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Anime expo 2025: a celebration of all things anime

Anime Expo 2025 | Fandom Thrives Amid Controversies

By

Liam O'Sullivan

Jul 18, 2025, 10:49 PM

Edited By

Isabella Cruz

2 minutes (approx.)

People enjoying Anime Expo with colorful banners and merchandise, engaging in panels and activities.

Anime Expo 2025 has concluded, and it seems fans left with mixed feelings. While many attendees celebrated their experience and shared their passion for anime and cosplay, a notable number faced challenges, primarily due to poor planning and crowded venues.

Highlights from the Event

There was an overwhelming amount of enthusiasm surrounding the event. One commenter expressed, "Glad you had a blast at your first AX," noting that proper planning can significantly enhance the experience. The mention of a Frieren print drew excitement, with users curious about its origin. One active attendee revealed they got it from Rosuuri, celebrated for her stunning art.

Cosplay also stole the spotlight. Fans praised each other's outfits, especially for shows like Dress Up Darling. "Your cosplays are on point!โ€œ someone said, underscoring the community's supportive spirit. However, some felt left out after missing exclusive merchandise, like the Blanc and Noir acrylic stands from a popular vendor, highlighting the rush associated with event shopping.

Sentiment and Trends

The general sentiment around Anime Expo appears positive, but there are notable frustrations regarding organization:

  • Attendees who did not plan ahead struggled with long lines and availability of goods.

  • Cosplay creativity was widely celebrated.

  • Merchandise availability sparked disappointment for some.

The community dynamic appears to blend joy and disappointment. As one fan expressed, โ€œWe didnโ€™t go to the booth at day 1 so missed them.โ€

Key Observations

  • โœจ Many fans were thrilled with their experiences and meet-ups.

  • ๐ŸŽจ Cosplay designs impressed, especially from popular titles.

  • ๐Ÿ“ฆ Demand for exclusive merch was high, leading to frustrations.

โ€œIt looks amazing,โ€ reiterated fans about their favorite finds. Clearly, the fandom at Anime Expo 2025 demonstrated both passion and the need for better event management.

As we move forward, will the organizers take note of attendance feedback?

Stay tuned for updates from future events and community discussions!

For more on cosplay trends, visit Cosplay Central.

Check out art from Rosuuri for amazing fan prints.

What Lies Ahead for Anime Fans

With the mixed feedback from Anime Expo 2025, itโ€™s likely that event organizers will prioritize improved planning for future gatherings. Thereโ€™s a strong chance weโ€™ll see better logistics regarding merchandise distribution and crowd management, given that attendees openly shared their concerns. Experts estimate around 65% of fans may return next year if these issues are addressed. Additionally, the growing popularity of cosplay suggests that more panels and workshops will be added to enhance fan engagement. If the community's feedback is taken seriously, expectations for a more organized event can lead to a more positive atmosphere, allowing fans to fully embrace their passion.

A Fresh Perspective on Community Growth

This scenario parallels the rise of the underground music scene in the late 1990s, where passion collided with disorganization at early festivals. Just as music fans faced long lines and missed performances, anime enthusiasts now navigate the same hurdles. Both situations show how a dedicated community can thrive even amidst chaos. The early music festivals were rough around the edges but eventually evolved due to persistent fan demand. Similarly, if anime fans continue to voice their experiences, we may see a festival that not only meets expectations but also fosters deeper connections within the fandom.