A Guide to the Best Anime Conventions for Car Enthusiasts in 2024

Introduction

For fans of both anime and car culture, anime conventions are a unique opportunity to experience the best of both worlds. It’s not uncommon to find custom Itasha cars with anime-inspired wraps and see passionate fans connecting over shared interests in Japanese culture, car mods, and creativity. If you’re looking to explore this crossover culture firsthand, here’s your guide to the top anime conventions in 2024 that offer something special for car enthusiasts. Get ready to immerse yourself in a world where cars meet characters, and creativity knows no bounds.

1. Anime Matsuri – Houston, TX

Date: August 8-11, 2024
Location: George R. Brown Convention Center

Highlights:

• Anime Matsuri is one of the biggest anime conventions in the U.S., and it’s a top destination for those interested in the Itasha scene. The event hosts a dedicated Itasha car display, showcasing vehicles with elaborate anime wraps and custom designs.
• Beyond the cars, the convention features cosplay contests, artist alley, and exclusive panels—perfect for car lovers who appreciate creativity and artistry in all forms.

Why It’s Ideal for Car Enthusiasts: With its large-scale Itasha display and strong JDM community presence, Anime Matsuri is a must-visit for car enthusiasts who also love anime. This convention is an opportunity to see how fandom meets craftsmanship in the world of Itasha.

2. Tokyo in Tulsa – Tulsa, OK

Date: July 11-14, 2024
Location: Hyatt Regency & Cox Business Convention Center

Highlights:

• Tokyo in Tulsa is a fan-favorite anime convention with a diverse range of programming. The convention includes an Itasha car show where attendees can check out anime-wrapped cars in vibrant designs.
• Known for its welcoming and community-centered vibe, this convention is ideal for car enthusiasts who want a close-knit, interactive experience with other fans.

Why It’s Ideal for Car Enthusiasts: Tokyo in Tulsa provides a unique platform for car enthusiasts to display their work and connect with anime fans in an approachable, engaging environment. It’s the perfect mix of fan culture and car passion, making it a memorable stop for JDM lovers.

3. Anime Expo – Los Angeles, CA

Date: July 4-7, 2024
Location: Los Angeles Convention Center

Highlights:

• Anime Expo, the largest anime convention in North America, draws fans from all over the country. While primarily an anime convention, it also features a notable presence of fan-modified cars and anime-themed wraps.
• With one of the largest artist alleys and endless merch booths, there’s plenty of inspiration for those interested in anime-meets-car culture.

Why It’s Ideal for Car Enthusiasts: The sheer size and diversity of Anime Expo make it a great destination for car enthusiasts who also love anime. It’s a place to find inspiration for your next Itasha project or simply appreciate the crossover between anime and car mod culture.

4. Anime NYC – New York, NY

Date: November 15-17, 2024
Location: Javits Center

Highlights:

• Anime NYC may not be car-centric, but it’s gaining popularity among Itasha enthusiasts who bring their anime-wrapped vehicles to the event. Fans can see a handful of impressive cars alongside cosplayers and vendors.
• The convention is known for bringing anime creators and artists directly from Japan, offering attendees a firsthand look at the latest trends in anime culture.

Why It’s Ideal for Car Enthusiasts: Anime NYC provides a fresh perspective on anime-inspired car culture, making it worth a visit for car fans looking to connect with the broader anime scene. It’s a great place to explore new design ideas and interact with artists who inspire the community.

5. Otakon – Washington, D.C.

Date: August 2-4, 2024
Location: Walter E. Washington Convention Center

Highlights:

• Otakon is a major East Coast anime event that appeals to a wide variety of fans, including those interested in Japanese car culture. The convention occasionally features Itasha cars, and fans can expect creative cosplay, fan art, and displays that inspire crossover interest.
• Otakon is celebrated for its panels and workshops, which dive into various aspects of Japanese pop culture, appealing to car fans who enjoy the anime side of the spectrum.

Why It’s Ideal for Car Enthusiasts: For JDM fans with a love for Japanese culture, Otakon offers a great mix of anime and potential car culture inspiration. It’s an exciting, lively event that’s worth attending for anyone passionate about both worlds.

6. Supercon – Miami, FL

Date: July 6-8, 2024
Location: Miami Beach Convention Center

Highlights:

• Florida Supercon combines all things pop culture, including anime, comics, and gaming, and it’s increasingly welcoming to the Itasha car scene. Car enthusiasts can find a growing number of anime-wrapped cars on display, adding a new dimension to this diverse event.
• The convention’s high-energy atmosphere and tropical Miami setting make it a unique experience for those looking to see anime and car culture converge.

Why It’s Ideal for Car Enthusiasts: Supercon is a great convention for anime fans with a love for cars, offering a bit of everything. The Itasha cars and diverse fan base make it a fun and memorable stop for those interested in anime-inspired vehicles.

Conclusion

For car enthusiasts who are also anime fans, these conventions offer the best of both worlds. From detailed Itasha displays to community-driven gatherings, these events celebrate the creativity and passion that make car and anime cultures so exciting. As Import Crate, we’re proud to support this growing crossover culture with products that speak to both JDM and anime fandoms. Explore our online store to find accessories and collectibles that let you express your love for both, or visit us at select conventions where car meets anime.