Why Attend: Manga Library
Read cool manga at the convention. 
Why Attend: Make New Friends
Make new friends at conventions! Anime Conventions
Anime-ZAP!
in Peoria, IL www.animezapcon.comAnime-ZAP! first happened with just three days of planning - it was literally the first 'instant' anime con. Now it's grown to be the largest winter anime event in Illinois.
Anime-SPARK!
February 17-19 in Cedar Rapids, IA www.animespark.orgAnime-SPARK! is a mini-con brought to give local Iowa fans a fun place to gather, cosplay, and meet a couple interesting voice actors.
QC Anime-zing!
June 1-3, 2012 in Davenport, IA www.qcanimezing.comAnime-zing! is the first anime convention brought to the Quad Cities region, and its focus on building a fun local community is unmatched.
AniMinneapolis
June 29 - July 1, 2012 in Minneapolis, MN www.animinneapolis.comAniMinneapolis is an annual anime convention happening in Minneapolis, which brought together over 1200 fans in the first year.
Anime Midwest
July 6-8, 2012 in Lisle, IL www.animemidwest.comAnime Midwest is famous for having the most amazing guests to ever come to the same con, and this year it moves closer to the heart of Chicago.
Meta Con
August 31 - September 2, 2012 in Minneapolis, MN www.metaconvention.comMeta Con is a general geek and nerd-life convention happening in Minneapolis in 2012.