San Antonio is gearing up for what organizers say will be the biggest San Japan convention yet. The three‑day anime and gaming festival, now in its 17th year, will run from Friday through Sunday at the Henry B. González Convention Center over Labor Day weekend.
Record‑breaking expectations
San Japan Chairman Miguel Rodriquez told reporters the event drew 35,000 attendees last year. “Everything we’ve seen about the show, and our numbers show that we are on pace to break that number by quite a bit,” he said, indicating confidence that this year’s crowd will surpass the previous record.
Why fans come
For many attendees, San Japan is more than a showcase of costumes and collectibles; it is a place to connect with fellow enthusiasts. Long‑time fan Adriana Fazin described the excitement of seeing the convention in person, noting the impressive cosplays on display. Visitor Violet Casey, who traveled from Connecticut on a family trip, highlighted the community aspect, saying, “Connecting with new people is, in my opinion, one of the best parts of conventions. It’s so welcoming and so fun. Everybody’s so kind.”
Growth and expanding programming
Veteran attendee Andrew, who has been coming since San Japan 11, observed the event’s growth in both size and scope. “I’ve seen an increase in the number of guests around here, as well as the number of people cosplaying,” he said. He added that recent years have brought more performers and international guests, enriching the experience for local fans.
The convention’s schedule includes a mix of cosplay contests, gaming tournaments, panel discussions, meet‑and‑greets with creators, artist vendor halls, and arcade attractions. Organizers say the diverse programming is designed to appeal to families, teens, and adults alike, reinforcing San Japan’s role as a cultural hub for South Texas.
Local impact
San Japan’s expanding attendance benefits the local economy, drawing visitors who stay in hotels, dine at restaurants, and shop at nearby businesses. City officials have praised the event for showcasing San Antonio as a destination for pop‑culture tourism.
The convention will conclude on Sunday at 5 p.m., with organizers promising a final day of festivities that will leave fans eager for the next edition.
Original reporting: San Antonio, TX News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
