Anime conventions make a great way for fans to get together and enjoy everything that they love about the industry. While they took some years to really get rolling, most of today’s popular conventions see some of the biggest names in the anime world meeting with fans, offering new content, and being a part of something that has grown more popular with each passing year.
While there are anime conventions around the world, the most well-known of them tend to take place in the US and can see tens of thousands of visitors over the duration of the event. For any anime-lovers that are keen on going to a convention, keep reading to find out which of them are considered the best.
Sakura-Con
The anime convention was first announced to the public with the name Baka!-Con, and is based within the city of Seattle. When it first began in 1998, it was very little more than a small group of fans that believed that there was not enough anime content being offered at other sci-fi conventions at the time. Today, it’s one of the biggest events in the city, and sees more than 25000 people come through the doors every year. There are contests, stands, competitions, and so much more.
Anime Expo
There are few fans of anime that haven’t heard of Anime Expo, which is widely considered one of the best that the industry has to offer. It’s home to some of the biggest names around and makes for the perfect getaway for anyone that loves anime, especially considering that the event takes place over a period of four days. Set in the city of Los Angeles, some feel that the four days aren’t nearly long enough considering there’s just so much to see and do.
The only problem with Anime Expo is its popularity – visitors can expect to deal with seriously long waiting times and huge crowds. In fact, it’s not uncommon for the event to exceed more than 100,000 visitors over the course of those four days. So, make sure you go prepared with a book, a gaming device, or your mobile phone so you can play real money pokies online.
Otakon
If we’re talking about overall popularity, Otakon typically takes the cake. For most of its existence, this convention was held in the city of Baltimore, but in 2017 the event was instead moved to Washington DC. While the move was to the dismay of many, it ultimately proved to be a good move, as the larger convention venue meant that more people could visit every time it takes place.
There are almost endless things to do and see at Otakon, including live bands, performances, and the chance to meet some of the most well-known personalities in the world of anime, including voice actors. The staff are known for being accommodating, but make sure to book early as the venue can only hold around 30,000 people in total.