This dataset encompasses the valid, completed, and qualitative data collected during the 2021 “Survey of Anime Convention Attendance in Response to Covid-19.” This survey was distributed online through social media platforms, community spaces, and industry listservs/resources in order to reach organizers, attendees, and fans of anime conventions (i.e., “cons”). The survey was intended to discover how those who attend anime conventions (i.e., "con-goers") have been experiencing changes in the anime convention scene during the COVID-19 pandemic, particularly in 2020-2021. Traditionally, anime cons and con-related activities such as cosplay (dressing up as a favorite character) are held in person. However, in 2020-2021, most cons have been cancelled or moved online; this is the first time in over 40 years, in the US and worldwide, that the anime convention scene has been so quiet. With this survey, investigators sought to capture firsthand impressions of this unprecedented moment, learning how con-goers were experiencing these changes and whether they had safety or other concerns about anime cons returning in late 2021 and early 2022.
