Merchant Hall Applications Are Open Until October 7, 2025
Welcome to the Katsucon Merchants page! It is our goal each year to fill this space with some of the best wares possible! From Japanese Anime figures to plushies and more, we strive for a fun environment that will leave your wallet lighter and your suitcase heavier! Each year we look forward to applications from exhibitors across the country offering unique high quality merchandise for even the most discerning types!
Everything you need to know is outlined in our Exhibitor’s Packet. All exhibitors are expected to read to completion and understand all policy/procedures located there. By applying to Katsucon Merchant’s Hall, you are agreeing to all of the terms/services outlined there and any changes made by Katsucon leadership with or without notice.
Click here for the Exhibitor Packet
Our Application Process
- All exhibitors must submit an application to be considered for Katsucon Merchants Hall
- Review the Exhibitor’s packet here.
- It is exhibitor responsibility to check announcements when applications open/close
- The selection process is through an independent jury team
- Some aspects they look for are professional/unique displays, quality of merchandise, uniqueness of merchandise offered, the fit with the convention environment and more.
- Pictures of booth layouts are REQUIRED to move forward in the application process. Please make sure all websites/links/resources provided are in working order. If you do not have a picture, please create a mockup and submit that, as well as a picture of the merchandise you will be offering. Methods include a public facebook photo album, website, tumblr link, etc. Emailed pictures are not an acceptable method due to high volumes of emails.
- Vendor’s may apply for both artist alley and merchant’s hall if their merchandise fits the rules/standards for each. (Please double check the Exhibitor’s Packet. All non-compliant merchandise will be rejected)
- We welcome all types of exhibitors from veterans to fresh faces. Every application cycle is a clean slate for all exhibitors on an equal field. Please understand that there is a high volume of interest in the Exhibits Hall and we have limited exhibition space. Because of the overwhelming demand, we unfortunately cannot offer a table to everyone who applies. If denied/waitlisted, exhibitors are encouraged to try again and apply again next year.
- After submission, Exhibitors will receive an email informing them if they are accepted/declined or placed on our waitlist. Vendor’s may request to be put on our waitlist (all waitlist must still be juried) Please do not email staff about application status UNLESS an announcement is made that emails have went out and you did not receive one.
- We understand that denial/waitlisting can be frustrating. Please be respectful when emailing staff and understand that decisions are final.
- No Refunds/Roll-Overs
- No late applications will be accepted
Merchants Hall Hours of Operation
Day | Date | Open for Setup | Open for VIPs | Open for Attendees | Close Down |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Thursday | February 13 | 7:00 PM | N/A | N/A | 12:00 AM |
Friday | February 14 | 9:00 AM | 11:30 AM | 12:00 PM – 8:00 PM | 9:00 PM |
Saturday | February 15 | 9:30 AM | 10:00 AM | 10:30 AM – 7:00 PM | 8:00 PM |
Sunday | February 16 | 9:00 AM | 9:30 AM | 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM | 9:00 PM |
Location: Prince George Exhibit Halls A, B, & C
Merchants Hall Pricing
Width | Depth | Badges | Price Per Booth | Included |
---|---|---|---|---|
10ft | 10ft | Two | $500 Due by October 31st $700 for Corner Space $1500 for End Cap | One (1) 6ft x 2.5ft table Two (2) chairs |
Merchants Hall Helpful Hints
(Please read through the Exhibitor’s Packet for complete information)
- Food Sales are not permitted, i.e., sodas, candy, or other edible items.
- Raffles of any kind are prohibited unless all conditions are met as outlined in the exhibitor packet.
- Weapons (except for foam, wood, or prop weapons) may not be sold.
- Fan Art (i.e. Unlicensed Character Rips, Logo Rips, etc.) in the form of Prints, Posters, Buttons, wood burning, glass etching etc. No unlicensed item for which there is a licensed counterpart shall be sold.
- Proxy selling, booth sharing, and AI generated art are prohibited.
- Maryland law prohibits selling or dispensing contact lenses, including decorative lenses, without a valid and unexpired prescription.
- Wi-Fi, electricity, telephone, and shipping/storage services are available for purchase through the Gaylord National Convention Center – https://gaylordnational.boomerecommerce.com/
- READ THE EXHIBITORS PACKET!!! It has complete information!
Merchants Expectations
- All exhibitors are expected to double check their booth space location upon check-check in. Spaces can change up to the day of the con.
- Please give staff time to answer emails and do not spam merchants email. Responses can take up 3-4 business days. If you do not receive a response by this time, you are encouraged to follow up.
- Any exhibitors with approved special requests/accommodations are encouraged to follow up a month before the convention to make sure things are set.
- Exhibitors must be on time and present during all hall operation hours. Vendor’s that no-show, leave early, arrive late, etc. may affect their acceptance into the hall the following year.
- A valid government issued ID, a MD Sales Tax License, and 2 Exhibitor affidavits are required at table check-in. Exhibitors must supply their own affidavits (available in Exhibitor’s Packet) Katsucon cannot assist with or answer tax questions/issues. A tax affidavit must be displayed at all booths vending merchandise, at all times.
- Exhibitors must read through the Exhibitor’s Packet and follow all rules/procedure and maintain proper conduct as well as the rules of the convention and Gaylord Resort Hotel. Harassment/disrespect towards staff/attendees will not be tolerated, this includes but is not limited to verbally or online.
Click here for the Exhibitor Packet
If you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out to the Merchants Team via our email [email protected] for more information. We look forward to seeing you soon!