Get ready Southern California! Chaos Creators, the organizers behind popular local pop-up events, are thrilled to announce their first large-scale celebration of queer-centric anime and community: the Niji Festival! This vibrant one-day event promises a welcoming and supportive space for fans of all kinds to connect, celebrate, and geek out together on Saturday, May 17, 2025, at the Almond Haus Cafe in Claremont.
Building on Past Success, Fostering Community, A Safe Haven in a Challenging Climate
Known for fostering inclusive and enthusiastic environments at their previous smaller gatherings, Chaos Creators is now bringing their vision to a wider audience. The excitement is palpable within the local community, eager for events that champion inclusivity and celebrate diverse fandoms.
In a time where the rights to love freely feel increasingly threatened across the nation and marginalized communities face daily challenges, the Niji Festival offers a vital sanctuary. Organizers emphasize the importance of creating spaces where individuals feel safe, seen, and celebrated for who they are and what they love. This festival is designed to be just that – a judgment-free zone where attendees can revel in their passions, forge new friendships, and find solidarity within a like-minded community.
From Shared Passion to Real-World Connection
What began with a shared passion for the queer-inclusive anime “Sk8 the Infinity” has blossomed into a powerful desire to create real-world connections. While online spaces offer valuable interactions, the Niji Festival aims to bring the unique joy of in-person enthusiasm to life – the shared gasps over fanfiction reveals, the admiration for intricate cosplay, and the simple pleasure of connecting face-to-face with fellow fans.
Attendees can look forward to a packed day of activities, including cosplay meetups, opportunities to meet and greet renowned voice talents and special guests, a marketplace brimming with local artists’ creations, hands-on arts and crafts sessions, and engaging panels focused on inclusive content. The celebration will continue into the evening with a lively after-party.
A Day Packed with Exciting Activities, Star-Studded Lineup of Voice Talent
The impressive lineup of voice talent includes:
- Ry McKeand, known for their roles as Miya Chinen in “Sk8 the Infinity” and Pica in “One Piece.”
- Howard Wang, the voice behind Langa Hasegawa in “Sk8 the Infinity” and Xie Lian in “Heaven Official’s Blessing.”
- Matt Shipman, celebrated for voicing Reki Kyan in “Sk8 the Infinity” and Rin Itoshi in “BLUE LOCK.”
- Brittany Lauda, recognized for her roles as Renee Costa in “Mobile Suit Gundam: The Witch From Mercury” and Yuzuriha Ogawa in “Dr. STONE.”
- Brian Beacock, the voice of Akutagawa Ryunosuke in “Bungo Stray Dogs” and Yumichika Ayasegawa in “Bleach.”
These talented voice actors will be signing autographs throughout the day and participating in engaging panels. Pricing details for signings will be available on the festival’s website and social media channels.
Welcoming Special Guests
Adding to the excitement, the Niji Festival will also host a fantastic roster of special guests, including:
- Daniel Duenas
- Funhilde
- Captain.Leftovers
- Zombi3cos
- Matthew_aizel
Sip on Themed Delights
To further immerse attendees in the festival’s vibrant atmosphere, a selection of themed drinks will be available, including:
- The Niji: Passionfruit tea with rainbow jelly and strawberry bits.
- Green Yuri Drink: Jasmine green milk tea with regular boba and rainbow jelly.
- Sk8 the Infini-tea: Butterfly pea flower tea and lemonade with red strawberry popping boba and bits.
- Les-be-friends: Rose milk tea with coconut lychee jelly and mango popping boba.
- Later, Slime Boy: Brown sugar milk tea with regular boba and rainbow jelly.
- Shin Souka Souka: Almond milk tea with egg pudding, regular boba, and crystal boba.
Ticket Options to Support the Celebration
Tickets for the Niji Festival are available at various tiers:
- General Admission: $15
- Premium Admission: $35 (Includes exclusive merch and one drink ticket for a themed drink)
- Community Sponsor: $150 (Includes line skips, special badge art, and more to be announced)
Community Sponsors play a vital role in supporting the festival’s mission, and their contribution is deeply appreciated.
Don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity to connect with your community, celebrate your passions, and experience the joy of the inaugural Niji Festival. Mark your calendars for May 17th and head to the Almond Haus Cafe in Claremont for a day filled with fandom, friendship, and fun!
For more information and to purchase tickets, please visit the official Niji Festival website: https://www.nijifest.org/
