Get your Gundam and Sailor Moon costumes ready because the 2025 Anime Expo kicked off at the Los Angeles Convention Center Thursday.
The largest anime expo in North America is expected to welcome more than 100,000 fans and industry members to celebrate Japanese pop culture, including Japanese entertainment, music, fashion and video games.
The event runs from 10 a.m. each day through Sunday with organizing promising 1,000 hours of programming, including panels and Q&A sessions with special guests as well as cosplay contests and photo opportunities.
“I just walk around, see what’s new, what’s going to be coming soon and meet with other cosplayers,” said Andrew Aquino, who dressed up as a Helldiver.
MyVy Ngo also took a lot of time and effort to play the part as she cosplayed as Tegan from “Demon Slayer.”
“I have a headpiece that I ordered off Etsy. I have a wig ad a one-piece dress that comes with a belt and chains,” Ngo described.
Cosplay gatherings are some of the most popular programs during the event as fans meet others from their fandom community and take photos together.
While the exhibit hall serves as a marketplace for official merchandise, collectibles and electronics, visitors can also get a first look at new anime series, movies, and game announcements, organizers said.
Attendees are encouraged to plan ahead by prioritizing the panels, guests and events that interest them.
Each visitor will need to purchase a badge for a one-day pass or four-day pass to enter. Some special events like concerts or the Masquerade may require separate tickets.
And because long lines are for popular panels and events, especially on Friday and Saturday, organizers urged people to arrive early.