Welcome to another episode of Fangirls Unleashed, where we attended Fanimecon for the third year in a row. What's Fanimecon? It's Northern California's biggest anime convention, held in our beloved city of San Jose during Memorial Day weekend. What separates this con from others is that it's created for fans, by fans. This means that Fanime really knows what the public wants. Each year they have a theme, and 2018 was gaming. Boy, oh boy, they did not disappoint. Couldn't make it? We've got the solution. Scroll down below for the Top 5 Highlights and a fun vlog of Fanimecon 2018. Let's go!
1. Artist Alley
Artist Alley is one of the biggest aspect of Fanime that you HAVE to experience. Original artwork inspired by your favorite anime, such as Tokyo Ghoul and My Hero Academia, is created by artists across the country. Not only that, you'll also get to see original creations, such as adorable big-eyed dragons to the most original creation that are mercats. As in a mermaid and cat hybrid. Be prepared to stay in here for a while, since Artist Alley is so popular, it'll take you a good 15-20 minutes to walk through the densely packed crowd to exit an aisle.
2. Gaming Hall
Since 2018's theme was gaming, Fanime's Gaming Hall went all out. There was everything from tabletop games to the 1999 explosive hit that is Dance Dance Revolution. As you can see from our vlog below, fanime attendees definitely embraced this theme.
3. Fanimaid Cafe
Fanimaid Cafe turned 10 in 2018, and it's definitely one of the longest running features of Fanime. Popular in Akihabara, Japan, you don't need to have a passport to experience a slice of Japanese pop culture. We've got an exclusive tour of the Cafe, seeing what snacks attendees can munch on to the different games that you can play. Did we also mention that there's a photo opportunity?
4. Dealer's Hall
Dealer's Hall is the place to go if you want to buy exclusive Japanese merchandise. There's everything from Build Your Own Gundam models to wigs to take your cosplay to the next level. Speaking of cosplays...
5. Cosplayers
We've been saying it for years, Fanimecon hands down has THE best cosplays we have ever seen. With what seems like 90% of attendees in cosplay, you will not be disappointed by how much they look liked they've just stepped out of your favorite manga or anime. With a life-sized Snorlax (shoutout to Team Sunrise!) to Goku in Super Saiyan God Form on a hover board, you bet our videographer/photographer was a kid in a candy store. Us Fangirls joined in on the fun by cosplaying as Plusle and Minun from Pokemon.
And that's a wrap on Fanime 2018! What was your favorite part? Comment below so we can geek out over one of our favorite conventions in San Jose. We hoped you've enjoyed this episode and stay tuned for Fanimecon 2019, where it's their 25th silver anniversary. Until then, happy readings!
Farewell Addie
Alas, this episode marks Addie's last blog appearance on Fangirls Unleashed. My best friend, carpool buddy, and fellow hot cheetos fan has spread her wings and flew further up Northern California. An exciting update is that she has adopted the corgi of her dreams. Alyssa has been trying the past couple of months to convince her to make Shakes our official mascot. Addie's response? "LOL, no." Well, a girl tried.
Who am I?
I am a founding member of Fangirls Unleashed. Our mission is to show our patrons what's trending in the young adult world and local conventions and how to explore those interests through the San Jose Public Library. When I'm not blogging you can find me with an iced coffee in one hand and the hottest YA book in the other. Want to see our latest convention adventure and #What'sNewAtTheLibrary? Follow us on our social media links down below.
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