In recognition of FanimeCon’s 20th anniversary, the City of San Jose declared May 23, 2014, as the first Fanime Day, kicking off with opening ceremonies at the San Jose McEnery Convention Center.
In its platinum year, FanimeCon, northern California’s largest anime convention, is expected to generate an economic impact of $10.5 million in visitor spending to San Jose’s local economy, with more than 24,500 attendees.
“The City of San Jose is proud to proclaim Fanime Day and partner with Team San Jose and FanimeCon to celebrate their impact on our local economy,” said Pete Constant, San Jose councilmember, who issued the proclamation on behalf of Mayor Chuck Reed. “San Jose’s vibrant downtown, cultural offerings and diverse entertainment makes San Jose an excellent destination for FanimeCon’s attendees and fans.”
Following the proclamation, the Japanese Consulate led a Coming of Age ceremony signifying Japan’s legal age of 20. FanimeCon took place May 23-26 at the San Jose Convention Center.
“We’re delighted that the community values our event and we are thrilled with the results so far of this year’s convention,” said Milton Le, director of communications and marketing of FanimeCon. “Twenty years is a pivotal milestone for us and as one of the last three remaining Japantowns in the U.S., San Jose is a perfect location for our convention.”
This year’s beach-themed convention paired a lineup of fan favorite events with a cast of renowned and emerging anime celebrities to provide a memorable experience. Guests of honor at FanimeCon included voice actors/actresses, animators, directors, returning guests of honor and many more.
“We appreciate the business this convention brings to San Jose year after year,” said Karolyn Kirchgesler, CEO of Team San Jose.”It’s great fun to see FanimeCon’s eccentric costumed characters transform downtown San Jose into a virtual anime set. Fans love how they can walk from the convention center to dining and entertainment, and locals love seeing what characters they might be sitting next to at San Jose restaurants, galleries and theaters.”
