Megacon Orlando and AFO organizers cancel their 2020 events

Organizers at Megacon Orlando and Anime Festival Orlando have cancelled their annual events, previously-postponed for late 2020, due to COVID-19.

MegaCon Orlando was first postponed for June 4-7 and once again for October 30 – November 1. Organizers previously said they were working on a guest list and were planning on having it ready by August 1st. On Thursday, the MegaCon Orlando team posted the following on the event’s homepage and its Facebook page:

“In light of COVID-19 developments and our commitment to the safety of our community we have made the difficult decision to cancel MEGACON Orlando: Limited Edition 2020.

Like many of you we had hoped October would be the right time to gather again to celebrate fandom but it has become increasingly clear over the past few weeks that this is not a viable option. We promise to keep working to make 2021 exceptional for you. You deserve the best and we look forward to seeing you next year, March 18-21, 2021, for what will be an awesome MEGACON Orlando.

All tickets will be transferred to 2021 – no action required. If you prefer a refund, check your email for instructions.

Thanks for sticking with us through all of this – you truly are awesome. Between now and when we’re able to gather again to celebrate Fandom in person, keep an eye on your inbox and our social feeds for exciting announcements and surprises.

Stay safe and let’s stick together as a community.

The MEGACON Orlando Team.”

Meanwhile, an announcement appeared on Anime Festival Orlando’s Facebook page explaining its reason for this year’s cancellation.

“We are announcing with heavy hearts that Anime Festival Orlando will not be hosting a convention in 2020.

With cases of COVID-19 on the rise in Florida, we have made the difficult decision to postpone our event until next year, June 25-27, 2021. This was not an easy decision, but we feel it is the best one we could make for the health and safety of our community.

We thank you for your patience and look forward to seeing you next year.”

Purchased tickets this year for both conventions will be automatically transferred for next year’s events, though fans do have the option to request a refund.

[Sources]: @AnimeFestivalOrlando (Facebook): We are announcing with heavy hearts that Anime Festival Orlando will not be hosting a convention in 2020. @MegaconOrlando (Facebook): An update on MEGACON Orlando Limited Edition 2020.