Anime Matsuri
| Anime Matsuri | |
|---|---|
| Status | Active |
| Genre | Anime, Japanese culture |
| Venue | George R. Brown Convention Center |
| Location(s) | Houston, Texas |
| Country | United States |
| Inaugurated | 2007 |
| Attendance | 30,215 in 2016 |
| Website | |
| http://www.animematsuri.com/ | |
Anime Matsuri is an annual three-day anime convention traditionally held during March/April at the George R. Brown Convention Center in Houston, Texas, though its 2016 convention was held in February. The convention's name comes from the Japanese word 'matsuri' meaning festival. Anime Matsuri is the 7th largest North American anime convention as of 2016.
The convention's programming includes an artists' alley, a carshow, the attendance of celebrities and special guests, cosplay chess, cosplay contests, fashion shows, gaming events, karaoke, live concerts, maid cafe, panels, a vendors' and exhibitors' area, and workshops. The Charity Auction benefited Child's Play in 2009 and raised over $3,000.
The convention was held at George R. Brown Convention Center and Hilton Americas in 2007. Anime Matsuris 2008, 2009, 2010, and 2012 were held at the Woodlands Waterway Marriott Hotel and Convention Center, and Anime Matsuri 2011 was held at the Crowne Plaza Houston Hotel near Reliant Park/Medical Center. Anime Matsuri 2013 was held at Hyatt Regency Houston. The Syfy reality series Heroes of Cosplay filmed the masquerade at Anime Matsuri and was featured in an episode. The convention in 2014 moved to the George R. Brown Convention Center. Complaints about the 2014 convention included long lines and delays. Despite the issues, the 2014 convention became the 9th largest North American anime convention. The convention in 2015 remained at the George R. Brown Convention Center and used the first and most of the second floors. The 2015 convention became the 8th largest North American anime convention.
After Anime Matsuri 2015, John Leigh, the conventions event manager was accused of sexual harassment by several members of the Lolita fashion community. Significant financial improprieties have also been alleged against the convention organizers. In May 2016, Anime Matsuri announced that the former CEO of Anime Expo, Marc Perez would join the convention as COO.
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