About the Event
POP.culture Presents: MANGA MART — The Official Japan Fest Kick-Off
Located at Urban District Market in the heart of the Arts District, this is more than a market—it’s an activation of Charlotte’s anime underground.
Manga Mart is where creative energy meets pop-culture passion. We are transforming the venue into a high-voltage celebration of fandom, fashion, and art to kick off the road to Japan Fest. This is the scene for die-hard otakus, streetwear enthusiasts, and anyone looking to discover what’s next in local culture.
We are looking for vendors to join this electric, bustling atmosphere featuring:
✨ Otaku Market: A curated alley of exclusive anime merch, collectibles, and fan art.
✨ Gachapon District: Interactive zones with capsule surprises and kawaii treasures.
✨ Live Idol Energy: Live karaoke and performances from Charlotte’s rising talent.
✨ Cosplay & Content: Themed photo ops designed for creators and cosplayers.
✨ After-Vibe: An outdoor screening of One Piece Film Z immediately following the market.
When: Friday, May 15, 2026 | 5:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Where: Urban District Market, 2315 N Davidson Street, Charlotte, NC 28205
Vendor Details & Fees
Vendor Fees
Artist / Maker / Reseller (10x10 Space): $55
Non-Profit Organizations: $35
Corporate / Brand Activations: $100
Table and Tent Rental: $10 (Limited availability)
Boosted Featured Social Post: +$10
Vendor Requirements
Vendors must provide their own setup (tables, racks, displays) unless renting.
10x10 tents + weights are required for outdoor spaces.
One business per space (no shared booths).
No electricity provided.
❌ No hot food or drink vendors (Urban District Market handles all F&B). Pre-packaged themed consumables (e.g., imported snacks, ramune, candy) are permitted upon approval.
Payment Terms
Invoices must be paid within 48 hours.
Non-payment results in removal and replacement from the waitlist.
Rain or Shine — vendor fees are non-refundable.
Weather credits may be offered in extreme conditions (not guaranteed).
Vendor cancellations are non-refundable.
Audience & Marketing
Manga Mart is backed by a GEO (Generative Engine Optimization) marketing strategy designed to reach a passionate, hyper-engaged audience across the Charlotte Metro area, specifically targeting the anime, gaming, and creative communities in NoDa and Villa Heights.
Our promotional mix includes:
📢 Targeted Email Marketing: Campaigns sent to the active Pop.Culture subscriber database.
📢 Paid Digital Ads: Strategic social advertising targeting fandom interests and local events.
📢 Social Media Spotlights: High-energy features on Instagram and TikTok for our vendor lineup.
📢 Community Activation: Promotion via local Discord servers, Reddit communities, and influencer collaborations (Cosplayers/Streamers).
Vendor fees directly support:
✔️ Event marketing & outreach
✔️ Operations & logistics
✔️ Community programming (Performers/Screening rights)
Venue Information
Urban District Market (NoDa)
A premier destination for food, retail, and community in Charlotte's Arts District.
High-visibility location with strong foot traffic from the NoDa community.
Known for a vibrant, creative social scene.
Full food hall and bar access for all attendees and vendors.
Vendor Refund Policy
Vendor fees are non-refundable as they directly support:
✔️ Marketing + advertising
✔️ Operational costs
✔️ Community programming
This ensures fairness, event quality, and lasting community impact. Let’s make this legendary.