On Halloween night, Monday Night Garage was transformed for Trap Sushi’s Halloween celebration, a gathering at the intersection of anime, hip-hop, cosplay, and the Atlanta nightlife scene. The brainchild of artist Tolden “Troop” Williams and his wife, Stephanie Lindo-Williams, Trap Sushi has grown from an idea shared between the couple to a thriving series of events, attracting fans from all over.
For this Halloween gathering, Williams brought out fresh elements, including new merchandise, themed sushi, and songs from his latest album, Atlanta Made (which was released on Halloween), “The album is full of bangers, songs we made to play at the party,” Troop said, describing how his music keeps the party atmosphere alive and interactive. The event allows fans to celebrate their shared love for anime and hip-hop in a judgment-free space, welcoming both dedicated fans and newcomers to explore their interests without hesitation. The celebration also included on-site sushi made by Sushi Party ATL, a private catering company. On-site chef Donnie Lukman told The Atlanta Voice, “It’s good to see people having such a good time being them”.
Returning cosplayers and vendors alike have become an integral part of the Trap Sushi community. Several vendors occupy the Trap-Sushi arena, including Atlanta-based designer Jordan Solomon who brought his anime-inspired designs, including tie-dye and acid-wash shirts inspired by his favorite childhood characters. “I wanted my designs to pop out more,” Solomon explained, “ I wanted to find a way to blend everything together; my love for fashion and art,” Solomon continued.
Cosplayer AJ Johnson, who dressed as Superman in Hollywood director James Gunn’s upcoming, 2025 “Superman” film; described Trap Sushi as a homecoming of sorts. “The amazing team, the artists—everybody here is so creative and outgoing. I just love it here,” said Johnson.
Trap Sushi has since grown into an international event, with expansions reaching as far as Tokyo and Texas. “Tokyo was phenomenal,” Lindo-Williams shared, reflecting on their recent international debut. “It was our test run for expanding, and now we’re hoping to organize travel packages for fans by spring 2025. That way, supporters can pay a single price to cover flights, lodging, and entry to the event.”
Lindo-Williams called Trap Sushi an “inclusive, global experience.”
Lindo-Williams’ journey with Trap Sushi was brought to life by their shared love for anime but also in their commitment to creating spaces that celebrate diversity within Black culture. Married for three years as of September, they credit each other’s support for Trap Sushi’s success. “We wanted to bring people together in a way that reflects who we are and the things we love,” Lindo-Williams noted.
To keep up with Trap Sushi on social media or visit trapsushi.com for updates on future events
