Crunchyroll Begins Third Annual Ani-May Celebration with Worldwide Activities, Exclusive Merchandise, and Complimentary Streaming

Anime aficionados globally have a reason to rejoice this May as Crunchyroll unveils its third annual Ani-May celebration. This month-long event is a worldwide homage to anime culture, showcasing a diverse range of activities through retail, digital platforms, and streaming services. From exclusive merchandise and in-store happenings to complimentary anime streaming and gaming content, Ani-May 2024 is set to be the most significant celebration yet for anime fans.

Worldwide Celebration of Anime Culture

Ani-May, brought to you by Crunchyroll, officially launched this week with festivities covering North America, Europe, Asia, and more. This event unites some of the most cherished anime titles, such as Solo Leveling, Kaiju No. 8, Bananya, Toilet-bound Hanako-kun, and Spy x Family. Crunchyroll has collaborated with key retailers, digital platforms, and pop culture brands to offer a truly engaging anime experience.

Retail Collaborations and In-Store Activities

A standout feature of Ani-May 2024 is the partnership with well-known retailers such as UNIQLO, Hot Topic, Barnes & Noble, and Best Buy.

– UNIQLO: Customers making qualifying online UT purchases will earn a 30-day free trial to Crunchyroll. Furthermore, UNIQLO’s flagship stores in New York City will showcase exclusive UTme! designs by manga artist Remi Yamamoto. Fans will also have the chance to meet Yamamoto in person and obtain live manga portraits on May 18 at the Fifth Avenue store.

– Hot Topic: This retailer is launching exclusive anime merchandise, unique promotions, and themed displays across its locations in the U.S. and Canada, in addition to online offerings.

– Barnes & Noble: Anime lovers can seize home video deals on DVDs and Blu-rays throughout the month of May.

– Best Buy: Shoppers who buy select anime products will receive an exclusive Spy x Family pin, available in-store and online.

– Planet Hollywood: The famed restaurant chain is participating in the festivities with anime-themed experiences, cocktails, menu items, and merchandise inspired by Ani-May titles.

Pop Culture Partnerships

Funko, famous for its collectible Pop! figures, is also partaking in the celebrations. On May 3, Funko will host an autograph signing event featuring the English voice cast of Jujutsu Kaisen to commemorate the debut of a new Jujutsu Kaisen Funko Pop! collection.

In gaming, Fall Guys is introducing limited-time Bananya-themed skins, which include Bananya and Droopy Eared Bananya, available from May 1 to May 8.

Streaming and Digital Exclusives

Crunchyroll is offering fans additional ways to enjoy anime from their homes. Starting May 1, the platform will make 20 popular anime series available for free streaming with ads. This initiative allows both new and veteran fans to navigate various genres and titles without needing a subscription.

In addition, the Crunchyroll Store has launched a new collectible: the SteelNook. This premium display case, crafted from SteelBook material, is designed to hold up to four standard SteelBooks. Pre-orders for the SteelNook are already in progress.

Crunchyroll’s Game Vault will be open throughout May as well, introducing new anime-themed games each week to celebrate Ani-May.

Interactive Quizzes and Global Activities

To assist fans in discovering perfect merchandise, Crunchyroll’s website will feature interactive quizzes based on individual anime tastes. These quizzes aim to enrich the shopping experience and help users uncover new series they may love.

Beyond North America, Crunchyroll is organizing various regional events, meet-ups, and collaborations. Fans can visit the official Ani-May 2024 news page for a comprehensive list of global activities and announcements.

A Month of Anime Delight

With its extensive array of events, partnerships, and digital content, Ani-May 2024 is poised to be a landmark celebration for anime enthusiasts everywhere. Whether you’re hunting for exclusive merchandise, taking part in in-person events, or streaming your favorite series, Crunchyroll’s Ani-May has something for every anime lover.

For additional details and a complete event schedule, visit Crunchyroll’s official Ani-May page.