Sanrio kicks off Hello Kitty’s 50th anniversary celebration

Hello Kitty is kicking off a year of festivities in honor of her 50th anniversary. Since her debut in 1974, Hello Kitty has had the unique ability to connect generations of people all over the world while sharing her positive message of friendship and kindness.

Iconic kitten

A pioneer of Japanese culture, she also introduced American audiences to a new aesthetic, opening doors for wider appreciation of Japanese pop culture and storytelling in America, and paving the way for other brands to follow.

To celebrate, Sanrio, the parent company of Hello Kitty, will host range of programs throughout the year for her devoted fans in the U.S., including a supercute art exhibit in Los Angeles, original content on the Hello Kitty and Friends YouTube channel, exclusive collaborations, limited edition commemorative products, special appearances by Hello Kitty at major sporting events, new metaverse experiences on Roblox, celebrations in Hello Kitty Island Adventure on Apple Arcade, and more. Sanrio is also excited to announce several upcoming Hello Kitty Cafe openings across North America.

Ambassador of friendship and kindness

“An ambassador of friendship and kindness for the past 50 years, Hello Kitty has touched so many people globally and we want to share our appreciation for her fans by offering memorable Hello Kitty-inspired experiences - both IRL and digitally - all year long,” said Craig Takiguchi, Chief Operating Officer of Sanrio, Inc. “We look forward to commemorating this major milestone, while continuing to inspire people from around the world for the next 50 years with our vision of ‘One World, Connecting Smiles.’”

Sanrio is also extending the celebration by creating a virtual Puroland experience, which is an extension of the IRL theme park in Japan, taking place now through March 17.

Source: www.businesswire.com