SNAFU Con
Sierra Nevada Anime Fans Unite!
SNAFU Con is an anime convention in the Reno/Sparks area of Nevada. The 2025 con was October 31 - November 2, 2025. The 2026 con has not been announced yet.
Quicklinks:
Programming
Panels
No, not solar, or insulating, or the ones you put lots of buttons on in your evil lab, but informational and entertaining panels on the subjects of....well, everything really. We will answer such great questions as "What qualifies as old-school?" "Why do my villains fail?" and "How much for that Nabeshin necktie?"
Most of our panels are provided by fan volunteers. If you are interested in running a panel, more information is available on our Panelist Info.
2025 Panels List
| Anime Trivia Battle! | Think you know everything about anime? Compete against everyone in the room for first place! Let everyone know YOU are the biggest anime nerd in town. Prizes will be given out for the top 3 winners! | |
| Fandom on Display: A Guide to Itabags | Put your love on display–literally! Join us for a wondrous dive into the world of itabags, where fandom meets fashion. We'll cover what they are, how to start one, and tips to make your bag as coveted as your favorite character or anime. Whether you're a seasoned collector or just curious, come get inspired by ways to showcase charms, badges, plushies, and more! | |
| The Old Gent: History of Talyllyn | Come join us as we talk about one of the oldest narrow gauge steam locomotives still operating to this day. | |
| Artists vs Bob Ross | Volunteer artists must follow along with Bob Ross using their preferred medium. Whoever gets the closest wins. | |
| Photography 101 | Learn to shoot like a pro... or at least learn the same theories and techniques they use. Whether you shoot on a full-frame DSLR or an iPhone, these concepts apply universally! | |
| Gaming: Is Your Opponent's Fun Your Responsibility? | Games are about shared fun—but how much of that is your responsibility? This open audience forum looks at gaming etiquette: hosting vs. attending, casual vs. competitive, online vs. offline. Join the conversation, swap stories, and help define what respectful, fun gaming culture looks like. | |
| Abridging a Panel | Join Arron (YaroShien) as he shows you the world of Abridging, explains the process of making an episode, shows off a few parodies, and takes your questions about making online video productions. | |
| Call of Cthulhu Adventure with author Jade Griffin | Choose your own Cthulhu adventure! Join author Jade Griffin in a one-of-a-kind game! No experience or dice needed! A Lone Collection (Call of Cthulhu, Gaslight): After thwarting a theft on the streets of 1890s Chicago, an old gentleman offers you a job of guarding his strange artifacts while he is away. As a guard, your choices lead to mystery, mythos, magic, and even death while guarding... A Lone Collection. | |
| Otaku Solidarity: Where Every Story Belongs | Anime has always been more than entertainment — it’s a refuge, a rallying cry, and a mirror for those who feel unseen. This panel dives into the emotional power of fandom as a space for mental wellness, identity exploration, and radical inclusion. Whether you’re a lifelong otaku or just discovering your first comfort character, we’ll explore how anime communities foster connection across difference and offer solidarity in the face of isolation. | |
| Wearing Your Truth: Cosplay & Community | Cosplay is more than dress-up — it’s identity, healing, and connection. This panel explores how cosplay empowers mental wellness, self-expression, and inclusive community. Join us to celebrate the courage of showing up as your full self — and learn how We Are The Others turns fandom into purpose. | |
| Improv 201 - Workshop | Want to try out Improv on the stage? Now's your chance. Play some games, get some coaching, and have some fun. | |
| Improv 101 - Workshop | Fully Unscripted presents everything you need to know to get started in improvisational acting. These skills work for long-form, short-form, scripted acting, and even regular life. Think you're not funny? No problem! Ask questions, play games, and have fun. | |
| Make That Anime | Win prizes for improvising a brand new anime based on some randomly generated traits and titles. | |
| Let's Chat | Your MC's hanging out and chatting. Feel free to listen in and suggest topics. | |
| Bomb Disposal 101 | Watch and participate as the Main Stage crew struggles to defuse video game bombs. | |
| Advice Panel | We have a very special treat: three experts who are ready to answer all of your questions about literally anything! We know one is definitely good, the second is questionable, and don't even ask about the third one. | |
| Ocean Trivia | What is a fish? Let's find out. Can you name that fish? | |
| Hentai Redub Live! | Join the bravest of our voice actor guests as they live-dub a hentai they’ve never seen before! | |
| Hentai: Insert Panel | Experience the hilarity as our panelists heckle and dissect a hentai for your viewing pleasure. | |
| Science Stories | Come hang out with our MCs and hear some funny, interesting, or weird stories about all things scientific. | |
| Lecture Under the Sea | We are experts on whatever topic you throw at us. We even made a slide show presentation before hand. | |
| Voice Actor Q&A | Get ready to dive behind the scenes with your favorite voice actors! This Q&A panel is your chance to hear incredible stories, insider secrets, and ask the burning questions you've always wanted answered. | |
| Jellyfish Felonies | Join our Main Stage crew for a one-shot game of David J Prokopetz's micro-RPG Jellyfish Felonies. Take advantage of your unassuming appearance and the hidden wisdom of the depths to lie, cheat, swindle, defraud, embezzle, and prove that you don't need a brain to be a criminal mastermind! | |
| Jackbox | A battle of wits and likes against the the Main Stage crew during these party games. | |
| Ocean Gaming | End the night with the Main Stage Crew trying to survive as they go deeper! | |
| Power Hour | Can our Main Stage crew live code a Family Feud style game in the hour before they actually have to run it? Let's find out! | |
| Anime Feud | Win some prizes with your friends as you answer questions based on the survey results at con! | |
| SNAFU Con Feedback Session | Tell us what you liked, didn't like, and what we should do next year. | |
| Polyamory & Ethical Nonmonogamy 101 | Curious about polyamory and ethical nonmonogamy? Join us for a relaxed and open discussion hosted by our polycule. We'll share our personal experiences, insights, and some handy handouts to help guide the conversation. Whether you're new to the idea or just want to chat, come and learn with us in this welcoming environment. All questions and curiosities are welcome! | |
| Safe and Consensual Dynamics | Join us for an open Q&A session, hosted by two seasoned practitioners with extensive experience in the lifestyle. Whether you're curious about or actively involved in BDSM, join us for an informative and respectful discussion. Ask your burning questions and receive practical advice with a focus on safety, consent, boundaries, and effective communication. | |
| Voice Acting 101 - Setting Up Your Home Studio | Join Voice Actor Christopher Escalante as he walks you through the basics of setting up your home studio and answers your questions about voice acting, equipment requirements, and tips for success. Don't miss the chance to hear from this amazingly successful voice actor! | |
| "FANTASTIC" Fan Fiction | Come on out and get silly with renowned voice actor Christopher Escalante and others as they read and act out hilarious and ridiculous fan fiction stories. Audience participation encouraged, so everyone can have a fun and silly time! All ages welcome! | |
| "FANTASTIC" Fan Fiction After Dark | Come on out and get silly with renowned voice actor Christopher Escalante and others as they read and act out hilarious and ridiculous fan fiction stories. Audience participation encouraged, so everyone can have a fun and silly time! These stories will be adult-themed, so you must be 18 or older to join in on the grown-up hilarity! | |
| It’s-a Me, Chaos! A Mario Party Live Play | Grab your coins and hold onto your friendships! Watch fan-favorite voice actor Christopher Escalante and his partners (Hollarity and IceColeBrew) throw down in a Mario Party showdown full of laughter, sabotage, and over-the-top reactions. Expect wild mini-games, ridiculous commentary, and zero mercy. | |
| Help! I Wrote a Book—Now What?! | You’ve finished your manuscript—congrats! Now comes the hard part: what do you do with it? Whether you’re looking to publish traditionally, self-publish, or just figure out editing and marketing, Gavin Black has been there and has knowledge to share! Join Gavin as he shares insider tips, practical advice, and a few “what not to do” lessons from the real publishing world. | |
| World Building 101: Writing and Illustration | From magical realms to futuristic cities, great stories start with great worlds. Learn how to build immersive settings that feel alive—and how to visualize them through both the written word and visual mediums. Join Gavin Black and Jade Griffin as they explore the creative process of shaping your own universe, whether you’re a writer, artist, or both. | |
| Short Story Showdown: Write it, Win It! | Think you can craft a complete story in record time? Join published author Gavin Black for a fun, hands-on writing workshop where you’ll learn how to build characters, set the scene, and craft satisfying stories—all in short form! Then, put your skills to the test in a friendly short story contest. Prizes, bragging rights, and creativity await! | |
| Angel Rose Music Video Launch Party | Angel Rose's latest music video launches on Halloween! Be among the first people to see it, plus you'll get to meet her and some of the cast of the video. They'll be hosting a Q&A session after the video premieres. Hear stories from production, the inspiration behind the project, and get some insight into the process of making a music video. It's sure to be a fun time! | |
| Entertainment Industry Q&A with Angel Rose | Ever wondered what it’s really like to chase your creative dreams? Join Angel Rose for a candid and inspiring talk about breaking into the entertainment scene. Learn from her real-life experiences in music and performance, and get practical advice for building your confidence, finding opportunities, and staying motivated. | |
| Act Like You Mean It | Step into the spotlight! In this hands-on workshop, Angel Rose guides you through acting techniques that bring characters to life—whether for videos, theater, or live performance. Build confidence, explore emotional range, and learn how to make every line shine. | |
| So, You Think You Know Disney? | From Mickey to Moana, put your Disney knowledge to the test in this fast-paced trivia showdown! Hosted by local artist Angel Rose, this magical quiz hour is full of laughs, prizes, and nostalgia. Whether you’re a casual fan or a Disney encyclopedia, this one’s for you! | |
| Sing it Out! | Want to get more comfortable using your voice? In this friendly, hands-on workshop, Angel Rose shares simple techniques to help you sing with confidence. Learn how to warm up properly, find your range, and build habits that keep your voice strong and healthy. All levels welcome! | |
| Character Crafting with Angel Rose | Ever wonder what makes a character feel real? Learn how to craft compelling personalities with depth, purpose, and heart. Angel Rose walks you through techniques for exploring motivation, conflict, and growth so your characters connect with audiences and leave a lasting impression. | |
| Let’s Build a Story Together! | Ever wonder what makes a story work? Join author Spencer Stoner for an interactive storytelling adventure where the audience helps build a tale from the ground up! Explore characters, plot twists, and world-building as you craft a brand-new story live. Perfect for writers, fans, and anyone who loves the magic of imagination. | |
| Faking It While Making It | How do you survive ten years as a creator? By faking it ’til you make it—literally! Join author Spencer Stoner for a fun, fast-paced celebration of a decade of Spencer Stoner's amazing success! This panel will feature readings, behind-the-scenes stories, and trailers from projects like Captain Fearless and the Time Traveling Nazis of Doom and Carol’s Christmas Carole. Come celebrate creativity, chaos, and persistence! | |
| It Gets Better | Life can be challenging, but no one has to face it alone. Join this uplifting and welcoming conversation about affirmation, coping, and community—centered on LGBTQIA+ experiences but open to everyone. Whether you’re here to listen, share, or support, this panel offers a safe, positive space to remind us all that it really does get better. | |
| Masque of the Red Death - Act I Screening & Q&A | From ElfQuest creator Wendy Pini and Ascendent Animation comes a bold new musical thriller! Join us for an exclusive 90-minute session featuring a screening of Masque of the Red Death: Act I followed by a 30-minute Q&A discussion. | |
| Convention Horror Stories: Tales From Cons Past | What happens at con stays at con? Nonsense! Some stories are too good not to tell. Come hear the funniest, strangest, and most unbelievable tales from conventions past—cosplay disasters, hotel mishaps, and all. Laugh along, wince in sympathy, and maybe confess a story or two yourself! | |
| Wark After Dark! | Get ready for an uncensored, no-holds-barred AMA with the amazingly adventured Steve "Warky" Nunez! From wild convention stories to behind-the-scenes chaos, nothing’s off-limits (well… almost nothing). This 18+ session promises laughs, candid moments, and maybe a few things you’ll wish you could unhear. | |
| Get to Know Ascendent Animation | Ever wondered what it takes to bring anime to life in English? Join staff from Ascendent Animation for an inside look at the dubbing process, with behind-the-scenes stories, tips, and insights from the people who make the magic happen. Perfect for fans curious about voice acting, localization, and all the work that goes into creating a seamless dub. | |
| Behind the Scenes of Anime Production | Ever wonder how your favorite anime goes from page to screen? Get an inside look at all the hidden work that makes it happen—translation tweaks, dubbing prep, quality checks, and more. This panel reveals the behind-the-scenes magic and chaos that bring each episode to life, with plenty of fan-friendly stories along the way. | |
| Luminescent~Inspire Dance Team Q&A | Come meet/talk to the Luminescent~Inspire Dance Team! They will be there to talk about their company and their history and answer all of your questions about them and about K-Pop and J-Pop dance! | |
| Writer's Workshop | If you are a aspiring writer or an author looking for tips, come join this Q&A hosted by experienced authors. Attendees will learn tips, tricks, and gain valuable insight into the craft of writing. | |
| Anime Dubbing Basics | Ever wonder how Japanese anime becomes the English dialogue you hear on screen? This panel dives into the process of adapting episode translations into dubbing scripts, balancing lip sync, timing, and character personality. Fans will get a behind-the-scenes look at the tricks and challenges that make dubbed anime feel natural and fun. | |
| Translating Japanese Novels | Translating Japanese novels, light novels, and visual novels is a unique challenge compared to anime or games. This session explores the creative problem-solving and careful choices required to bring characters, tone, and story to life in English. Fans will get an inside perspective on how prose media makes the jump across languages while keeping its heart intact. | |
| Inside Localization | Go behind the curtain of the Japanese localization industry to see how anime, manga, games, and other media make it from Japan to global audiences. This panel explores the processes, challenges, and creative decisions involved in translating and adapting stories, with plenty of behind-the-scenes insights that fans of any level will enjoy. | |
| Make Your Own Comic Workshop | Ever wanted to tell your own story in comic or manga form? In this hands-on workshop, local comic book creator Steven Yu will show you! Attendees will learn the basics of creating a graphic novel or manga—from planning panels and pacing a story to illustrating characters and dialogue. By the end, participants will have their own short comic to take home, whether it’s a single page or a mini-story! | |
| Character Design with Steven Yu | Bring your characters to life! In this interactive workshop, Steven Yu (of S.Y.D. Studio) guides attendees through the fundamentals of character design. Attendees will learn about visual style, personality, and storytelling through art. Participants will then create a one-panel or one-page comic featuring their original character, combining creativity and storytelling in a fun, hands-on session. | |
| Is ADHD Really a Superpower? | Is ADHD a superpower? Some people sure seem to think so. Others think it's a curse. Come learn some of the science behind ADHD and how to work WITH your brain instead of against it. | |
| Getting Started with Digital Art | Curious about diving into digital art but not sure where to begin? Join the UNR Digital Art Club as they walk you through different digital art programs—from free apps to pro tools. They will also be sharing tips on choosing what’s right for you. Learn basic art concepts, explore creative techniques, and pick up practical advice for building your skills whether you’re brand-new or switching from traditional art. | |
| How to Draw Chibis | Big eyes, tiny bodies, maximum cuteness! Learn the basics of drawing chibi characters in this fun, hands-on workshop, given by members of the UNR Digital Art Club. Attendees will be provided paper and pencils and guided step-by-step through sketching and shaping their own adorable creations. Perfect for beginners and anyone who loves cute art! | |
| Anime Heroes on the Spectrum | From quirky geniuses to socially awkward saviors, why do so many anime protagonists feel a little… neurospicy? Join Laura K Welsh for an insightful look at how neurodivergent traits show up in anime heroes—and why so many fans find comfort and connection in them. A thoughtful, affirming discussion for anyone who’s ever seen a bit of themselves in their favorite main character. | |
| Being a Supportive Fan in the Age of AI | As AI tools become more common in art, music, and voice work, how can fans show real support for the human creators they love? Laura K Welsh leads a thoughtful conversation about respecting artists, navigating changing technologies, and keeping fandom communities positive, ethical, and people-centered in the digital age. | |
| Sonic: An Unfortunate History | Sonic the Hedgehog is a staple holding together the childhood of any proper 90s kid, but just like Soap shoes he's tragically out of fashion. We'll be going over the history of Sonic The Hedgehog games, Sega Consoles, and, reluctantly, the fandom around them both as we figure out what happened to a once promising video game mascot. | |
| Super Mario Bros Super Panel | Mario games have been a pinnacle of consistency for the video game industry. Mario media adaptations have been the same thing, but in the opposite direction. Let’s delve into old Mario media, from the live action movie to the Super Show, and decide once and for all which spaghetti is the most overcooked. | |
| Console Wars | Thanks to video games we all know exactly how to disappoint our parents and avoid interpersonal contact. But what do you know about the history of video games? From the Magnavox Odyssey to the Nintendo Switch 2, we’ll be going over the history of video game consoles and the various companies that saw success and failure in the industry. | |
| Fifth Gen Isn't Pokemon | Generation five of pokemon introduced a lot of new concepts to the series like ripping off their previous aesthetic designs, min-maxing stats to optimize the removal of actual pokemon from competitive play, and whatever Garbador is. When it comes down to it the abominations that were introduced in Pokemon Black and White are nowhere near as majestic as classic pokemon like Muk, Mr. Mime, and Electrode. | |
| Harems: A Fair and Balanced Analysis | Anime always promotes unrealistic expectations in our lives: randomly getting super powers, giant mech battles, having friends. The biggest let down from anime is of course the promise of harem anime: that not only could one girl be interested in you, but five could. We’re here to dispel the myth that girls could be interested in you, and why you wouldn’t want any of these 2D waifus in your life anyway. | |