Anime Lubbock has pulled the plug on its 2025 event.

In the past, the popular hotel convention featured guest celebrity voice actors from anime series, K-Pop performances, vendors, artists, discussion panels, cosplay contests, an anime rave, and more.

It was held at MCM Elegante (801 Avenue Q) which provided special room rates for attendees who wanted to make an entire vacation out of the event- and provided specialty anime-themed cocktails.

All this is to say is that Anime Lubbock was fun and I enjoyed every year I attended. I hope it makes a comeback in 2026.

Why Did Anime Lubbock Cancel?

In an email sent to artists and exhibitors, Anime Lubbock cited competition and considerations about the Lubbock market in its decision:

A local competitor has recently announced a new strategy to feature the same type of celebrity guests we have historically showcased at Anime Lubbock, including multiple voice actors who have previously appeared at our event. Their event is scheduled just three months prior to Anime Lubbock, and we have determined that the market cannot sustain two nearly identical events in such close proximity.

 

Artists/ Exhibitors were then given the option to choose a refund for their table fees or to "roll over" their fees to Bomb City Con, a similar event that is held in Amarillo from March 1-2, 2025. 

While this is unfortunate for anime fans in Lubbock and in the surrounding area, hopefully, this presents an opportunity for Anime Lubbock to regroup and come back bigger and better than ever in 2026.