Arts Derbyshire

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Otaku Link 15

Event details

Otaku Link is back — and bigger than ever! One of the UK Midlands’ most loved community-driven anime events proudly returns for its 15th milestone event on 1st March 2026, hosted at the historic Old Bell Hotel, Derby.

Created by fans, for fans, Otaku Link continues its mission to bring the local otaku community together for a full day of anime-inspired fun, creativity, and connection. Whether you’re a long-time attendee or discovering Otaku Link for the first time, this event promises something special for everyone.


🎌 What to Expect on the Day

Get ready for a packed schedule of activities celebrating anime, gaming, art and fandom culture:

  • ☕ Maid Café – Enjoy themed service and charming interactions in a cosy café atmosphere

  • 🛍 Anime Auction – Bid on unique collectibles and fandom treasures

  • 🎲 Learn D&D – Beginner-friendly tabletop sessions for aspiring adventurers

  • 🧠 Anime Quizzes – Test your knowledge and win bragging rights

  • ✍ Manga Drawing Competition – Show off your artistic skills for prizes

  • 🎤 Talent Spot – A stage for community performers and creators

  • 👗 Cosplay Parade – Celebrate creativity and craftsmanship on stage


🎶 Live Performances – Music, Energy & Fandom Talent

Otaku Link 15 features its most exciting performance lineup yet, blending anime music, idol culture, Vocaloid inspiration, and community talent.

★ DJ Manimal – The High-Energy Anime Powerhouse

A cornerstone of the UK anime music scene, DJ Manimal returns with his signature high-octane anison sets. Expect explosive mixes of anime OP/EDs, J-pop, gaming soundtracks and crowd-pumping remixes that transform the main hall into a festival-style dance floor.

DJ Manimal will also headline the 18+ After Party, keeping the energy going late into the night.

★ Uni Stars – Idol Magic Comes to Derby

Bringing sparkle, positivity and polished choreography, Uni Stars light up the Otaku Link stage with uplifting idol pop and infectious energy. Their colourful, feel-good performance is guaranteed to be one of the event’s highlights.

★ Cerisina – A Captivating Vocaloid Experience

Vocaloid fans won’t want to miss Cerisina’s Hatsune Miku–inspired performance, delivering vibrant visuals and immersive stage presence.
Special collaboration alert: Cerisina will join DJ Manimal for a unique live DJ + Vocaloid set you won’t see anywhere else.

★ B3ck1 – Community Guest Singer

We’re also thrilled to welcome B3ck1, a talented singer and proud member of the Otaku Link community, as a guest performer. Known for her expressive vocals and love of fandom music, B3ck1 represents the heart of Otaku Link — showcasing the creativity and passion within our own community.


🎉 After Party – Keep the Hype Alive!

When the main event ends, the celebration continues at the official Otaku Link After Party:

  • 🎧 DJ Manimal spinning late-night anime and gaming beats

  • 🎤 Ray’s Karaoke featuring anime, J-pop and nostalgic favourites

The After Party is included for all attendees aged 18+, or available separately for £5.

After Party Times: 8:30pm – 11:30pm


🎟 Tickets & Event Info

  • Tickets: £8

  • Date: 1 March 2026

  • Venue: The Old Bell Hotel, 51 Sadler Gate, Derby, DE1 3NQ

  • Event Times: 11:30am – 6:30pm

🎫 Purchase online at: otakuworld.co.uk/otakulink15
Tickets will also be available in-store.


💖 Join the Otaku Link Community

Whether you’re an anime veteran or brand new to fandom, Otaku Link is a welcoming space to celebrate shared passions, make friends, and support creativity in all its forms.

Join us as we bring the otaku community together once more — and make Otaku Link 15 our most memorable event yet!

For more updates and information, visit our website and follow Otaku Link online.

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