Big Apple Anime Fest

Name: Big Apple Anime Fest
Start: 2001
End: 2003
Location: New York City

New York's Premier Anime Festival (2001-2003)

History

The Big Apple Anime Fest (BAAF) emerged as New York City's premier anime celebration from 2001 to 2003, marking a significant milestone in East Coast anime convention history. Originally conceived as an extension of the successful Big Apple Manga events of the late 1990s, BAAF quickly evolved into something much larger.

Origins & Evolution

Starting as the Big Apple Fest in early 2001, the convention found its identity by combining elements of the Brooklyn Anime Fest scene with the mainstream appeal of Manhattan venues. The strategic decision to expand from manga-only events to a full-scale anime convention proved revolutionary for the East Coast convention circuit.

Times Square Connection

In 2002, BAAF made headlines by bringing Times Square anime culture to the forefront, with massive video displays featuring anime content and cosplayers gathering in the heart of New York City. This marked the first time anime culture received such prominent visibility in Manhattan's entertainment district.

Cultural Impact

The festival bridged the gap between the Brooklyn anime fest community and Manhattan's entertainment scene, creating a unified celebration of Japanese pop culture that attracted fans from across the tri-state area and beyond. It set the standard for future anime conventions in the region.

BAAF Memory Lane

Relive the magic of past Big Apple Anime Fests through these memorable moments.

Cosplay Contest Finals 2001

Industry Panel with Special Guests 2002

Main Exhibition Hall 2003

The Future of BAAF

Exciting news! Geek Extreme, a leading geek culture website, is spearheading an initiative to revive the Big Apple Anime Fest for a new generation of fans. With the exponential growth of anime culture in New York City, from Times Square anime advertising to Brooklyn's thriving manga shops, the timing couldn't be better.

Our vision includes bringing back the best elements of the original BAAF while incorporating modern convention features. We're exploring venues that could accommodate both the intimate feel of the Big Apple Manga gatherings and the grand scale of Times Square anime events.

As Geek Extreme leads this revival effort, we're looking to gather support from the anime community. Your enthusiasm and backing will be crucial in bringing this beloved festival back to New York City!

Email Us About the Revival

Past Notable Guests

Yoshiyuki Tomino

Creator of Mobile Suit Gundam

BAAF 2002 Guest of Honor

Shinichiro Watanabe

Director of Cowboy Bebop

BAAF 2003 Special Guest

Masashi Kishimoto

Creator of Naruto

BAAF 2003 Guest of Honor

Event Highlights

2001

Inaugural festival at Madison Square Garden
Over 5,000 attendees
First East Coast premiere of Spirited Away

2002

Expanded to three-day format
Introduction of gaming tournament
Record-breaking cosplay competition

2003

Multiple venue expansion
Industry awards ceremony
Farewell convention

Frequently Asked Questions

Why did BAAF end in 2003?

The festival concluded due to various factors including increasing operational costs and changes in the anime convention landscape in the Northeast region.

Are there plans to bring BAAF back?

We're currently gauging interest and exploring possibilities for a revival. Show your support by contacting us!

Where was BAAF held?

The festival was primarily held at Madison Square Garden and surrounding venues in Manhattan, New York City.

What made BAAF special?

BAAF was one of the first major anime conventions in NYC, featuring exclusive premieres, industry guests, and being accessible to fans from across the tri-state area.

How can I support the revival?

Email us at [email protected], spread the word on social media, and sign up for our newsletter for updates.