Sangawa | A Small Con With A Big Personality
- Tori Lynn
- Feb 9
- 3 min read
Nestled in the heart of a beautiful DoubleTree hotel in Pittsburgh Pennsylvania, Sangawa proved to be an unforgettable experience that exceeded my already high expectations. From the moment I arrived, the staff’s warmth and hospitality set the tone for the weekend. It was clear that this convention wasn’t just another event—it was a tightly knit, welcoming community that made every attendee feel at home.
This year marked one of the first times the convention expanded across three floors, offering a diverse range of activities for attendees to enjoy. The convenience of having the convention hosted at the DoubleTree was a major bonus, allowing guests to fully immerse themselves in the event while being just steps away from their hotel rooms. Whether you were there to explore, relax, or dive into your fandom, Sangawa made sure there was something for everyone.
Although I was only able to attend on Saturday, my experience was nothing short of incredible. Every corner of the convention was packed with fun and engaging activities. The first floor housed an inviting arcade, where attendees could dive into classic and modern arcade games while mingling with fellow con-goers. It created an exciting, casual atmosphere where both newcomers and returning attendees could connect over their shared love of gaming.
The sellers' room was another highlight, featuring carefully curated vendors showcasing their talents and craftsmanship. From handmade accessories to stunning artwork, each vendor brought something unique to the table, making it easy to spend hours admiring their work (and spending more than a few dollars on must-have finds!).
For those who preferred a slower-paced experience, the tabletop gaming room offered a cozy escape. Tucked away on one of the upper floors, this space was dedicated to all things tabletop, allowing attendees to sit down and play their favorite games with friends or even jump into a new adventure with fellow convention-goers.
One of the most unexpected and delightful experiences was the Cat Room—a unique addition that made Sangawa Con stand out even more. Here, attendees could interact with adorable, adoptable cats from a local shelter, offering a moment of relaxation and joy amid the hustle and bustle of the convention. The best part? If you connected with one of the furry friends, you had the opportunity to adopt them and give them a forever home. It was a beautiful way to combine fandom fun with a heartwarming cause.
A Taste of Japan – A Convention Experience Like No Other
Without a doubt, my favorite part of Sangawa was the exclusive Taste of Japan event. This one-of-a-kind experience was unlike anything I had ever encountered at a convention before. For under $50, attendees received a beautifully crafted souvenir cup that granted them access to an intimate, sake-tasting event.
Inside the tasting room, various tables were set up, each featuring different types of sake to sample. The hosts at each station were incredibly knowledgeable, eager to share insights about the flavors, brewing techniques, and history behind each drink. It wasn’t just a tasting event—it was an educational experience that deepened my appreciation for Japanese culture and craftsmanship.
In addition to the sake, the event also featured delicious Japanese cuisine. One of my personal highlights? The crab cakes. Perfectly crisp and flavorful, they were an absolute treat. The combination of incredible food, expertly curated sake, and the relaxed, immersive atmosphere made Taste of Japan a true standout experience.
A Convention Unlike Any Other
What sets Sangawa apart is its 18+ designation, which creates a completely unique atmosphere compared to other conventions. Without the usual all-ages restrictions, the event fosters a relaxed and engaging environment where attendees can fully enjoy more mature discussions, experiences, and entertainment. The sense of camaraderie among attendees was palpable—everyone was there to have a great time, celebrate their passions, and connect with like-minded individuals in a fun and welcoming space.
As a first-time attendee, I was thoroughly impressed by what Sangawa had to offer. From its well-organized events to its passionate and friendly community, every aspect of the convention was designed to make attendees feel included and engaged. Whether you’re a seasoned convention-goer or a newcomer looking for something different, Sangawa is absolutely worth experiencing for yourself.
With a stellar lineup of events, an inviting atmosphere, and unforgettable experiences like Taste of Japan, this small but mighty convention truly lives up to its reputation. I can’t wait to see how it grows in the coming years—and I highly encourage anyone looking for a unique, intimate convention experience to check it out for themselves.
Are you a past attendee of Sangawa? Share your favorite memories in the comments! And if you're planning to attend next year, be sure to keep an eye on their official announcements for what’s in store.
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