The global anime community is gearing up for one of the year’s most significant cultural spectacles as the third wave of performers for Animelo Summer Live 2026 has been officially revealed. Known colloquially as “Anisama,” the event continues to solidify its reputation as the world’s largest anime song live festival, blending high-production music with the star power of Japan’s most prominent voice acting talent.
This year’s iteration marks a notable departure from tradition. Due to extensive large-scale renovation work currently underway at the Saitama Super Arena, the festival has shifted its venue to Makuhari Messe. The scheduling has been moved forward by more than a month compared to typical years, with the event now set to take place from July 10 to July 12, 2026.
The latest announcement introduces a diverse array of talent, ranging from seasoned veterans making long-awaited returns to rising stars marking their first major appearance on the Anisama stage. The third wave of artists ensures a balance of nostalgic appeal and new-generation energy, catering to a global fanbase that views these performances as the pinnacle of the anime music industry.
Venue Shift and Event Schedule
The transition to Makuhari Messe represents a significant logistical change for the organizers. While the Saitama Super Arena has long been the spiritual home of the event, the necessity of the renovations has forced a move to the Chiba-based convention center. This shift, combined with the July date, alters the usual summer rhythm for attendees and performers alike.
The three-day event is structured to showcase different facets of the industry. The first day, July 10, will feature the return of the voice actor unit harmoe, consisting of Hiyori Iwata and Moeka Koizumi. This marks their second appearance at the festival and their first since 2023, following a three-year hiatus from the Anisama stage. The unit celebrated their fifth debut anniversary in March of this year, adding a layer of milestone significance to their return.
The Return of Daisuke Ono and Solo Debuts
One of the most anticipated revelations in the third wave is the return of Daisuke Ono. A powerhouse in the industry, Ono is widely recognized for his leading roles as Sebastian Michaelis in Black Butler and Jotaro Kujo in the JoJo’s Bizarre Adventure series. Ono will appear as a solo artist on July 11, marking his second appearance at the festival and his first in 14 years, having last performed at the event in 2012.
Sharing the July 11 stage is Yuuko Natsuyoshi, who will make her solo debut at Animelo Summer Live. Natsuyoshi, performing as Kaguya from Cho Kaguya-hime!, brings a particular point of interest for fans: this event will mark the first time she performs songs from Cho Kaguya-hime! at a live, real-world event. Her inclusion highlights the festival’s role in transitioning digital and recorded success into live performance milestones.
Industry Staples and Anniversary Milestones
The final day of the festival, July 12, will feature a blend of consistent favorites and celebratory appearances. The five-member voice actor idol unit i☆Ris is scheduled to perform, marking their 11th appearance at the event and their third consecutive year. The group’s longevity at Anisama underscores their enduring popularity and their status as staples of the anime song circuit.
Also appearing on July 12 is Aguri Onishi. Like harmoe, Onishi celebrated a major professional milestone in March, marking the fifth anniversary of her debut as an artist. Her appearance on the closing day is expected to be a highlight for fans tracking the growth of the current generation of voice actor-singers.
Summary of Third Wave Performers by Date
- July 10 (Friday): harmoe (Hiyori Iwata and Moeka Koizumi) — First appearance since 2023.
- July 11 (Saturday): Daisuke Ono — First appearance since 2012; Yuuko Natsuyoshi — Solo debut and first live performance of Cho Kaguya-hime! songs.
- July 12 (Sunday): i☆Ris — 11th total appearance; Aguri Onishi — Celebrating fifth artist debut anniversary.
As the festival approaches, the focus will shift toward the final performer announcements and ticket logistics for the Makuhari Messe venue. For those following the event, the next confirmed checkpoint will be the announcement of the remaining artist slots and the detailed set times for the July 10–12 window.
Do you have a favorite performer returning to the stage this year? Share your thoughts and expectations for Animelo Summer Live 2026 in the comments below.