GUEST AGREEMENT


This Guest Agreement (the "Agreement") is made and entered into by and between the Japanese Cultural Exposition Group, a 501(c)(3) Non-Profit Organization, doing business as AniFest 2025 ("Organizer"), and the  ("Guest"). This Agreement outlines the terms and conditions of Guest’s participation at AniFest 2025 (the "Event").

1. DUTIES & EXPECTATIONS

Guest agrees to perform the duties assigned to them, which may include but are not limited to:

  • Costume Entertainment ("Cosplay") – Engaging with attendees while in costume, posing for photographs, and participating in scheduled cosplay events or competitions.
  • Stage Performances – Singing, dancing, voice acting demonstrations, martial arts displays, or other live performances as agreed upon with Organizer.
  • Panel Participation & Industry Representation – Hosting or participating in panel discussions, Q&A sessions, or meet-and-greet sessions. Guests in the industry sector are expected to interact with fans, discuss their work, and positively represent the event.
  • Autograph Sessions & Merchandise Sales – If applicable, Guest may conduct autograph signings or merchandise sales under terms agreed upon separately with Organizer.
  • Professional Conduct – Guest shall conduct themselves professionally and respectfully towards attendees, staff, and fellow participants at all times. Inappropriate behavior, including but not limited to harassment, disruptive conduct, or violation of event policies, may result in immediate removal from the Event and forfeiture of any agreed compensation.

2. DISPARAGEMENT, SLANDER & DEFAMATION CLAUSE

Guest agrees not to make or publish any false, misleading, or disparaging statements, whether written, oral, or electronic, about Organizer, its sponsors, staff, volunteers, or attendees. This includes but is not limited to statements made on social media, interviews, public appearances, and private communications that could harm Organizer’s reputation.

Any concerns or grievances must be brought directly to Organizer in writing to allow for resolution before public discussion.

Guest acknowledges that violation of this clause may result in termination of this Agreement, forfeiture of any compensation or benefits, and potential legal action.

3. NON-DISCLOSURE AGREEMENT (NDA)

Guest acknowledges that they may receive confidential or proprietary information about Organizer, the Event, or affiliated partners, including but not limited to:

  • Internal event logistics and security measures.
  • Financial agreements, sponsorships, and partnerships.
  • Unannounced guests, programs, or features of the Event.

Guest agrees not to disclose, distribute, or share any confidential information with third parties without prior written consent. This NDA shall remain in effect indefinitely, surviving the termination of this Agreement. Unauthorized disclosure may result in legal consequences, including financial damages.

4. FORCE MAJEURE

Neither party shall be liable for any failure to perform obligations under this Agreement due to events beyond their reasonable control, including but not limited to:

  • Natural disasters (earthquakes, floods, hurricanes, etc.).
  • Acts of terrorism, war, or government actions.
  • Pandemics, outbreaks, or public health emergencies.
  • Unforeseen venue closures or cancellations.

In such cases, Organizer may cancel, reschedule, or modify the Event without liability. If possible, Organizer will make reasonable efforts to accommodate Guest at a rescheduled event or provide alternative opportunities.

5. CANCELLATION CLAUSE

By Organizer: Organizer reserves the right to cancel Guest’s participation for any reason, including but not limited to failure to adhere to the terms of this Agreement, violation of event policies, or unforeseen circumstances. In such cases, Organizer may provide a prorated payment if expenses have been incurred.

By Guest: If Guest needs to cancel their participation, they must notify Organizer in writing at least 60 days before the Event to allow for alternative arrangements. If Guest cancels within 30 days of the Event, they may be responsible for reimbursing any expenses incurred by Organizer on their behalf.

No-Show Policy: If Guest fails to appear at the Event without prior notice, they may be prohibited from participating in future events organized by Organizer.

6. ARBITRATION CLAUSE

Any disputes arising out of or relating to this Agreement shall be resolved through binding arbitration with the American Arbitration Association (AAA).

Arbitration shall take place in California, and both parties agree to abide by the arbitrator’s decision.

Each party shall bear its own legal costs and fees.

This clause does not preclude either party from seeking equitable relief in a court of law if necessary.

7. GENERAL LIABILITY CLAUSE

Guest understands and agrees that participation in the Event is voluntary and assumes all risks associated with their activities, including but not limited to:

  • Interactions with attendees, including potential exposure to illness.
  • Physical performances or demonstrations.
  • Travel to and from the Event.

Guest waives any liability claims against Organizer, its affiliates, employees, volunteers, and vendors for injuries, damages, or losses incurred during the Event, except in cases of gross negligence or intentional misconduct by Organizer.

8. INDEMNIFICATION CLAUSE

Guest agrees to indemnify, defend, and hold harmless Organizer, its directors, officers, employees, volunteers, affiliates, and venue partners from any claims, liabilities, damages, or expenses (including attorney fees) arising from Guest’s actions, conduct, or breach of this Agreement.

9. ADDITIONAL CLAUSES

Public Image & Brand Representation: Guest must uphold Organizer’s reputation and refrain from controversial or harmful conduct.

Photography & Media Release: Guest grants Organizer a royalty-free, perpetual license to use any media featuring them at the Event.

Merchandise & Revenue Share: Guests selling merchandise must comply with vendor policies and may be subject to a venue fee.

Security & Safety Compliance: Guests must follow all security protocols, including badge display and emergency procedures.

Social Media Promotion Commitment: Guest agrees to promote their participation on social media (Instagram, Twitter/X, TikTok) at least once before the event.

Guest Accommodations & Expenses: Any travel or lodging reimbursement requests must be submitted within 14 days with proper documentation.

Non-Compete Clause: Guest agrees not to participate in directly competing anime festivals in the same metropolitan area within 7 days before or after AniFest 2025 without prior written approval.

Code of Conduct & Ethics: Guest must adhere to ethical standards, ensuring fair treatment of attendees and avoiding controversial or unethical behavior.

Emergency Contact & Medical Disclosure: Guest must provide emergency contact information and disclose any medical conditions that may require attention during the Event.

10. GOVERNING LAW

This Agreement shall be governed by and interpreted in accordance with the laws of the State of California. Any legal action outside of arbitration must be filed within California jurisdiction.

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Signed by Japanese Cultural Exposition Group
Signed On: February 10, 2025


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Document name: GUEST AGREEMENT
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February 9, 2025 10:20 pm PDTGUEST AGREEMENT Uploaded by Japanese Cultural Exposition Group - drew@anifest.org IP 192.168.1.3