Anime conventions are intriguing celebrations of anime, manga, and Japanese culture aficionados. California is lucky to have many anime conventions with a wide range of activities and events for all interests.
Voice actors, artists, and other industry experts are a major draw at anime conventions. These guests offer unique insights into anime and manga, making panel discussions and seminars must-see events for con-goers. Artist alleys frequently found at anime conventions across California allow talented artists to sell their work.
Cosplay contests are probably the most thrilling part of anime events. Fans can dress as their favorite anime characters and truly experience the fantasy world here.
While you are here, check out some of our best anime-inspired cosplay guides:
2023 Anime Cons in California
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View All US Anime Conventions
| Convention | Dates | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Animé Los Angeles 2023 | January 5-8, 2023 | Long Beach Convention & Entertainment Center Long Beach, CA |
| SacAnime Winter 2023 | January 6-8, 2023 | SAFE Credit Union Convention Center Sacramento, CA |
| Anime Impulse 2023 | January 14-15, 2023 | Pomona Fairplex Pomona, CA |
| Anime Gaming Expo 2023 | February 4-5, 2023 | Big Fresno Fairgrounds Fresno, CA |
| CarrierCon 2023 | March 18, 2023 | USS Hornet Museum Alameda, CA |
| AniFest 2023 | April 8, 2023 | Torrance Cultural Arts Center Torrance, CA |
| FanimeCon 2023 | May 26-29, 2023 | San Jose McEnery Convention Center San Jose, CA |
| Anime Expo 2023 | July 1-4, 2023 | Los Angeles Convention Center Los Angeles, CA |
| Crunchyroll Expo 2023 | August 4-6, 2023 | San Jose McEnery Convention Center San Jose, CA |
| Collect-A-Con Long Beach 2023 | August 26-27, 2023 | Long Beach Convention & Entertainment Center Long Beach, CA |
| Fan Expo San Francisco 2023 | November 24-26, 2023 | Moscone Center San Francisco, CA |
CA Anime Conventions: What to Expect
Conventions devoted to Japanese animation in California are a prime opportunity for devotees of the genre to congregate and celebrate their love of anime with each other and the creators who comprise the industry.
Thousands of fans travel to attend events like Animé Los Angeles in Long Beach and Anime Expo in Los Angeles. Conventions vary in terms of what they have to offer, but they all have something in common, such as panels, seminars, and artist alleys featuring voice actors.
Cosplay Opportunities at California Anime Cons
It’s no secret that cosplay is a huge draw at anime conventions, and fans in California certainly don’t need to worry about being disappointed. Fans of Japanese popular culture can dress up as their favorite characters from anime, manga, or J-pop for photo ops, contests, and other activities.
For instance, at San Jose’s FanimeCon, participants can compete in a variety of cosplay categories, including those for groups, individuals, and even a “performance” category. Anime Expo, the largest anime festival in North America, features a devoted cosplay area featuring workshops, meet-ups, and a cosplay contest. Animé Los Angeles also has a costume contest and a cosplay repair station and lounge.