The Animelo Summer Live event, commonly known as Anisama, will return to Saitama Super Arena next year following a brief spell away.

Held over the weekend from July 10 to July 12 in Makuhari Messe, this year's event was the first time it has taken place somewhere other than Saitama Super Arena since Nippon Budokan in 2007. As to why, the venue is currently undergoing large scale repair works that prevent its use until March 2027. It was also renamed to 'GMO Arena saitama' earlier this year following a new sponsor and a new project to combine "the best in technology and entertainment."

Considering this timeline, it's perhaps no surprise to hear that Anisama 2027 will open its doors in the newly renovated arena in August. More specifically, it will take place over the course of three days from August 27 to August 29. In addition, the event will be holding a special performance in Fukuoka from July 13 to July 14 for the very first time.

The fact that Anisama shifted away from its usual spot could be one of the reasons why many users on social media reported a noticeable number of empty seats throughout the weekend. Indeed, the attendance across three days was given as 45,000 people, roughly half of last year's event. Here's hoping the mojo can come back.