OffKai Expo returned to the San Jose Convention Center for its fifth edition, bringing together fans and creators for three days dedicated to VTubers. Unlike many large conventions, Offkai feels spacious and has a more relaxed atmosphere. The thoughtfully arranged event spaces made it easy to explore without feeling overwhelmed by crowds.
The day starts off at registration, a separate nearby location that served as a calm introduction to the convention. After picking up their badges, visitors can explore the “Standee Safari,” featuring dozens of life-sized Tuber standees on display. The wide array of character designs reflects the diverse community of creators. This area also hosts an itasha car showcase, where vehicles wrapped in colorful VTuber-themed artwork are on display. Among the highlights was a car dedicated to HIMEHINA, who headlined the event as part of the HIMEHINA WORLD TOUR 2026 “LIFETIME is BUBBLIN.” The performance marked the duo’s first-ever solo concert in the West and one of the stops on their inaugural eight-city world tour.
While panels throughout the weekend gave fans opportunities to hear VTubers discuss their creative process, industry experiences, and everyday conversations, one of the busiest areas was the artist alley and exhibition hall. The area was buzzing with attendees shopping for artwork and merchandise featuring their favorite VTubers while browsing booths from agencies and independent creators alike. Long lines formed for meet-and-greets, and it wasn’t unusual to spot VTubers themselves roaming the convention floor, their digital avatars on screens accompanied by assistants.
Ribbons are a staple of VTuber culture, with attendees attaching the colorful strips beneath their badges and adding to their collection throughout the weekend. The ribbons often feature fan-made jokes, references, or affiliations with favorite VTubers, serving as keepsakes that help foster a sense of community. While it’s not uncommon to see attendees with ribbons extending to their waist, one attendee took the custom to the extreme, collecting so many ribbons that they trailed behind him as he made his way through the convention.
OffKai’s greatest strength is the sense of community it fosters, bringing together fans and creators in a space that blends in-person interaction with the virtual world of VTubing. Whether attendees come for the concerts, artist alley, panels, or simply to spend time together with fellow fans, the convention provided a welcoming environment that continues to grow alongside the community it represents.
