#None #Los Angeles #Hello Kitty #Cinnamoroll #Kuromi

Sanrio's Annual Character Ranking is Here!

From April 8 to May 24, 2026, fans eagerly await the opportunity to vote for their favorite Sanrio characters as part of the much-anticipated Character Ranking contest. This yearly event encourages fans from all over to show their love for any of the 90 featured characters, including beloved icons like Hello Kitty, Cinnamoroll, and Kuromi.

In this vibrant celebration, participants can cast their votes either online through the dedicated contest website or by visiting select Sanrio Stores, Hello Kitty Cafes, and Hot Topic Stores across North America. The beauty of this event lies in its inclusivity, reinforcing that every character is cherished and valued, irrespective of their ranking.

Celebrating Positivity and Shared Joy

Sanrio’s tagline for this year, “Sending Cheers and Hugs to Everyone Doing Their Very Best,” encapsulates the spirit of encouragement and positivity that the brand has always championed. Jill Koch, Senior Vice President of Brand at Sanrio Inc., shared, “Our annual Character Ranking contest is all about celebrating the connection fans have with our characters and with each other.” This year promises not just votes but a vibrant sense of community and joy as fans engage with their favorites.

In the previous year, Pompompurin won the title of ultimate fan favorite, with Cinnamoroll and Pochacco following closely. As anticipation builds for the current competition, fans are eager to find out who will take the crown this time.

Fun Voting Experience

To enhance excitement, fans voting in person will receive a free “I Voted” sticker, while supplies last. In particular, the Hello Kitty and Friends Cafe located at Universal CityWalk in Los Angeles will offer limited-edition treats for a more delightful experience. Highlights include the tasty Mixed Berry Black Tea Lemonade and Mixed Berry Sponge Cake, crafted specially for the event.

For the second consecutive year, Hot Topic Stores join the fun by allowing fans to cast their votes in-person and providing unique merchandise celebrating the Character Ranking event. This collaboration promises exclusive items for fans to commemorate their voting experience.

Moreover, select Sanrio Stores, Cafes, and Hot Topic locations will host character meet-and-greets, an incredible chance for fans to interact with their beloved characters in real life. With so many interactive elements, this year's event is shaping up to be especially memorable.

Join the Celebration!

Stay updated on the latest character meets, ranking updates, and exciting surprises during the voting period by following @hellokitty and @sanrio on social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok.

About Sanrio

Founded in 1960, Sanrio is a global lifestyle brand recognized for its treasured character, Hello Kitty, created in 1974. The brand specializes in fostering happiness and friendship through simple acts of kindness. Sanrio continues to inspire joy and memorable experiences worldwide, promoting the idea that “a small gift can bring happiness.” The company’s reach extends into entertainment, including various content series, games, and theme parks, with an extensive product lineup available in over 130 countries. To learn more about their delightful offerings, visit Sanrio’s official website or follow them on social channels.

Sanrio invites everyone to participate in this joyous celebration—vote for your favorites and be part of a global community that cherishes these iconic characters!