore Artist Alley and vendor booths. The weekend will conclude on Sunday with a two-hour Celebrity Soccer Game and a massive closing party.
On this episode of The Jake’s Take with Jacob Elyachar Podcast, Troop and Eli shared Atlanime Fest’s origin story, how this festival stands out in the convention circuit, and previewed the Celebrity Soccer Game.
For more information about the 2026 Atlanime Fest, visit their website!
Connect with Atlanime Fest on Instagram!
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