Japan's largest doujinshi event, Comic Market (Comiket, C107), kicked off on December 30-31, drawing massive crowds on its first day. The chilly weather did nothing to dampen the attendees' enthusiasm.
If you've ever been, you'd know the Japanese Red Cross always sets up bloodmobiles at the venue, offering anime merch in exchange for donations. This year, a whopping 30 bloodmobiles were on standby, creating an impressive sight and once again showcasing the otaku community's long-standing commitment to charity.
Comiket partners with the Japanese Red Cross every year. This time, from December 30 to January 31, 2026, they're running a 400mL blood donation drive at Red Cross blood centers nationwide. Donors receive an exclusive collaboration poster set, with support from companies like NEOWIZ and viviON.
▼ This year's giveaway features A1 posters from the mobile game "Brown Dust 2" and VTuber group Aogiri High School.
On December 30 and 31, multiple blood donation buses were specially stationed around the Comiket venue, allowing attendees to "donate blood while enjoying the event." The Tokyo Red Cross Blood Center welcomed everyone, whether first-time donors or those returning after a long break, to participate enthusiastically.
Many attendees shared their experiences on X, with some describing the sheer number of bloodmobiles and Red Cross tents as looking like "a humanitarian aid site." Veteran fans reminisced about being taught in their student days that "donating blood at Comiket is an otaku's duty." Seeing even more vehicles than before, they exclaimed, "This tradition has truly been passed down!"
Of course, some folks are there for the posters, and for the Comiket crowd, that kind of reward is absolutely worth it!
Naturally, on the day of donation, it's crucial to consider your physical condition and schedule. If you've been lifting heavy objects, are physically exhausted, or pulled an all-nighter, it's best to skip donating. However, the on-site facilities are top-notch, with tents and heating to keep donors comfortable even in the chilly winter.
Comiket's annual year-end blood drive once again shows the world that it's more than just a doujinshi cultural festival; it's a long-standing platform that quietly supports social welfare. Perhaps similar anime events elsewhere could also integrate blood drives to encourage more people to contribute to blood banks, fostering successful collaborations.
via： togetter