Everything You Need To Know About Anime Boston

Yet another Anime Boston has come and gone. If you missed this year’s anime convention and are thinking about attending next year here are a few helpful tips.
Get Your Tickets Early
Anime Boston is a very popular convention and tickets cover Friday-Sunday. Get your tickets as soon as possible to make sure you have a spot. I bought my tickets four months in advance.

Pace Yourself
It’s a big con and can be overwhelming. Remember that you have a three-day pass and you can exit the con at any time to get some fresh air. There’s a lot to see, so make sure to prioritize any panels or events you know you want to attend. I devoted one day to shopping, one day for panels, and one day for socializing. Also, if you want to attend the 18+ panels in the evening, it’s better to show up later in the day to conserve your energy.

Where To Eat
The meals at Anime Boston are just pricey junk food. There’s no reason to eat inside the con when you can take a short walk to Newbury street.
If you want light Japanese food then check out Wabora or my personal favorite Umai.
Want something more upscale to impress a date?
Have dinner at The Salty Pig for rich Italian flavors, or get upscale Mexican cuisine at Lolita’s.
How awesome would it be to go to Lolita’s in an actual Lolita cosplay?

Be Your Best Self
People are getting better about this, but everyone should be reminded to shower and keep well groomed. Respect your fellow con attendees and always ask to take a photo with cosplayers.
Have Fun
You can empty your wallet in the dealers room, chat up the creators at artist’s alley, play co-op in the gaming center, and take photos with your favorite anime characters.
Follow Up With People
There is a dissonance that comes from being surrounded by people who love anime as much as you do and then being thrust into a world where people think Pokemon is Chinese. If you meet people you like, follow up with them online and in person. Being a geek doesn’t mean you have to be anti-social. Geek culture is slowly becoming pop-culture so enjoy yourself and make new friends.
See you next year!