Sacramento’s Convention Center has long been home to a variety of social and cultural events, from homecoming dances to the Women’s Expo. So it comes with no shock being the location for Sacramento’s annual anime convention. From August 31st to September 2nd, people of all ages gathered due to a shared love for anime, cartoons, cosplay, and Japanese culture.
This event brings together all different groups of people, taking pictures with each other, viewing and purchasing merchandise, receiving autographs, building friendships, and mingling with other like-minded individuals for an experience that can only be described as chaotic fun in an accepting ambiance.
In addition to the autographing events, SacAnime also offers live shows and concerts, fashion events, and art competitions as well as an interactive maid and butler cafe known as Cafe Hoshi. At night, the event’s atmosphere changes slightly as people either head home or to a dance party where they can enjoy each others’ company.
“It’s a good place for people who love anime to convene,” said a 17-year-old attendee of the event.
While navigating the vendors, one can expect to find: clothes, figurines of all their favorite characters, pillows, tails and other cosplay details, unique stickers, art and manga, a variety of posters, and so much more. There’s always something interesting around every corner to see. One can even pay to have their portrait drawn in different styles of animation.
In case you and your friends get hungry, marble sodas, Pocky, and other Japanese snacks can be found in the shopping areas at the convention. For those who are craving something else, there are a few restaurants and coffee shops inside, as well as lots of nearby restaurants outside of the Convention Center, like Pieology or P.F. Changs.
When attending, one can expect to pay about $30-$45 for one day while this year’s weekend pass was $50. Up until a couple days before the event, people are able to pre-register online, otherwise a long wait in line may be required.
All in all, for a fun time and chance to make great memories, SacAnime is the place to go. With cute snacks, unique art, and collectors items there’s something for everyone and you’ll get an experience like no other.