Alright, anime amigos! Buckle up, because we’re about to dive into the electrifying world of the best anime conventions. Whether you’re into mainstream hits like My Hero Academia or you prefer deep dives into psychological thrillers like Monster, there’s nothing quite like the experience of an anime convention. As someone who’s been around the block a few times (and maybe cosplayed as Spike Spiegel once or twice), I’m excited to share my top picks for anime conventions in Los Angeles, New York City, and Mexico City. These events aren’t just gatherings for weebs; they’re celebrations of the art, storytelling, and culture, community that make being an otaku so special. ^0^
Los Angeles: The Anime Mecca of the West Coast
Los Angeles is to anime conventions what Tokyo is to giant cities—the undisputed titan of the scene. If the anime con world were My Hero, LA would be All Might in his prime. The City of Angels has been flexing its otaku muscles for decades, hosting some of the largest and most influential anime events in the world. Why does LA reign supreme in North America? Its proximity to Japan, thriving entertainment industry, and long-standing Asian-American communities create the perfect storm for anime culture to flourish. From the colossal Anime Expo to the cozy vibes of smaller local cons, LA offers a year-round buffet of anime goodness that would make even Luffy’s appetite seem modest.
1. Anime Expo (AX)
Where: Los Angeles Convention Center
When: Early July
Why You Should Check It Out:
- The largest anime convention in North America, attracting over 100,000 attendees
- Premier destination for industry announcements and exclusive previews
- Incredible lineup of guests, from voice actors to manga artists
- Massive exhibitor hall that’s basically an otaku’s dream shopping spree
Insider Tip: Plan your schedule in advance. WAY in advance. With so much going on, it’s easy to miss out on panels or events you really want to see if you’re not prepared!
2. Anime Los Angeles (ALA)
Where: Long Beach Convention & Entertainment Center
When: January
Why You Should Check It Out:
- A more intimate vibe compared to AX, great for meaningful interactions
- Strong focus on cosplay and fan-created content
- Excellent for networking with fellow fans and creators
Insider Tip: Don’t miss the late-night programming, including dances and a fashion show!
3. Anime Pasadena
Where: Pasadena Convention Center
When: November
Why You Should Check It Out:
- Newer convention with a fresh, energetic atmosphere
- Great balance of industry presence and fan-driven content
- Perfect for those who find larger cons overwhelming
Insider Tip: Though relatively small, parking can still be difficult in this popular area. Arrive early, or consider taking LACMTA’s A Line.
Honorable Mention: 4. San Diego Comic-Con (SDCC)
Where: San Diego Convention Center
When: July
Why You Should Check It Out:
- Major presence of anime and manga publishers with big announcements
- Exclusive anime premieres and industry panels
- Chance to see anime’s integration with broader pop culture!
Insider Tip: Don’t miss the off-site anime events in the Gaslamp Quarter. Many anime companies host parties and interactive experiences around the convention center, and it’s a great excuse to check out this hip, walkable neighborhood in California’s southernmost metropolis.
New York City: The East Coast’s Rising Star
If New York City’s anime convention scene were a shonen protagonist, right now it’s powering up at an incredibly fast rate after starting off slow. While it may not have as many dedicated anime conventions as some other cities, the Big Apple is quickly becoming a major player in the anime event world. Here’s why: NYC’s diverse population, strong otaku community, and status as a America’s largest city and an international cultural hub all combine to make it ripe grounds for anime-related events. Though some older cons have sadly now gone defunct, newer events are stepping up to fill the void, bringing fresh energy to this burgeoning scene.
5. Anime NYC
Where: Jacob K. Javits Convention Center
When: November
Why You Should Check It Out:
- Rapidly growing to become the East Coast’s premier anime event
- Strong industry presence with major announcements and premieres
- Diverse programming that caters to various aspects of anime and Japanese culture
Insider Tip: The Artist Alley here is phenomenal, showcasing some of the Big Apple’s incredible talent. Set aside time (and budget!) to support indie creators.
6. New York Comic Con (NYCC)
Where: Jacob K. Javits Convention Center
When: October
Why You Should Check It Out:
- While not exclusively anime-focused, NYCC has a significant anime and manga presence
- Attracts major anime industry players and often features anime-related announcements
- Offers a chance to explore the intersection of anime with broader pop culture
Insider Tip: Check out the anime-specific panels and screenings! They’re often less crowded than the main events, so you can see more than you would at some other conventions, but that doesn’t make them any less exciting.
7. BX-Anime & Comic Expo
Where: Various locations in the Bronx
When: Typically in Spring (check their website for exact dates)
Why You Should Check It Out:
- Smaller scale allows for more intimate fan interactions
- Showcases local artists and creators alongside bigger industry guests
- Reflects the richness and diversity of NYC’s anime fandom
Insider Tip: This is a great place to discover up-and-coming artists and cosplayers from the local NYC scene! It’s small, but it’s been going for years and has a dedicated community.
Mexico City (CDMX): Where Anime is the Spice of Life
Mexico City’s anime convention scene is like a fusion dance creation that perfectly blends Japanese pop culture with Latin American zest – unexpected, exciting, and absolutely delightful. While it may not have the sheer size of events found in some U.S. cities, what CDMX lacks in scale, it more than makes up for in heart and innovation. The city’s anime events are popular with Mexico’s fervent otaku community, who have turned their passion into a veritable cultural phenomenon in the country (as anyone who heard about the Dragon Ball Super public watch parties can attest). From homegrown conventions that spotlight local talent to international events that bridge cultures, CDMX’s anime scene is as vibrant and colorful as the city itself!
8. Expo TNT
Where: Centro de Convenciones Tlatelolco, CDMX
When: Multiple times a year (February, July, and more)
Why Anime Fans Love It:
- Largest anime-focused convention in Mexico
- Frequent events mean more opportunities to engage with the community
- Great for picking up merchandise, especially items hard to find outside Japan
Insider Tip: With 5 events in CDMX and 2 events in Guadalajara held every year, this is a great con to get into if you want to meet different crowds without having to dive into the unknown!
9. AniMole (Part of La Mole Comic Con)
Where: World Trade Center, CDMX
When: September (AniMole Edition)
Why It Stands Out:
- AniMole is a special edition of La Mole Comic Con that focuses on anime, manga, and Japanese culture.
- While La Mole is typically more pop culture-oriented, AniMole goes deep into the anime world, with guest appearances from mangakas, voice actors, and unique concerts sure to please any otaku.
Insider Tip: Keep an eye out for exclusive Latin American releases and collaborations.
Honorable Mention: 10. La Conve-Animex
Where: Cintermex Convention Center, Monterrey, Mexico
When: November
What Makes It Unique:
- One of the largest anime conventions in northern Mexico
- Draws in thousands of anime fans, cosplayers, and pop culture enthusiasts
- Great opportunity to see how anime influences and is influenced by Mexican pop culture
Insider Tip: Get there early to explore the vendor hall for exclusive anime merch, and don’t miss the chance to meet international voice actors and special guests!
Final Thoughts
These conventions offer something for every type of anime fan, from the casual viewer to the hardcore otaku. They’re not just about the panels or the merch – they’re about connecting with a community that shares your passion. Whether you’re theorizing about the latest plot twist in “Attack on Titan” or debating the philosophical themes of “Neon Genesis Evangelion,” these events are where you’ll find your people.
Remember, cons are what you make of them. Go with an open mind, be respectful of others (especially in cosplay), and don’t be afraid to step out of your comfort zone. You might go for the anime, but you’ll stay for the friendships and memories you’ll make.
Got any con stories or tips of your own? Drop them in the comments below. And who knows, maybe we’ll cross paths at one of these events someday. Until then, happy con-going!
