Growing up in the late 70's and 80’s meant that anything with Hello Kitty on it was the most coveted of accessories. From the coin purses to pens, you had to have it; in all its red bowed glory!

In honor of her 40th Anniversary, Sanrio the parent company is doing it BIG, with the first ever Hello Kitty Convention, scheduled for October 30th - November 2nd in Los Angeles, CA.

The Convention will feature a retrospective with the very first Hello Kitty coin purse from 1974 on display, speakers, workshops, panels and discussions, a Hello Kitty supermarket, Hello Kitty food, a meet and greet, and even a tattoo shop! Hello Kitty isn’t just for kids anymore!

In addition to the Convention, there will also be a first of its kind exhibition at The Japanese American National Museum (JANM) in Los Angeles, titled “Hello! Exploring the Supercute World of Hello Kitty”. The exhibition opens October 11tg and will be on view through April 26, 2015. There will also be special collaborations and products from Sephora, Major League Baseball (MLB), the National Football League (NFL), Mikimoto, Vans, New Era, and many more. Hello Kitty will also continue to travel across the globe, spreading the message of friendship with the “Share a Hug with Hello Kitty! Campaign”.

If you’re a fan of Hello Kitty or just want to check out what is sure to be a fun, if not interesting and colorful weekend, you’ll definitely want to go to this Convention.

Tickets are $30 for adults, $20 for kids age 6 – 12 years, and kids age 5 and under are free.

For more information on the convention go to www.sanrio.com/hellokittycon-eventinfo/