The Highlights of the 2026 Sanrio Character Awards During Sanrio Fest

2026 Sanrio Character Awards Event Report

Sanrio Co., Ltd., based in Shinagawa, Tokyo, hosted a grand event titled "Sanrio Fest 2026 in Minatomirai" on June 27-28. This year marked a historic first as decorations and collaborations spread throughout the Minatomirai station and its surrounding areas, allowing fans to experience the world of Sanrio in various locations. The two-day event attracted over 20,000 visitors and garnered more than 1 million online viewers.

Exciting Results Announcement

On Day 2 of the festival, the main content featured the results of the "2026 Sanrio Character Awards." The rankings were announced from 90th place up, culminating with PomPomPurin securing the top spot for the fifth consecutive year. The venue erupted with cheers and applause as the rankings were revealed, showcasing the love and support fans expressed online.

Additionally, a special stage commemorating the 30th anniversary of PomPomPurin presented a comedic performance titled "PomPomPurin's Comedy: PomPom Panic!" Alongside this, a stage filled with lively celebrations, including the "Everyone’s Roar! Gag Power Stage" and the "SANRIO KAWAII LIVE" featuring Sanrio characters singing and dancing, kept attendees entertained. The venue buzzed with excitement, and the atmosphere was filled with joy from many enthusiastic fans.

The Awards Unfold

During the awards announcement, the excitement was palpable as attendees eagerly awaited the results. Cinnamoroll initially took the lead in the first report, but PomPomPurin, celebrating its 30th anniversary, made a comeback to reclaim first place. Fans crowded the venue, drawn by the thrill of witnessing history in the making. As the top 15 characters were announced, they walked the runway, greeted by roars of appreciation from the crowd, striking poses and bursting with joy.

The top three characters included Pochacco in third place, Cinnamoroll in second, and PomPomPurin in first. Cinnamoroll shared its delight by performing joyful jumps and expressing gratitude to fans, stating, "Wow! Thank you so much for your support! I’m sending you lots of love too!" PomPomPurin expressed immense joy by twirling on stage, stating, "Is it true that I'm in first place again? Yay! Thank you, everyone! I love you all! I’ll send you lots of cheer as well!" The mutual affection between the characters and fans created a warm and touching atmosphere exclusive to the Sanrio Character Awards.

Special Awards and Performances

The "Friendship Award" was given to the characters with the highest voting collaboration, recognizing Pochacco, Pekkle the Duck, and Tuxedo Sam, whose members celebrated this achievement together. In a new category introduced this year, the "2026 Sanrio Character Awards HappyRina Friends" award saw Chocotira sweep all three subcategories: "Want to be Together Award," "Want to Collect Award," and "Want to See Story Award," garnering applause and excitement from the audience.

The variety of performances included the special stage for PomPomPurin's 30th anniversary, combining comedy with music and featuring beloved characters like Kurumi and Cinnamoroll. The DJ segment made the event lively, while a spectacular finale awaited the audience with a vibrant and energetic atmosphere at the "SANRIO KAWAII LIVE" where characters engaged the crowd with singing and marching.

A Celebration of the Sanrio World

The main venue featured a cityscape adorned with character decorations known as “Sanrio Fest 2026 City.” It also introduced the first game title from Sanrio's new self-branded gaming venture, "Sanrio Games," alongside other character booths and exclusive merchandise. A simultaneous event, the "Sanrio Kids Festival," was held for children, filled with interactive games, performances, and activities.

Sanrio Fest transformed Minatomirai station and surrounding facilities into a colorful tapestry of joy. Visitors enjoyed special decorations throughout places like Landmark Plaza and Queen's Square Yokohama, creating an enchanting ambiance that made the festival an unforgettable experience for all attendees.

Curious attendees can find highlights and rewatch the main stage broadcasts via the official Sanrio Japan YouTube channel (@sanriojapan). The Sanrio Fest 2026 was a remarkable celebration, merging heartfelt connections with joyful memories, ensuring fans left with smiles and excitement for future events.