FAQ and Policies

Code of Conduct

In order to make your convention experience and that of your fellow con-goers a pleasant one, we require everyone to observe the following rules. Persons violating this Code of Conduct may be asked to leave Anime Festival Orlando and have their badge revoked. Please have your Anime Festival Orlando badge or wristband openly displayed and visible on your person at all times while at the convention. Failure to present a valid badge or wristband when asked by an authorized representative of Anime Festival Orlando may result in expulsion from the convention. Anime Festival Orlando reserves the right to refuse entrance into the events or service to any individual or group at any time.

Anime Festival Orlando is committed to creating a safe environment and positive convention experience. Failure to comply with any of the following policies may result in actions leading up to removal from the convention without a refund or referral to law enforcement.

Disorderly conduct and disruptive behavior is prohibited.
Fighting, sparring, or any other similar behavior will not be tolerated.
Please keep in mind that although AFO is the only event at the Rosen Plaza, during this weekend, we are not the only guests.
- Do not brandish or display weapons randomly, as doing so may cause adverse reactions from guests not attending the AFO event, and we really don’t want anyone getting into any trouble.
Persons committing crimes including theft, vandalism, fraud, and destruction of property will be ejected from AFO and remanded to the custody of Orange County Police.
Panhandling, begging, and performing any act in exchange for goods, services, or money is prohibited.
Cosplay must be appropriate. No costume is no costume.
Signs are prohibited unless it can be demonstrated the sign is an essential element of the character.
Sales of merchandise or any other item outside of authorized AFO venues is prohibited.
American Sign Language interpreters may be requested by email at info@animefestvialorlando.com
Do not abuse the convention space and hotel property. Do not move any chairs, tables, or hotel property in the convention areas.
If you are under 21, it is illegal to consume alcohol in the State of Florida.
Do not sleep in public spaces, your car, the pool, or panel rooms. The convention area closes at 2 am on Friday and Saturday.
Be courteous and turn off your cell phone while attending AFO events and panels.
Be excellent to each other and have fun at AFO!

18+ Event Policies

Events and panels that contain mature content require government-issued photo identification indicating appropriate age (18+) to enter. No exceptions will be made.
Unless consent is given before the event by all people hosting and performing in the event, there are to be no cell phones out during 18+ events. This means they have to stay in a pocket, bag or other location that is not accessible by the owner.
- If a person is found to have a cellphone out for any reason during the event, they will be removed from the panel and/or further actions may be taken.
- Upon repeat offense, attendee may forfeit their badge as a consequence.

Weapons Policy

AFO is requesting that any costumes with weapons as props be registered and peace-bonded if necessary. Weapons are defined as any item that may intentionally or indirectly inflict injury or disturbance, such as guns, swords, staffs. However large wings and oversized costumes may also cause injury or damage so please be aware that a staff member may restrict your entrance to certain areas such as the dealers room, or Video Arcade. Please be aware that any staff member at any time may request to inspect any prop or costume, or ask you to remove any offending item(s).
Firearms of any kind are not permitted at Anime Festival Orlando.
Please keep in mind that although AFO is the only event at the Rosen Plaza, during this weekend, we are not the only guests. Do not brandish or display weapons randomly as to do so may cause adverse reactions from guests not attending the AFO event, and we really don’t want anyone getting into any trouble. Thank you.

Buying Weapons in the Dealer’s Room

Any dealer selling bladed weapons will be instructed to secure the article in a sealed box. The purchaser is responsible for removing the item immediately from the convention space. Please lock it in your vehicle or your room. Convention staff cannot be responsible for holding items for you.

Clear Bag Policy

To ensure the safety and security of all attendees, Anime Festival Orlando has implemented a clear bag policy for any of our dance events. This policy aims to streamline the security process while maintaining a safe and enjoyable environment for everyone.

Policy Details:

Approved Bags: Only clear bags, transparent backpacks, or small clutch purses measuring no larger than 6.5″ x 4.5″ are permitted into any dance event.
Exceptions: Medical bags or equipment necessary for medical conditions are exempt from this policy but may be subject to inspection. If you have a medical bag or medical equipment, please check in with the Info Desk team ahead of any dance events you plan to attend.
Prohibited Items: Any bags that do not meet the clear bag policy criteria will not be allowed into dance events. Attendees are also prohibited from bringing in weapons, sharp objects, illegal substances, or any item that poses a threat to the safety of others.
Inspections: All bags are subject to inspection by security personnel upon entry to our dance events. Attendees are required to cooperate with security staff during the inspection process.
Safety Measures: This policy is implemented with the safety and security of all attendees in mind. By adhering to this policy, we aim to create a secure environment where everyone can enjoy the convention experience without concerns about safety.

Additional Notes:

Attendees are encouraged to plan ahead and only bring necessary items to any dance event.
Any violations of this policy may result in denied entry or removal from the convention premises with no refunds given.

Harassment Policy

Anime Festival Orlando (AFO) strives to create a fun, inclusive, and safe environment for all fans to come together and celebrate their love for anime, gaming, and pop culture. In order to maintain this environment, AFO enforces a zero-tolerance policy for harassment of any kind.

What Constitutes Harassment?

Harassment includes, but is not limited to, the following behaviors:

Making unwanted and/or discriminatory advances based on race, creed, color, sex, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability, pregnancy, veteran status, physical appearance, or any other protected status under applicable laws.
Intimidation, stalking, and unwanted or inappropriate photography or recording.
Inappropriate physical contact or uninvited sexual attention.
Any other verbal or physical conduct that creates a discriminatory, hostile, or offensive environment.
Creating an intimidating atmosphere, whether through words, gestures, or behavior that makes others feel unsafe.

What To Do If You Are Harassed or Witness Harassment:

If you experience or witness harassment at Anime Festival Orlando, please report it immediately to any member of the AFO staff. Our staff is trained to address harassment concerns and has the authority to take immediate action, including contacting security or local law enforcement if necessary.

AFO staff can assist with:

Ensuring your safety, including offering escorts to your vehicle, hotel room, or a safe space.
Investigating complaints discreetly and appropriately.
Taking appropriate action against individuals engaging in harassment, which may include removal from the convention without a refund and possible legal action.

Retaliation:

Anime Festival Orlando prohibits retaliation against anyone who reports harassment or assists in an investigation. No attendee, exhibitor, sponsor, or staff member will face intimidation, threats, or discrimination for speaking up or for participating in an investigation.

AFO Staff’s Role and Authority:

AFO staff has sole discretion to determine whether an incident constitutes harassment under this policy. We reserve the right to take immediate action against anyone found to be in violation, up to and including:

Immediate expulsion from the event with no refund.
Referral to law enforcement for possible legal action.

This policy applies to all attendees, exhibitors, sponsors, staff, and guests of Anime Festival Orlando.

Thank you for your cooperation in making Anime Festival Orlando a safe and enjoyable event for all attendees. For any questions or concerns about any of our policies, please feel free to contact us at info@animefestivalorlando.com