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Was a specific date and time confirmed? I know Friday was insinuated but I didn't notice a time frame. I was interested in stopping by.

I have left some business cards myself just in passing on those tables without prior notice and I have seen many others leave their own pamphlets and flyers, so I don't believe there is a specific policy, application or fee to leave postcards, etc. I would imagine they might have a Volunteer watching over those tables if there was a strong concern.

I do hope you find other Cosplayers to join in on your group however this post is better suited for the "Cosplay! Construction, Tips, Gatherings, Advice" Board: http://forums.fanime.com/index.php/board,30.0.html

This Board is for general meetings and social gatherings. There is a stickied thread at the top you may want to read: http://forums.fanime.com/index.php/topic,12209.0.html

Im sure you'll have better luck in a place more qualified for your request!

I can honestly say I am hyped for this year's Fanime! I understand there may be a lack of desired Guests however in my opinion I believe this convention is more than that. I've always felt that Fanime was a gathering of like minded masses with similar interests, who come together to share in the love for those interests through social interaction!

It's like a giant hang out where you can attend a panel on how to style wigs and learn that person next to you was having trouble designing the same type of spikes you were and where you can sing your heart out during open karaoke with your Friends without public criticism, even if you feel like you suck! You can dance the night away with your friends to the sounds of great DJs and gather in amazement at the hard work and effort put in by some spectacular Cosplay at the Masquerade. Maybe you'll find yourself in a Room Party laughing about the good times you've had or if you're like me, and can never sleep, the conversations to be had with a complete stranger at 3am in front of the Arcade, over which Gundam series really did it for you, it's all priceless.

I think the amalgam of these experiences really make the convention for me and by no means am I saying that no one else here has not considered these alternatives or that these options are an excuse for circumstance but the camaraderie I feel during those 4 days in May is like nothing else and it keeps me coming back year after year and Ive been attending since the Santa Clara Convention Center in 2003 however I may be showing my age now, haha. I'm sure in time everyone's concerns will be heard and action will be taken but in the mean time, I'm sure you'll create positive experiences to remember!

The rollaway bed is not overly small however it would be a tight fit for two people. Its just slightly larger than a twin size bed in my opinion. Comfort level is decent, there's no box spring of course, so the support is slightly lacking but the metal frame helps alleviate any arching.

It appears they updated the 2014 Registration FAQ and listed the hours for badge pickup:

Location
FanimeCon
San Jose Convention Center
150 W San Carlos St, San Jose, CA 95113
Lower level rooms in the new expansion

Clockwork Alchemy
Doubletree Hotel
2050 Gateway Plaza, San Jose, CA 95110

Hours
Thursday: 3pm – 8pm
Friday: 8am – 7pm
Saturday: 8am – 7pm
Sunday: 8am – 7pm
Monday: 8am – 12pm
*Hours are subject to change without notice

I'll be coming as the original M. Bison. This should be fun!

Schedule permitting, I'll be attending as Wolverine, original comic version and my vote is for 1pm which was last year's time. I'm sure it will be another great gathering!

The point being is that, while Fanime may be an anime/manga-themed convention, the motto has always been By Fans For Fans.  If the fans are into other stuff besides anime and manga and want to show their love for those things at the same convention, who really has the right to say otherwise?  All it comes down to is some fans indulging in nerdrage and drawing lines that really shouldn't be there, since all they do is divide fans against each other.

I couldn't agree more! We as a fan based community should strive for tolerance and acceptance, regardless of the group or culture. I firmly believe that if one wants to see more "anime" or any particular genre related cosplay, media, etc, then take the initiative and create it! We are all capable of creating greatness, why depend on someone else for it?

This already sounds like its going to be a success! Even though Saturday is jam packed, I will try and stop by for a drink!

In years past Ive personally seen people line up 2-3 hours prior to the official time they start processing. I'll be making an effort to get there an hour or two before it starts. Im not so hardcore as to show up at 12PM, haha.

7-10PM is the official statement however I believe with the move to the Fairmont and improved preparations, the Registration Pick Up process will have improved ten fold when compared to last year. I also believe this really will accommodate those who may not be available until the early evening due to other responsibilities like work, school, etc. Additionally, Ive never seen any staff turn away anyone who was already in line even after the cut off time. These guys work hard to get everyone in and out, I've heard it's tiring work!

I can understand your concerns but even the the wait in line can be fun! You get to meet new people, catch up with a buddy and sometimes game network if you have the same game and portable console as another!

My Girl and I are planning on going! I produce myself, so it's good to be swept up in the moment every now and again after hours in the home studio. The creation process is something else but the moment you hear that synth kick in and that bass drop over the loud speaker, it's other worldly.

Literally, down the street, I live in Downtown. And even with this being the case, I'm still staying at the Marriott for the full Con experience. Nothing like getting up after a fun filled night with your friends and having breakfast with those same friends. Or if you're like me, you might just go through the whole night right into breakfast!

Don't forget some of our hometown favorites fast food joints like La Victorias (La Vic's for short) for an awesome and inexpensive burrito. Or if youre lucky, you can score a Korrito (Korean Burrito with bulgolgi) from the Mogos Food Truck if it stops by again this year! ;)

How would you guys feel about someone playing J-Rock and video game songs on electric guitar
(accompanied by the mp3s) at around midnight?

It would probably be a welcomed event by most as long as you are not so loud that you are considered a disturbance and you are not using convention center power (prohibited last I checked).

This sounds interesting and while living in downtown San Jose for some time, I have become familiar with most of these places. I can offer some feedback:

1. Dive Bar
- The crowds are "eclectic" to say the least but I will admit the only time I've ever visited, the atmosphere was a bit "dark." Music is fairly loud when the DJ is playing, so unless you plan on yelling, conversations may be limited. Basic Bar and stool setup with some tables.

2. Tanq in Marriott
- This place is located right in the Lobby area of the Marriot, slightly smaller than most others but the Bar area is surrounded by big open areas of glass that expose the outside area, making it look larger. It has some lounge style seats in the corner rear area and the music is a standard top 40 mix of mashups and remixes. This is going to be the place where most Con Attendees of drinking age (who drink) will be. Its comfortable, convenient (located right in the Con) and The Fish Bowl (also known as the "Kiss The Fish" drink) is a fun 2 or more drink that you can share with multiple people.

3. San Jose Bar & Grill
- Great place to go on a Friday or Saturday night if youre looking for a lively crowd. Sports oriented most nights with the big screens playing the game or fight of choice. There is a small dance floor and on Fridays and Saturdays the DJ is usually spinning top 40. A bit of a walk from the convention center but a little loud for conversations and introductions.

4. South First Billiards
- If youre looking for a very relaxing night shooting pool and neandering around, this isn't a bad spot. Music is on a Jukebox most of the time and the drinks are simple, its more of a Beer option in my opinion. A bit of a walk as well with a more "mature" atmosphere.

5. 4th St Pizza
- A mainstream eatery if you will and sports oriented for the most part. A basic pizza joint for college kids looking for beer pong and basic convo. Not a bad choice if you dont mind the walk.

6. Gordon Biersch
- As the name infers, they do serve alcohol but it's definitely a Brewery and Restaraunt combo. Good for sit downs and dining with a beer but it's not what I would consider "lively for youths."

7. Flames Eatery & Bar
- Flames is definitely a place to check out if youre looking for a active social atmosphere coupled with food and an array of acoholic options. It is a sit down style restaraunt but it does have a bar. Music is usually fairly loud even though it is a restaraunt but not too bad. Alot of party kids preparing for the club usually or looking to hang out before the next event in the evening. Younger crowd, usually College kids. No dress code but you may find a few people dressed up in preparation for a night on the town.

8. Los Gatos Brewing Co.
- Like Gordon Biersch but they're hometown heroes, restaraunt/brewery combo. A bit far for my taste if your looking for a bar. It's okay but if you're looking for shots and a party atmosphere, this isnt the place.

9. Lounge in The Fairmont
- I've had a drink here before but it's kind of expensive because they're catering to travelers and looking to maintain an "upscale" image. Even during Con season, it's less than lively for the younger crowd but can still be cool to try out. For what you are looking to accomplish with this meetup, I would'nt recommend it as a first choice but maybe "Plan C."

There you have it but these are only my personal opinions and observations. Everyone is different and some of these places may be right up some of your alleys but I tried to keep things in a general review style format. My personal choice would be "Tanq" in the Marriott based on its location, atmosphere and selection.

I don't know if I can make this event but it looks like you guys are getting a pretty decent crowd. I'm sure it will be fun!

I plan on attending as Dr. Bruce Banner, original comic version. I'm fairly stoked about this gathering and hope to contribute!

I'll be cosplaying as Shining Armor, the "Canterlot Wedding" Version. I'm sure this will be great fun!

In the general hotel block area, it's not too bad. The walk from Convention Center to the Fairmont is fairly safe given the circumstances and the area at that time. I would be more concerned when walking across the street toward the St. Claire Hotel and beyond. The walk across the street is perfectly fine and the St. Claire Hotel is a classy place however it's when you walk past that area. Once you pass the restaraunt "Original Joe's" in my opinion, the crowd can become rambunctious. This is because the area is full of fast food places and eateries, popular with the downtown crowd after a night of bar hopping or clubbing and San Jose State students looking to kill time or hang out in the late night.

It's not what I would call exactly unsafe but rather, to put it nicely, there are typically alot of gentleman callers that occupy that area who are rather boisterous when attempting to compliment the female persuasion. I would recommend the buddy system whenever possible while walking around late at night but there should be quite a few of your peers, just like you, looking to get a bite to eat or find their hotel. As previously stated, remain alert and I would not worry too much.