Super Mario Bros. 40th Anniversary: Nintendo Hosts Memorable Mario Meet and Greet Event

Nintendo kicked off the Super Mario Bros.

40th Anniversary celebrations last weekend with an engaging Mario meet and greet event at the Nintendo San Francisco location.

Recognized as one of the most iconic video game franchises in history, Super Mario Bros.

was first released in 1985 on the Nintendo Entertainment System and has since become a pillar of Nintendo’s legacy.

Over nearly four decades, the franchise has sold over 400 million units across all titles, establishing Mario as a cultural icon beloved by generations. On September 20 and 21, Nintendo San Francisco opened its doors to fans eager to mark this milestone anniversary.

Guests were greeted with the opportunity to take photos with Mario himself and leave with limited-edition giveaways.

The event was well-organized, with staff managing the crowd efficiently to ensure everyone had a memorable experience.

Visitors were asked to limit themselves to two photos per person, and staff kindly used attendees’ phones for the photos to maintain the event’s pace.

Videos were not permitted while meeting Mario, helping the line move smoothly.

The Mario character at the event entertained the crowd with signature gestures, including the classic Mario victory sign and energetic dance moves.

According to attendees, the actor inside the Mario costume was both good-natured and animated, welcoming fans with open arms and a playful sense of humor.

After their photo session, guests could choose between a set of Mario and Luigi patches or a Mario-themed coloring book—both free mementos to commemorate the anniversary.

The coloring book, adorned with official Super Mario Bros.

artwork, featured familiar faces such as Bowser Jr.

and the Koopa Kids, adding an extra touch for longtime fans. The celebration drew fans of all ages and backgrounds, whether attending with family, friends, partners, or solo.

Throughout the event, there was palpable excitement in the air as attendees awaited their turn to meet Mario, with some onlookers amused as Mario maneuvered around Nintendo Switch demonstration kiosks due to the oversized costume head. Nintendo is keeping the excitement going with another free anniversary event scheduled for this Saturday, September 27.

From 11:00 am to 2:00 pm local time, both the Nintendo San Francisco and Nintendo New York locations will host challenge events, inviting fans to face off against Nintendo ambassadors in a selection of classic and new Mario games.

While the specific titles for the challenge were not officially confirmed, the @nintendostoreus Instagram account polled fans on their top choices, listing Super Mario Bros.

Wonder, Super Mario World, Super Mario 64, and Super Mario Bros.

3 as fan favorites under consideration.

As Nintendo continues its Super Mario Bros.

40th Anniversary festivities, fans across the United States have more opportunities to connect with the franchise’s beloved characters and celebrate its rich history on Nintendo Switch and other platforms.

For more details on upcoming events and Super Mario Bros.

milestones, keep an eye on official Nintendo channels and the eShop.

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