Now that the San Jose Convention Center’s construction is nothing but a distant and inconvenient blip in FanimeCon’s history, con goers were able to spread their wings a bit and enjoy the more spacious set up outside. The more crowd friendly facade opened up much needed space for many of Fanime’s large fan-gatherings (i.e. League Of Legends and Jo-Jo’s Bizarre Adventure), without having to severely plug up the flow of traffic outside of the convention. A very nice surprise this Fanime was the lack of the ungodly long registration lines! The convention has streamlined their system, by allocating a large INDOOR space for registration this year…that means no waiting outside in the elements for your badge while being honked at by random, slightly sketchy, motorist or picket wielding religious fanatics.
Panels & Gaming Room
The convention’s slogan, “By Fans, For Fans”, is still holding strong today. If you’ve ever attended a convention that is severely lacking on entertaining fan panels and informative workshops, then I suppose its time for you to make Fanime a must. Whether you’re looking for 
humorous entertainment or a workshop to help you make awesome armor, Fanime is in no short supply on geeky entertainment. If panels aren’t your thing and you’d rather spend you time in a sea of games and tournaments, the conventions game room is definitely worth a visit.
Vendor Hall & Artist Alley
With wide walkways and clear signage posted through out sale spaces, the vendor hall and artist alley is pretty much a breeze to walk through. Both spaces offer top notch products and art at very competitive prices. The artist alley seemed to contain the some of best artists from all over the US, including HamletMachine, the creator of the popular web comic Starfighter.
Beyond Fanime
Food
When you arrive in Downtown San Jose, it’s easy to see why convention goers continually rave about Fanime’s location. There is a massive variety of eateries scattered throughout the immediate area surrounding the convention and all are within a reasonable walking distance. Hot spots such as Thirst Tea and Psycho Donuts proudly display nerdy art, figures, and edible products, all while providing their costume clad patrons with upbeat and attentive service.
Hotels
Hotels such as the Fairmont and San Jose Marriott do an outstanding job catering to the needs of their geeky clientele, and are usually more than willing to allow cosplayers the opportunity to have their photos taken in the glitzy backdrops spread through out the hotels…well if the photo session doesn’t cause major obstruction of hotel foot traffic, of course. Whether you attend Fanime for the location, food or friends, this con has something for you. See you guys at Fanime 2016!
