SF BART Brings Anime Mascots to FanExpo
BART brings anime mascots Bort, Bertha, and Bartholomew to FanExpo booth at Moscone Center
BART Adds Anime Mascots to FanExpo Event
Bay Area transit riders can meet BART's anime mascots at FanExpo San Francisco this weekend. The transit agency will set up a booth at Moscone Center from Nov. 28-30, featuring mascots Bort, Bertha, and Bartholomew, officials said. BART encourages riders to wear cosplay costumes on trains heading to the convention.
Transit Agency Expands Community Engagement
The FanExpo participation reflects BART's broader strategy to connect with younger riders through pop culture, according to the transit agency. BART introduced its anime-style mascots in 2023 as part of community engagement efforts. The mascots have since appeared at various Bay Area events throughout 2024. Transit agencies in Los Angeles and New York have similarly participated in comic conventions to promote transit use for major events, though BART didn't provide comparative attendance data for its booth.
Booth Offers Photos and Transit Information
BART's booth will operate from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Friday and Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday. The booth will feature photo opportunities with the mascots, giveaways, and transit information for convention attendees. Officials didn't specify the exact booth location within Moscone Center or details about specific promotional items. The agency said staff will be available to answer questions about reaching the venue via transit.
Powell Street Station Provides Direct Access
FanExpo attendees can reach Moscone Center via Powell Street or Embarcadero BART stations, both within walking distance of the venue. The three-day convention typically draws tens of thousands of attendees to downtown San Francisco. Officials didn't announce special service adjustments for the event, though BART averages 165,000 weekday riders systemwide. The agency said it hasn't released specific cosplay guidelines but welcomes riders in costume.
Riders Can Plan Convention Trips
Convention-goers wearing elaborate costumes should allow extra time for their commute, transit officials said. The agency encourages riders to use public transit to avoid downtown parking challenges during the busy convention weekend. Moovit provides real-time BART schedules and trip planning for riders heading to Moscone Center. Officials said they'll share additional event details on social media as the convention approaches.
