What this is
This is an official animate store fair celebrating the TV anime 'Ace of Diamond actⅡ -Second Season-', running across multiple animate locations throughout Japan from August 1 to August 23, 2026. Ace of Diamond (Daiya no Ace) is a beloved baseball-themed manga and anime series following pitcher Eijun Sawamura's journey at the elite Seidou High School baseball team. The fair is themed around the Seidou team's championship ambitions, tying into the second season's narrative arc. Fans can collect exclusive bromide photo cards featuring six different designs by making qualifying purchases of anime merchandise at participating stores.
Who should go
This fair is ideal for fans of the Ace of Diamond anime and manga series, as well as collectors of anime merchandise and bromide cards. Sports anime enthusiasts and those who enjoy the high school baseball genre will find plenty to appreciate. The atmosphere at animate fairs is typically enthusiastic and community-driven, with fellow fans browsing and collecting together. To maximise your bromide pulls, plan your purchases in advance and aim to spend in ¥1,100 increments to get the most cards from the six available designs.
Good to know
Animate stores accept both cash and major credit cards, though foreign cards are generally accepted at most branches. The animate Online Shop is a convenient alternative for visitors who cannot reach a physical store, and it ships internationally in some cases — check the site for current shipping options. Bromide designs are distributed randomly, so there is no guarantee of receiving a specific design; buying in multiples increases your chances of completing the set. The Ikebukuro Main Store is animate's flagship location and typically has the widest stock, making it the best first stop for serious collectors. Arrive early in the fair period rather than the final weekend to avoid sellouts on popular merchandise.
This event was sourced and translated from Japanese by What's On Japan. Details may change — verify with the official source before attending.