Conventions: Free Hugs

Truth be told that anime fans are the hippies of the new millennium.

Um...first of all it's inevitable to see someone at an anime con with a free hugs sign. Secondly, without the sign you would have to ask random people for a hug that most likely won't want one because you asked. There's something different about the sign. It's not as stalkerish if you know what I'm getting at...And also only the people who want hugs normally go up to those people and hug them. Yes, I have hugged someone with a free hugs sign in my lifetime and not afraid to say so! Ever see those free Yoshi rides?? I almost got one once, but the guy left... :)

There is nothing wrong with a free hug now and then. If you put a lot of work and effort into your cosplay and other people really like it and are fans, that is alright. no problem there.

Walking around the con with a free hugs sign, shirt, banner or other device with your cosplay is different. That is a person who wants the attention more than they are already getting with the cosplay is a bit too extreme.

Walking around the con in street clothes with Free hugs signs that are unoriginal or plain are just creepy.

Don't get me wrong. I have given my fare share of free hugs and glomps. If a person asks for a free hug and I am not busy with something. Sure, I will do it. I have gotten hugs from Both Males and Females, and the occasional Cosplayer. It isn't that bad.

Cons are a place to where people with the common interest get together to have fun, enjoy themselves, Get the scoop on the newest data available, buy great stuff, and interact with people.

I have been trying to post a comment on this thread for TWO DAYS but Mr. Worthington continuously thwarted my evil plot...

ANYWAY, I love the free hugs people! Except for the creepy ones like Tom mentioned. CREEPERS!!!

Pedobear's free hugs?! Sign me up!

Sometimes it'll be a creepy guy with a weapon. That is the time for pepper-sprays/run-for-your-lifes/awkward-staring-contests.

Always a staple of con attendance :)

I think the creepy guy in that situation is looking for a little more than a 'free hug'. He might as well be holding a sign that says 'free groping'. eewy i just got the goosebumps >:/

Extra points for doing it while wearing a pedobear costume.

Yea, I saw a bum with a free hug sign. THAT, was kreepy. :O

i think the free hugs r awesome. lik the one i gav at the NYAF he was sitting looking sad and holding a sign that said "every hug helps save an EMO'S life"

It's kinda weird that they have signs up for free hugs. But I like giving hugs to people.

I went to a con cosplaying as L from Death Note. Even though I didn't have a sign, crazy fangirls were asking for hugs. Didn't mind though, it was fun. Next time, I'm bringin' a sign.

I think free hugs are the best! I don't see why conventions get so upset, it's just a hug! And as long as the hugger is given permission who cares???

At Animazement, we have free hugs people and I give them a hug but our big thing is pet the Eevee or other Pokemon plushie of your choice. You have someone standing there declaring Pet the Eevee and as you walk by you give it a pat. Genius! Now no one gets groped!