Anime Expo Chibi will not take place in 2026, according to an announcement from organizer SPJA. The smaller-scale spin-off convention will instead return on October 22–24, 2027, with organizers describing the hiatus as a “planned pause” to focus on making the next event “the biggest and most immersive yet.”
In a statement on the convention’s official page, SPJA explained the decision:
“We’ll be taking a planned pause in 2026 as we focus on creating our most ambitious event yet. Rather than hosting a convention this year, we’re dedicating our time to expanding the fan experience, introducing new programming, strengthening partnerships, and creating even more opportunities for our community. When Anime Expo Chibi returns October 22-24, 2027, it will be our biggest and most immersive event yet.”
The event will remain at the Ontario Convention Center, where it has been held since its launch in 2022.
Since its debut, Anime Expo Chibi has grown into a beloved fan-focused event. The 2025 edition drew 41,000 attendees with over 540 hours of programming, featuring a SPYAIR concert, Chiitan’s rare U.S. appearance, and the debut of immersive cosplay café experiences.
Reviews from the 2025 event praised its intimate, community-driven atmosphere—one attendee called it “the most fun I had at any con in 2025,” highlighting the Senpai Squad’s car culture presence, ProZD’s interactive panel, and the fan-favorite Husbando Café.
While fans will have to wait until 2027 for the next AX Chibi, the organizers are promising a major expansion. For now, Anime Expo 2027 remains scheduled for July 3–6 at the Los Angeles Convention Center.
Source: Reddit
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