What we’re about
Meet local fans, discuss titles you love, uncover new obsessions, and explore Chicago together! Our nonprofit connects newcomers and veterans 21+ older in friendly spaces to celebrate and examine Japanese media – since 2006.
Join today on Meetup & Discord
✶ 2025 PROGRAMS ✶
- Spotlights – Curated adventure plus networking – Sporadic
- Anime Showcase – Watch hidden gems and chat – Varied Tues
- Anime Discussion – Book club for selected title – 3rd Thu
- Manga Discussion – Book club for selected title – 2nd Sun
- Art Lounge – Jam on your project w/ friendly regulars – Weds
- Anime Sampler – Watch this season together! – 3rd Sat / Qtr
- Meetups – Outings to movies, cons, festivals & more!
✶ BEYOND MEETUP ✶
- Take our quiz to find something new to watch.
- Listen to our podcast Anime’s Game Changers.
- Get quarterly emails on our milestones, local events, anime hits.
- See our Calendar & Guides for more to do around our city.
- Support our 501(c)3 to help educate & connect Chicagoans!
Upcoming events (4+)
See all- Destination Ghibli Series at Music Box TheatreNeeds location
Music Box Theatre is celebrating Studio Ghibli’s 40th anniversary with a week-long film series! View showtimes & Series Pass here.
💬 Mini-Meetups with AnimeChicago
Share your favorite Ghibli moments in the Music Box Lounge! Grab a beverage and spot our name tags to discuss these films and more with us. Schedule TBA.ℹ️ An Introduction with AnimeChicago
Don’t miss our short talk on Miyazaki’s life expressed through his love of flight! More TBA. - Spotlight: Unleash Your Mind – Curating Anime Cinema with FACETSKonbini & Kanpai Wrigleyville, Chicago, IL
7pm Doors / 7:15pm Interview / 8:00pm Social Hour
Join us in celebrating with FACETS Anime Club for Unleash Your Mind, a casual conversation on anime’s growing representation in art house cinema!
“Japanese animation unleashes the mind.” Acclaimed critic Roger Ebert saw depth and quality in anime film, and Western theaters are finally catching up to what we’ve known all along.
Let’s dive into how FACETS curates anime programming for cinephiles, creates an inclusive space for obscure Japanese titles, and entices you to leave your couch for a shared theater experience. And don’t miss their 4th year of “Anime Club Presents” for films like Mind Game, Redline, and Tampopo!
LOGISTICS
- 21+ only. Bring a valid ID and check-in for your badge.
- Open to the public. Arrive promptly to secure a seat and settle in.
- 1 drink minimum. N/A available. No outside food or drinks.
- Start a tab at the front register before enjoying your refreshments.
- CTA recommended! #22, #152, Addison Red. Street parking varies.
- Mask to your comfort. Cancel and message if symptomatic.
- We expel No-Shows and last-minute Dropouts.
