Sanrio is launching an ‘epic’ celebration to mark 50 years of the classic Hello Kitty brand.
In anticipation of the major milestone on 1 November 2024, Sanrio has promised that the coming year will be filled with ways to celebrate in both the digital and physical worlds and will be highlighted with many surprises along the way.
In anticipation of her 50th anniversary, Hello Kitty will release several digital promotions, reaching both existing fans and new generations to continue discovering Hello Kitty online.
There will be an official collaboration with global DJ, Steve Aoki that will be shared with fans, called ‘Hello Aoki’, while Sanrio will also introduce new digital tools including an AR app, short animations on TikTok, monthly promotions in My Hello Kitty Cafe on Roblox and a presence in the digital world of Zepeto.
Fans will soon have access to an AR app that allows them to interact with Hello Kitty as she dances beside five iconic global landmarks: toward SHIBUYA109 in Tokyo, Big Ben in London, the Eiffel Tower in Paris, TAIPEI 101 in Taiwan, and the Empire State Building in New York. The landmarks will come alive with celebratory animations, while the AR app will also function as a TikTok effect, enabling fans to create and share their own Hello Kitty-themed videos.
A dedicated Hello Kitty animation account, This is Hello Kitty (@this_is_hellokitty_), has been launched on TikTok, and up to four short animations of Hello Kitty will be posted every month.
Throughout the upcoming year, fans will find many ways to fully immerse themselves in the Hello Kitty-themed world in My Hello Kitty Cafe on Roblox. Starting this month, they can explore a photo booth for taking Y2K feel photos, enjoy a mini-game with emotes and costume rewards, plus purchase avatars, costumes and emotes.
Additionally, from December, fans can experience a museum-themed mini-game and virtual exhibition, as well as participate in a ‘Find Hello Kitty’ challenge. 2024 will also see the launch of a digital dance floor where fans will be able to dance the night away.
Meanwhile, Zepeto – the popular platform renowned for its customisable 3D avatars and social networking – is now home to a dedicated Hello Kitty environment. Within the virtual world, fans can immerse themselves in a Hello Kitty experience with themed landscapes, games, boutiques, photo zones and a dance space.
Zepeto will also introduce new features, offering users five elements to explore: a Boutique Game where they can channel their inner fashion designer with Hello Kitty motifs, contests and prizes; a Photo Zone where you can find the hidden Hello Kitty and capture memories; a Dance Zone for dancing alongside Hello Kitty and participating in dance challenges; Athletic Games for entertainment and excitement, and Item Shop with Hello Kitty-themed outfits that allow users to express their unique style. Items will be available starting from 1 November, while the Hello Kitty-themed worlds are planned to be launched from mid-November and onwards.
On top of this, the Japan Society of Northern California (JSNC), known for its commitment to promoting understanding and friendship between the US and Japan, has presented Hello Kitty with the Cultural Ambassador Award, recognising her as an international symbol of peace and friendship.
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