Anime Expo 2020 Canceled | Game Rant
As one of the biggest anime conventions in the world, Anime Expo is synonymous with the rising popularity of anime in the U.S. over several decades. But the current coronavirus pandemic has canceled many sport events and other conventions like San Diego Comic Con, leaving the fate of this year's Anime Expo uncertain for the past few weeks. However, a recent announcement finally confirmed news that shouldn't surprise anyone: Anime Expo 2020 is officially canceled.
Since its inception in 1992, Anime Expo has celebrated anime, manga, video games, and cosplay over a 4 day period during the first week of July. Before settling at the L.A. Convention Center, the event has been held in other California cities such as San Jose, Long Beach, and Anaheim. With over 29 years of history, this will be the first time the event won't take place because of special circumstances.
Ray Chiang, CEO of the Society for the Promotion of Japanese Animation that plans Anime Expo, posted an update on the official website and Twitter explaining the decision. With increasing restrictions in Los Angeles and world-wide, the Anime Expo team wouldn't be able to hold an event that lives up to past standards nor guarantees the safety of all attendees. However, everyone that has bought a ticket for this year's convention will have the option to fully refund their ticket or roll it over to Anime Expo 2021.
While the news is disappointing to many fans, the pandemic will hopefully be over by next year. Furthermore, there's still a chance celebrations and other announcements can move online.
Source: Anime Expo
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