Over 20,000 individuals from around the world swarmed the 18th annual Sakuracon in spectacular costumes on April 3 to 5 at the Washington State Convention Center in Seattle. Many cosplayers slaved away for hours sewing and assembling to make sure their costumes were perfect. This convention consisted of Anime theaters, gaming, cosplay, cultural panels, dances, concerts, and more. There were over 100,000 square feet of exhibit halls. Sakura-Con is the northwest’s oldest and largest anime, manga (comics), gaming, and Asian culture convention. Hosted by the Asia Northwest Cultural Education Association, a 501(c)(3) non profit, Sakura-Con began in 1998 as a small, three-day event, a party for anime fans at the Double Tree Inn, in Tukwila Washington. The convention has grown dramatically over the years in terms of size and mission.
It is operated by a 100% all-volunteer staff. It is the oldest and most well attended anime convention in the Pacific Northwest. (end)