Anime Weekend Atlanta facts for kids

Anime Weekend Atlanta (AWA) is a super fun, four-day event that happens every year. It's a huge gathering for fans of anime (Japanese animation) and manga (Japanese comics). This exciting convention takes place in September or October in Atlanta, Georgia. You can find it at the Renaissance Waverly Hotel, the Cobb Galleria Centre, and the Sheraton Suites Galleria. AWA is the biggest anime convention in the Southeastern United States!

What Happens at AWA?

Anime Weekend Atlanta is packed with activities for everyone. The convention runs for 24 hours a day, so there's always something to do! Here are some of the cool things you can enjoy:

• Anime Music Video (AMV) Contest: See creative videos made by fans using clips from anime set to music.
• Artists' Alley: Meet talented artists and buy their original artwork, prints, and crafts.
• Concerts: Enjoy live music performances, often by artists who create songs for anime.
• Costume Contest: Show off your amazing cosplay (dressing up as characters) or watch others compete.
• Dances: Dance the night away with fellow fans.
• Dealer's Room: Shop for all kinds of anime and manga merchandise, figures, and collectibles.
• Fashion Show: See unique and creative outfits, sometimes inspired by Japanese street fashion.
• Formal Ball: A chance to dress up fancy and dance in a more formal setting.
• Game Shows: Play fun, interactive games with other attendees.
• Karaoke: Sing your favorite anime theme songs or popular tunes.
• Maid Cafe: Experience a themed cafe where servers dress as maids or butlers.
• Panels: Attend discussions and Q&A sessions with voice actors, artists, and industry guests.
• Gaming: Play role-playing games, tabletop games, and video games.
• Workshops: Learn new skills, like how to draw manga or make costumes.

AWA's Story

Anime Weekend Atlanta has grown a lot since it first started. Here's a quick look at some interesting moments:

• Early Days: The convention began in 1995.
• AMV Popularity: The Anime Music Video contest became very popular. In 2001, it had over 200 entries, and by 2003, it had more than 300 entries and lasted over three hours!
• Growing Space: The Dealer's Room, where you can buy cool stuff, grew to be very large. In 2007, it covered 72,000 square feet!
• Big News: In 2008, Cartoon Network announced the end of its popular Toonami block during a panel at AWA.
• Guest Challenges: Sometimes, guests face challenges. In 2015, the band Loverin Tamburin couldn't come to the convention because of visa issues.
• Recent Events: Anime Weekend Atlanta 2020 had to be cancelled because of the COVID-19 pandemic.