If your love language is arguing over who’s the best anime MC of all time, level up your next date at Anime Festival Asia (AFA) Singapore 2025 – where merch hunts, snack runs, and cosplayer spotting turn into an IRL quest for two. Here are some of the best couple activities at this year’s AFA.
Swap candlelight and soft jazz for neon signs, buzzing halls, and the occasional oversized sword swooshing by – if that sounds like your idea of a great time, Anime Festival Asia Singapore 2025 might just be your ultimate date spot.
If you can happily spend hours debating plot twists or arguing over which side character deserved more screen time, AFA turns into a full-on co-op quest. It’s loud, colourful, slightly chaotic, and packed with things to explore together.
When is AFA 2025?
AFA Singapore 2025 is happening 28, 29, and 30 November 2025, at Suntec Singapore Convention & Exhibition Centre. So anime fans and couples, it’s time to start planning to hit up the biggest anime convention of the year. Depending on what you plan to do and how many days you plan to attend, ticket prices and types vary greatly. Do check out the AFA ticketing site to decide which suits you and your partner best.
How to enjoy AFA as a couple?
From themed photo spots to exclusive merch drops and hands-on experiences, AFA has plenty for couples who want to share their fandoms – and maybe discover new ones together. If you're planning a date that’s equal parts fun, quirky, and memorable, these activities are a great place to start.
1. Explore the Creators Hub
The Creators Hub is where the magic truly begins. If you’re wondering what to do at AFA Singapore, this is something you can’t-miss! With rows of figurines, plushies, posters, and collectibles line the aisles, couples can browse together, point out favourites, and even decide on matching items. Whether it’s a cute keychain or a custom piece of digital art, hunting for these finds together adds a playful, low-stakes challenge to your date.
Some creators to look out for include:
- Ericathw_ (CH01): Whimsical, fantasy-inspired illustrations are perfect for lovers of dreamy, soft-colour art
- Keenbiscuit (CH08): For chibi bite-sized character sketches and witty little prints that are ideal for gifts (or matching souvenirs).
- SAKIMICHAN ART (CH154): Character portraits in a polished, ethereal style that’s ideal for fans (or couples) who love more dramatic artwork
2. Track down your favourite cosplayers
Wandering into the Cosplay Hub feels like walking into a live-action montage, except it’s at an anime convention in Singapore. This year’s roster is packed – expect to spot names like HaneAme, XIAOYUKIKO, Byoru, Jean Wanwan, and Tiny Asa.
To inject a little more fun, turn this into a shared mission: pick which characters you want to find, go on mini “scavenger hunts,” and take fun selfie duos when you do. Just like when you’re playing “Where’s Wally”, the hunt is half the joy.
3. Rest and recharge at the Food Street
After looping through Akiba Town and cosplayer zones, hit the Food Street for a well-deserved breather. Featuring food stalls like Kimukatsu and SOHTT, you’ll be able to satisfy your Japanese food cravings with traditional, fusion, and trendy grub.
Sit down, share bites, and map out your next move, all while looking out for your favourite characters and cosplayers. Tip: Take this chance to recharge between merch shopping, panels, and fan interactions.
4. Catch panels, screenings, and shows
Need a break to stop yourself from breaking the bank? Take a break from shopping and pop in for voice-actor talks, performances, anime previews, and more. At the AFA NEXT Stage, you’ll be able to fanboy/girl with your partner over music acts by Nowlu, STARKIDS, Lollipop!!!!!!!, and more. You’ll be able to vibe together, share your love for music, and simply immerse yourselves in the moment.
If you prefer something more introspective, catch one of the segments at the Day Stage. You’ll need separate access for this but with featured anime like SPYxFAMILY and Frieren, it’s well worth it. Whether you’re learning fun behind-the-scenes tidbits or discovering a new series together, these moments offer a cosy, thoughtful contrast to the hustle of the exhibition floor.
5. Try couples' cosplay
Cosplaying at AFA adds a certain element of fun and surprise. Cosplaying together (even lightly) is less about perfection and more about having a shared experience and creating cute photo memories you’ll laugh about later.
If you’re thinking of cosplaying together at AFA just for the fun of it, we suggest trying a simple “duo” cosplay theme that reflects your favourite pairs in anime! These duos could be romantic, friendly, or even rivals. For something a little more subtle, use small matching props: think capes, headbands, or themed accessories from series you both love.
6. Check out the LAM Art Exhibition
One of the coolest hidden gems of AFA Singapore 2025 is the LAM Art Exhibition, featuring works by celebrated Japanese illustrator LAM – the very artist behind character designs for takt op. and rhythm game WACCA.
At this exhibit, you and your date can browse exclusive LAM artworks and limited-edition prints, many of which are only available at the festival. There’s also a merch drop where you’ll find everything from artbooks and posters to desk mats and clear files celebrating LAM’s signature style. For couples who dig art, character design, and the deeper aesthetic side of anime culture, this is a must‑visit spot.
7. End off with an Anisong Concert
Picture this: you and your partner, side by side in the crowd, glowsticks in hand, belting out lines from your favourite anime songs. The energy is electric, emotional, and totally immersive – exactly the kind of moment that feels like the climax of your AFA adventure.
That’s where the I ♡ Anisong Music Festival comes in. This year, the concert lineup is stacked across three nights with a dynamic range of performances and acts each day:
- SPARKLE (Fri): asmi, NOMELON NOLEMON, Sakurazaka46, SPYAIR
- GLOW (Sat): fhána, HIMEHINA, nonoc, Shouta Aoi, Yoko Takahashi
- BLAZE (Sun): ALI, May’n, Wednesday Campanella, and more.
Now you know how to enjoy AFA as a couple
An AFA date isn’t about quiet or intimate moments – it’s all about the shared chaos, fandom, and little victories along the way (like snagging the last piece of merch your partner really wanted). It’s the perfect adventure for couples who bond over manga, anime, and Japanese pop culture, and you’ll leave with photos, souvenirs, inside jokes, and a ton of shared memories. All you need for a truly memorable date.
If you haven’t already, get your tickets for AFA 2025 here.
with Love,
The Dateideas Team
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