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2026 Sanrio Character Awards Kick Off!

Sanrio Co., Ltd. announced the commencement of the much-anticipated "2026 Sanrio Character Awards" on April 9th, 2026. For fans of adorable characters, this is the event that brings together over 450 beloved figures from the Sanrio universe to vie for the top spot in popularity. An exciting aspect of this year is the introduction of new voting categories and methods designed to enhance the experience for participants.

The annual Sanrio Character Awards, which began in 1986 through 'Ichigo Shimbun,' allows fans to vote for their favorite characters, with this year featuring 90 characters up for consideration. Alongside the traditional voting, a new "Happilina Friends" department has been introduced, focusing on fostering joy and interaction among fans and the characters.

At this year's event, voters can engage with two unique games reflecting this year's theme, "Smiling Ovation!" The games, named "Chiratto☆Character Hide-and-Seek" and "Deliver☆Cheer Shoot," encourage participants to cheer for their favorite characters in a playful manner. The event aims to create a supportive atmosphere where characters and fans uplift each other.

How to Vote

Voting is open from April 9 to May 24, 2026, providing a perfect window for fans to express their support. Different voting methods include:

1. Online Voting: Participants can vote once daily for their selected characters through the official voting site.
2. Sanrio Store Votes: Shopping at Sanrio locations allows for additional votes, which count as triple when purchasing over a designated amount.
3. Ichigo Shimbun Voting Cards: Cards included in the May and June editions of 'Ichigo Shimbun' enable votes to be cast via mail.
4. Exclusive Member Voting: Members of "Sanrio+" can utilize accrued smilies to make their votes count more significantly.

A Glimpse at Previous Winners

Returning competitors from last year's top five, including Pompompurin, Cinnamoroll, Pochacco, Kuromi, and Hello Kitty, have shared messages of enthusiasm and encouragement, connecting with fans through heartwarming comments as they seek to climb the ranking once more.

New Awards for 2026

This year's event introduces special categories such as the "41st Anniversary Award" for the character that ranks 41st, the "Jump-Up Award" for incredible upward movement in ranks, and the “Friendly Cheer Award” that celebrates characters uplifted through fans voting together. Excitement also mounts around a prediction campaign where participants who guess the recipients of the special awards could win a limited-edition mirror!

A Unique Showcase at the Sanrio Exhibition

In conjunction with this vibrant event, the "Sanrio Exhibition FINAL ver." will feature a space dedicated to the character awards. Visitors can engage with a 100-question quiz focused on Sanrio characters, merging education with entertainment amidst an atmosphere celebrating kawaii culture.

Final Thoughts

The 2026 Sanrio Character Awards not only mark a celebration of beloved characters but also embody a platform of connection between fans and the Sanrio universe. With easier voting methods and engaging interactive elements, the event promises to be more inclusive and fun than ever before. Voting runs until May 24, culminating in a grand announcement at the Sanrio Festival on June 28, 2026, at Pacifico Yokohama. So gather your friends and join in on the fun—your favorite character needs your support!

For more details, visit the official voting site: Sanrio Voting. And don’t forget to engage with the new games to express your cheer for your favorites!