The highly anticipated Polymanga festival kicks off today, April 18, 2025, marking its 20th anniversary at the Palais de Beaulieu in Lausanne. This year’s event promises to be bigger and better than ever, spanning over 25,000 square meters and featuring an impressive lineup of activities and guests.
For four days, attendees can immerse themselves in the vibrant world of pop culture, with more than 30 guests from various fields, including animation, cinema, manga, and video games. The festival is expected to draw in over 50,000 visitors, continuing its trend of record attendance established in recent years.
Among the highlights of this year’s Polymanga are live performances by notable artists such as the K-pop group Big Ocean and Japanese singer Hironobu Kageyama, known for his iconic work on the "Dragon Ball Z" soundtrack. Big Ocean, composed of Hyunjin, Jiseok, and Chanyeon, will take the stage on Saturday and Sunday, bringing their energetic message of inclusivity and hope. Kageyama will perform on both days as well, showcasing his legendary status in the anime music scene.
In addition to these headliners, other musical acts include South Korean singer Kisu, who will perform on Saturday, and various J-pop artists such as Upiko, Cookie San & Yukka, and the group Starrysky. The festival will also feature a Village of Artists, showcasing original works from over 115 illustrators, allowing fans to appreciate and purchase unique art.
Cosplay remains a central element of Polymanga, with six contests scheduled throughout the weekend. Participants will showcase their creative costumes, embodying characters from beloved franchises, adding to the festival's lively atmosphere.
The event also emphasizes sustainability, as it continues its initiative to reduce waste by providing reusable water bottles to attendees. Those who use the bottles will enjoy discounted drink prices, encouraging a shift toward more eco-friendly habits.
David Heim, the founder and director of Polymanga, shared insights about the festival's evolution over the past two decades. He noted that while the event initially focused heavily on Japanese pop culture, it has expanded to embrace a broader spectrum of global pop culture, including American TV series and Korean music. “We try to listen to global pop culture,” Heim explained, highlighting the festival's commitment to inclusivity and diversity.
The festival's demographic has also shifted dramatically since its inception, with nearly equal representation of male and female attendees today. Heim remarked, “The public was 70% male at the beginning, but today parity is almost achieved.” He added that about 25% of attendees are under 18 years old, making Polymanga a welcoming space for younger fans.
As the festival unfolds, attendees can look forward to engaging conversations, panels, and meet-and-greet opportunities with their favorite creators and performers. The presence of voice actors Philippe Peythieu and Véronique Augereau, known for their roles as Homer and Marge Simpson, adds an extra layer of excitement for fans of animated series.
In addition to Polymanga, the weekend offers a variety of activities across Lausanne, including gourmet cruises on Lake Geneva and an innovative Easter egg hunt on ice at the Vaudoise aréna. These events cater to families and individuals looking to celebrate the holiday in unique ways.
As Polymanga celebrates its 20th anniversary, it stands as a testament to the enduring popularity of pop culture and the community that surrounds it. With an exciting program and a commitment to inclusivity and sustainability, this year’s festival is poised to be a memorable celebration for fans of all ages.
For more information on Polymanga 2025, including ticket details and the full schedule of events, visit the official website at www.polymanga.com.
