About Us
The Region’s Premier Anime, Gaming, Music, Fashion and Japanese Pop Culture Convention!
About Tekko
Tekko (formerly Tekkoshocon) is an annual Japanese Pop Culture convention, currently in its 16th year, held at the David L. Lawrence Convention Center in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. Tekko is presented by a 501(c)3 non-profit organization, the Pittsburgh Japanese Culture Society (PittJCS).
The original name,Tekkoshocon, was a blend of the Japanese colloquialism tekkosho, meaning steel mill (a reference to Pittsburgh’s industrial steel-producing history), and adapting the suffix “-con” (from convention).
Tekko 2015 Highlights
Increased attendance to over 6,000+ unique attendees, guests, vendors, artists and staff from all across the country, an 18% gain over the previous year
The Tekko Gakkou School Series provided education oriented programming and learning tracks dedicated to exploring the nuanced culture and history of Japan
Supported several local non-profit organizations to increase awareness and collect donations during the event
Provided an overall economic impact to the greater Pittsburgh metropolitan area of over $3.7 million in terms of hotels, restaurants, local transportation, shopping, taxes, etc. over the four-day period
Tekko 2016 Highlights
Increased attendance to over 8,000 unique attendees, guests, vendors, artists and staff from all across the country, equaling a 30% gain over the previous year.
Provided an overall economic impact to the greater Pittsburgh metropolitan area of over 4.5 million in terms of hotels, restaurants, local transportation, shopping, taxes, etc. over a four day period.
Supported several local non-profit organizations to increase awareness and collect donations during the event.
Hours of Operation
| Thursday | TBD |
| Friday | TBD |
| Saturday | TBD |
| Sunday | TBD |
Location
Located in beautiful downtown Pittsburgh, the David L. Lawrence Convention Center offers Tekko attendees the best of both worlds, by showcasing spectacular views of the city on the roof or numerous balconies perfect for cosplay photo-shoots and gorgeous indoor spaces that are host to all scheduled programming such as panels, vendors/artist alley and main events.
Looking to branch out into the city? Look no further! The area around the Convention Center, within a 15-minute walk, is home to:
- Over 90 restaurants!
- Numerous Museums!
- Point State Park!
- Station Square!
- Local Events!
- And Much, Much More…
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the attendance of Tekko?
Tekko has been experiencing attendance growth in the last few years. In 2016, the final warm body count was 7698 people. We are expecting to reach between 9000 and 10000 people in 2017.
Is there an age requirement to attend Tekko?
Tekko is a family-friendly event. Most events are open to all ages, although we do have late night content for 18+ that is clearly designated. Attendees must show an ID to attend any 18+ content.
What do I need to pick up my badge?
Please bring a copy of your printed confirmation email in order to pick up your pre-registered badge. We also suggest a form of identification in order to speed up the registration process.
Do kids have to pay full price?
No, children age 6 and under are free. Children ages 7-12 are $25 for the weekend. However, they must be accompanied by a paying adult.
Can I leave my kids at Tekko for the weekend?
All children 12 and under must be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
How can I report harassment that occurs at Tekko?
Tekko and PittJCS take harassment allegations very seriously. Only the person who experienced the harassment can report it. If you are harassed, tell a security staff member immediately. If you are not comfortable talking to security directly, you may also contact our designated Harassment Response Officer at 866-767-9708 ext. 1. or viahro@pittjcs.org
More information about our harassment policy can be found here.
I’m from out of town. Where can I stay during Tekko?
Tekko and PittJCS have room blocks at several downtown hotels. Please scroll down for more information about nightly rates and locations.
Is there a shuttle bus to the hotel?
Yes, there is a shuttle bus to the DoubleTree hotel that runs every half-hour.
I’m driving in for Tekko. Where can I park?
While the David L. Lawrence Convention Center has on-site parking, we recommend checking the City of Pittsburgh’s Parking Authority page for the best available parking rates near the convention center.
Sponsors & Partners
