Sakura-Con took over downtown Seattle once again, bringing together thousands of anime fans, artists, and cosplayers for a vibrant three-day celebration of Japanese pop culture. For many, it was a weekend full of firsts, lasting memories, and meaningful connections.

“Sakura-Con was my first convention as well as my first time ever cosplaying,” Lien Hollenback said. “I expected not a lot of people, but everyone to be in cosplay. I was shocked by the sheer amount of people that attended the convention on all three days. I was also surprised by the quality and quantity of cosplays as well as people who were not in cosplay.” Although nervous on the first day, she quickly got into the spirit of things, exploring the artist alley, helping a shy friend ask for cosplay photos, and eventually taking part in the popular ribbon rally. “At the end of the day, we all took off our cosplays and makeup and sat around to show our goods that we bought. It was enjoyable to see what people spent their money on and why. Overall, this experience was very fun, and I would love to do it again next year,” said Hollenback.

For Chloe Lee, Sakura-Con was about much more than the panels and merchandise, it was about the people. “I loved Sakura-Con so much. It really helped me bond more with my friends, and getting ready together was a wonderful experience. I think my favorite part of it was when we helped each other out, like when shopping, adjusting each other’s cosplays, or helping get ready. Those intimate moments really showed that we cared about each other. It was a great event to grow closer with present friends and make new ones as well, because of all the fun and unique people you’re able to meet. Overall, 10/10, I would go again,” Lee said.

Tanner Lee shared the chaotic but hilarious experience of attending with a group of 11. “We went in a group of 11, if you didn’t know, and it was really chaotic trying to plan it out. We went to my house to dress up and do makeup before hopping into my dad’s Sprinter van to go to Sakura-Con. It was lively in the morning, then we brainrotted at night because we were so tired.” Tanner spent most of his time shopping at the exhibitor’s hall and artist alley, watching AMVs, and playing rare Japanese arcade games. “It’s where I spent my life savings on posters that I definitely needed,” he joked. He also recalled spotting some amazing cosplays. “We saw a really rare cosplayer from Wuthering Waves… and we most regret seeing because none of us decided to take a photo with her (even more regrettable for Ethan).”

Kiefer Karyadi appreciated the cultural energy that filled the city during the con. “Well, at the event right, there was a lot of cosplay, so it was very different than just like every day. You could just walk around the streets, and there would just be a cosplayer sitting there. It was really interesting because it’s like, woah, I know that character, and you could just get a picture with them. It was really nice to see everyone putting in so much effort and doing all these cool things. I think the culture part of it too, there was a Japanese artist, Reol, who did a live concert which was really cool to see.”

Sakura-Con 2025 was an unforgettable weekend full of creativity, laughter, and new connections. Whether it was getting lost in the artist alley, sharing cosplay moments with friends, or just soaking in the unique atmosphere, the event left everyone with memories they won’t forget. For first-timers and seasoned attendees alike, Sakura-Con proved to be a special place where people come together to celebrate what they love.