Anime los Angeles Convention Celebrates Unique ‘Ribbon Culture’ Built on Kindness
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The anime community began 2026 with a bang as Anime Los Angeles (ALA) opened its doors from January 8-11, offering a vibrant mix of typical convention activities – meet-and-greets, artist alleys, dance parties, cosplay contests, and game areas – alongside a uniquely heartwarming cultural tradition: the exchange of ribbons. This practice, evolving organically over years, has become a defining characteristic of the ALA experience.
The Origins of a Colorful Tradition
What began as a small gesture of goodwill from staff at a modest hotel lobby convention has blossomed into a widespread phenomenon. Initially, staff distributed ribbons for simple acts of kindness, participation in games, or even just a polite request. they also offered “first-time attendee” ribbons as a welcoming gesture. “Staff had different ribbons that they would give out for fun, little games, when attendees were just polite, or you could just go up to them and ask them politely for a ribbon, and they’d be more than happy to give you one,” explained a senior official from ALA.
Though, the culture truly took off when attendees began creating and sharing their own ribbons. This grassroots movement transformed a simple act of generosity into a complex and engaging system of exchange. Now, it’s commonplace for attendees to adorn their badges with elaborate chains of ribbons, each representing a connection or experience.
The Ribbon station: Fostering Accessibility and Growth
Recognizing the growing popularity and complexity of the ribbon culture, ALA established the Ribbon Station approximately eight or nine years ago. The initial setup was modest – a single gatcha machine, a sewing machine, and two staff members – but its purpose was crucial: to make the practice accessible to newcomers. “We wanted to make a table where staff could answer questions and help just make ribbons a little bit more accessible,” a department head explained.
The Ribbon Station provides a space for attendees to trade, repair, and obtain new ribbons, ensuring that everyone can participate in this beloved tradition.The station’s evolution reflects the broader growth of the ribbon culture itself, with increasingly elaborate games and activities designed to encourage engagement. A photo from the event shows a giraffe model displaying a variety of ribbons at the Ribbon Station.
A Culture Rooted in Politeness
At its core, the ribbon culture at ALA is built on a foundation of kindness and respect. The simple act of giving and receiving a ribbon is predicated on politeness,creating a uniquely positive and welcoming atmosphere. “It’s a culture that was really built on being nice and being polite. So that’s the forefront rule: you get rewarded for being nice,” one attendee noted.
This emphasis on positive interaction distinguishes ALA from many other conventions. the culture has evolved over time, with attendees now sporting “massive bins of ribbons” and engaging in increasingly elaborate ribbon-related games. However, the essential principle of rewarding kindness remains constant. “Ther’s still definitely that ‘be nice,’ culture,” a staff member stated.
The Future of the Ribbon Tradition
The ribbon culture at ALA is a testament to the power of organic community building. What began as a small gesture has grown into a defining characteristic of the convention, fostering a sense of belonging and encouraging positive interactions. The convention continues to support and nurture this tradition, recognizing its value in creating a welcoming and enjoyable experience for all attendees. “It is so exciting to see someone get the ribbon they want,playing a game,earning it through ribbon station because they’ve met a certain criteria,” a staff member shared. “Every year, I have to post a public thank you on how nice everyone is, as they make my life easier and they make me have a good time.”
