I also missed out on the event, having left the East Coast to fly out to Seattle for PAX Prime on Wednesday and did not return til the following Wednesday, after which I completely forgot that the event was going on. It's unfortunate that the event had to end in the morning instead of in the evening/prior to midnight, when most maintenances occur. I also don't blame SE for my lack of participation.

I watched the event on YouTube, and I'm sure the minions will be available for purchase at some point if not already (not an option I'm willing to jump at, but an option nonetheless). However, I'm more disappointed that there was an achievement and a mini game that I missed out on. Would there be any way to get these in the future through other means? It would be great to be able to play through older anniversary quests and gain their rewards during a following anniversary, even if it means having to wait a full year at this point.