Con+Alt+Delete With Kids: How to Make the Weekend Magical Without Exhausting Everyone

Bringing kids to Con+Alt+Delete is a bit like unleashing tiny, excitable investigators into a neon-colored universe built entirely out of their favorite shows, games, memes, and characters. Their eyes go wide at every cosplay, their feet sprint toward every arcade machine, and their hearts practically levitate when they see someone dressed as a character they adore.

And that raw wonder is exactly why parents bring their kids to cons in the first place. To give them a world where imagination isn’t just encouraged—it’s the dress code.

The trick, of course, is enjoying all of that without collapsing into a pile of well-meaning exhaustion by Saturday afternoon.

Setting the Tone: Let Kids Lead (But Steer the Ship Quietly)

Here’s the secret to making CAD magical: follow their curiosities as your compass, and let the schedule bend around the moments that light them up.

Kids will go wild for some unexpected things:

• a cosplayer giving them a high five

• a surprise dance circle in the hallway

• a Pachinko machine that goes ping-ping-bling

• the free ramen line (oh yes, ConSweet is powerful magic)

Allow yourself to pause. Linger. Drift into those moments.

If your kid suddenly decides the Arcade Room is the only place their soul can thrive—lean in. If they want to sit in the hallway and watch cosplayers breeze by like living artwork, let that be the plan. CAD is built for discovering joy in tiny pockets.

The Magic of Comfortable Cosplay (Because Kids Don’t Hide Discomfort Well)

Kids love cosplay. They also hate being sweaty, itchy, constricted, stabbed by a wayward safety pin, or carrying a prop heavier than a baby seal.

The sweet spot?
Lightweight costumes that can be layered, flex, and survive sticky fingers.

Think about:

• soft fabrics, breathable capes

• wigs they can pull off easily

• shoes they already love (no matter how tempting the anime boots are)

• backup pieces for when someone decides being “regular clothes kid” is the superior form of cosplay

If they’re tiny anime enthusiasts, keep the costume flexible—something they can nap in without looking like a deflated mascot.

Bonus trick:
Bring a “cosplay cooldown kit” — wipes, extra hair ties, a mini fan, and a snack. Kids overheat fast, and nothing fixes morale like a pretzel rod.

Building Quiet Pockets Into a High-Energy World

Con energy is electric—but for kids, that voltage hits differently. You’ll want several quiet zones built into your mental map:

• calm corners in hallways

• the tabletop gaming room during off-hours

• the hotel lobby in mid-afternoons

• your room, which becomes a sanctuary for snack recharging and sock changes

Even the Exhibit Hall has lulls—usually early or before the big shows start. Use those to stroll slowly and let kids explore without the sensory stampede.

When you sense the “overstimulated meltdown thundercloud” forming, pivot early. A quiet break is better than trying to negotiate with someone who’s currently in their Ultra Mega Overload Form.

Must-Experience Events for Families at Con+Alt+Delete

Now let’s talk about the world you and your kids get to explore. CAD is packed—PACKED—with events, rooms, shows, and activities. This convention is basically a buffet for curiosity. Below are the ones families tend to adore—and why they belong on your “must-do” list.

The Cosplay Contest

Kids love the Cosplay Contest for a very pure reason: they get to watch adults be silly, dramatic, funny, fierce, and stylish… all at once. The stage lights, the applause, the giant swords—it's pure theater, and it’s mesmerizing.

For younger con-goers, this is a great moment to cheer loudly and feel like part of the fandom family. And if they’re bold enough to enter? C+A+D is wonderfully supportive. You’ll see all skill levels, all ages, and a ton of heart.

It’s safe, fun, and a highlight you don’t skip.

Exhibit Hall

Imagine telling a kid: “Everything your heart desires is somewhere in this room, and yes, you can look at all of it.” That’s the Exhibit Hall.

It’s overflowing with:

• plushies

• art prints

• fan-made crafts

• handmade keychains

• figurines

• accessories

• clothing

• stickers

• items that instantly induce, “Mom can we get this???”

For families, the Exhibit Hall is the ideal “choose your own adventure” zone. Kids can explore at their pace, and there’s something delightful around every corner.

And parents—prepare yourselves. The handcrafted merch alone will tempt you into becoming “parent who accidentally bought three enamel pins.”

Friday & Saturday Epic Dances

These are late-night, high-energy events full of lights, music, and vibe. With younger kids, you might only swing by briefly—but even ten minutes feels like a magical peek into the big-kid side of the con.

For teens and older kids? This is the place they stay up way later than usual, burn off 2 years’ worth of bottled energy, and feel like part of something huge.

And honestly? It’s wholesome. It’s colorful. It feels like stepping into a music video.

Go for the vibes, leave when bedtime calls.

ConSweet (A.K.A. The Land of Free Ramen and Mt. Dew)

If Willy Wonka ran an anime con, this would be his first attraction. Kids will sprint toward ConSweet like it’s calling them home through the fabric of space and time.

Yes, it's free.
Yes, it’s unlimited ramen and soda.
Yes, your child will want seventeen.

Use ConSweet strategically:

• as a treat

• as a morale boost

• as a mid-day energy anchor

• as a place to take a breather

It’s chaotic in the most endearing way. Kids adore it.

Cosplay Prom / Fantasy Ball

It’s elegant, theatrical, and full of charm. The Fantasy Ball is the moment when kids (especially those who love princesses, knights, magical girls, or fancy anything) get to feel like royalty.

It’s more low-key than the Epic Dances and a little quieter, which makes it perfect for younger attendees or kids who love the idea of a “fancy party.”

Bring comfy shoes. Or at least promise a foot massage later. Yours, probably.

Maid Café

Wholesome, adorable, warm—and surprisingly kid-friendly. The Maid Café gives kids a soft introduction to con café culture: delicious sweets, cute performances, friendly servers, and a sense of theatrical hospitality.

It’s a total vibe shift from the louder halls.

Handcrafted Merch

This matters for kids because:

• they get to meet artists face-to-face

• they learn their favorite art is made by real people

• they connect fandom with creativity

• they can buy unique treasures they can’t find anywhere else

There’s something magical about watching a kid pick out a print or charm that genuinely speaks to them.

AnimeCon.org’s Fabulous Date Auction

You won’t linger long with younger children—but here’s the thing: the room is full of energy, laughter, and community. You might pop in just to let kids see the performers being silly and charming.

And for older teens, the auction feels like the ultimate “con culture moment” they can tell their friends about.

Meetups

Meetups are conversations waiting to happen. Families will often find meetups for:

• specific fandoms

• cosplay groups

• genres

• games

• shows

• ships (yes, tread lightly here)

Kids love these because they instantly belong. They get to meet others who obsess over the same things. And parents love them because it makes the big convention feel human-sized.

Autographs & Voice Actor Panels

You get face time with people whose voices have shaped your childhood and your kids’ favorite shows. Voice actors at C+A+D are warm, hilarious, inspiring, and endlessly patient with kids who want photos or signed plushies.

These moments become treasured keepsakes.

Stage Shows

High-energy performances, comedy moments, dramatic battles (thanks Samurai Dan & Jillian!), and live storytelling are all part of the Stage Show lineup.

Kids love the spectacle. Parents love sitting down for a while. Everybody wins.

Cosplay Photoshoots

This is where those costumes shine. Family-friendly photoshoots allow kids to pose with other fans dressed as characters they love.

Even shy kids usually melt into the fun when surrounded by cosplayers cheering them on.

Tabletop Gaming Room

This room is a sanctuary of calm. No loud music, no flashing lights—just chairs, tables, dice, cards, and creativity.

It’s perfect for downtime. Kids can settle into a game, make new friends, or learn something simple and fun.

Game Demos & More / Miniatures Room

These attractions work beautifully for kids who love tactile play. Painting minis, watching demonstrations, rolling dice—it’s hands-on, focused, and grounding.

It’s also a spot where you’ll see kids’ creativity explode.

Arcade Room

This is a pure kid magnet. Rhythm games, fighting games, old-school classics—this room is LOUD but wonderful. You might have to negotiate turn-taking, but honestly? Watching a kid dance on DDR like their life depends on it is its own reward.

3D Printing Room

You get to see machines turning plastic into tiny swords, figurines, charms, gadgets, and trinkets. It’s mesmerizing for kids who love science or crafts.

And parents will catch themselves saying, “…huh, maybe we should get a 3D printer.”

Sugoi Tattoos Booth

Parents might wince—but kids usually stare in awe. Watching tattoo artists work is surprisingly calming for many children. It’s also a great way to talk about body art in a positive, respectful way.

Pachinko Area

Lights! Noises! Bounce, bounce, cha-ching!

Kids LOVE Pachinko. Just keep an eye on them—once they discover the magic of tiny metallic balls, all bets are off.

Concerts

Family-friendly hype. Live music that’s energetic without being overwhelming. Bands and DJs performing anime hits, remixes, and con favorites.

Kids dance. Parents sway. It’s good vibes all around.

Karaoke Krypt

Kids love being loud. Karaoke Krypt says: “Go absolutely nuts.”

They can belt out theme songs with zero judgment. It’s one of the purest joys of the weekend.

Mainstage Productions

These are the big shows—premieres, competitions, dramatic performances, concerts, comedy, spectacle. If you want the “this is what a convention is all about” moment, Mainstage delivers.

Kids will remember these long after the weekend ends.

Video Gaming

You can safely lose your children here for hours. So many consoles. So many games. New, old, weird, niche—there’s something for everyone.

Kids love jumping from system to system. Parents love sitting on the sofas.

It’s bliss.

Fan-Run Panels: Where Kids’ Curiosity Explodes

Fan-run panels at C+A+D are basically the wild west of learning—minus the tumbleweeds and significantly more cosplay. These sessions are hosted by everyday fans who feel brave enough (or caffeinated enough) to grab a mic and say, “Hey, I want to talk about this thing I love.” And the magic is that “this thing” could be almost anything.

Sure, you’ll stumble into the expected nerdy goodness—anime tropes, character design deep-dives, gaming lore dissections—but that’s just the tip of the iceberg. Once fans start cooking up their own panel ideas, the convention opens up into a full-on buffet of unexpected knowledge.

One room might feature someone breaking down how to sell event tickets like a seasoned pro, while another could wander into the nitty-gritty of tourist scams to avoid when traveling to Japan—because nothing says “responsible world traveler” like learning how not to get swindled between your ramen runs.

Around the corner, you could find a teacher excitedly explaining how virtual reality might transform classrooms, followed by a creator who wants to walk kids through the basics of digital marketing without making their eyes glaze over. And don’t be surprised if someone pops in to show how you might build your first video game using accessible tools—they love recruiting future developers.

Then there are the curveballs. You could absolutely wander into a panel where someone explains cocktail recipes (don’t worry, the kids will be ushered elsewhere during the “shaken, not stirred” portion). A tech enthusiast might deep-dive into emerging AI technology and how it could shape future jobs. Another panel could drift toward home-life hacks, like designing minimalist kitchen spaces or reorganizing a chaotic minimalist bedroom on a budget.

There’s always a chance you’ll find someone teaching the basics of learning Chinese, purely because they’re passionate and want to share. Or a gardener might show how small space gardening could brighten your mornings. Someone else might encourage people to try going vegan in small, realistic steps. A budding entrepreneur could guide attendees through business planning essentials or optimizing their gaming setups for comfort and function. And just when you think you’ve seen it all, you might stumble into a warm, flour-covered soul happily sharing baking tips like a con-going grandmother you didn’t know you needed.

Even deeper topics might surface—like a thoughtful discussion on men’s rights or a gentle introduction to meditation for kids who need a moment to breathe between events.

And that’s the beauty of it. Fan-run panels aren’t locked into one genre or skill level. They’re a playground of possibilities where kids can bump into ideas they didn’t even know existed. They might leave inspired to build something, cook something, question something, or simply look at the world from a slightly different angle. It’s curiosity on tap, and at C+A+D, there’s always another panel waiting to spark the next big obsession.

Ticket Information: Get Them Early (Seriously)

For families, advance tickets are gold. They’re cheaper, easier to plan around, and guarantee you won’t face long registration lines with cranky children.

Weekend badges are currently discounted if you buy before November 20, 2025. Snag them early.

Practical Tips for Families (That Actually Work)

Let’s be honest—wrangling kids at a convention is basically a boss-level challenge, but with the right strategy, you can make the whole weekend feel less like a gauntlet and more like a shared adventure. The goal isn’t perfection; it’s survival with style.

Start with hydration, and start early. Kids dry out faster than a con badge left in the sun, and once they’re thirsty, the meltdown clock starts ticking. A refillable water bottle isn’t optional—it’s your secret weapon against grumpiness.

Food is your next line of defense. Snacking constantly keeps little energy levels steady, and it keeps you from dealing with the dreaded “hangry spiral.” Anything easy to grab works: pretzels, fruit snacks, granola—basically whatever won’t crumble into cosmic dust in your bag.

Now let’s talk sensory overload. Cons are loud, colorful, chaotic, and—let’s be real—kind of overwhelming even for adults. Ear defenders aren’t uncool; they’re sanity-savers. Pop them on when the volume spikes, and watch the world become instantly more manageable for your kid.

Don’t forget the power of a strategic retreat. Your hotel room is more than just a place to stash merch. Consider it as your reset zone. Sneak back for a nap, a snack break, or fifteen blissful minutes of lying face-down on the bed recharging your soul.

Give kids a say in the day, too. Let them choose at least one event or activity. It builds independence, keeps them excited, and gives you leverage when you need to say, “Okay, now we’re doing my thing.”

And yes—rotate the shoes. Little feet (and your own) will thank you. Switching footwear is a tiny trick with big impact when you’re logging miles on con carpets.

Finally, keep your expectations loose enough to bend without snapping. The best moments at a convention are usually the accidental ones: the surprise dance circle, the cosplay meet-up your kid wanders into, the merch booth they fall in love with. Give the day room to breathe, and the magic will find you.

In the End, It's About Connection

Attend C+A+D is all about building memories through shared fandom. Kids will remember the cosplayer who posed with them, the ramen slurped at 9 p.m., or the voice actor who spoke to them like they mattered. Con+Alt+Delete is special because it’s intimate, friendly, and designed for people to bond, laugh, and celebrate.

With the right pacing, flexible expectations, and a sense of adventure, your kids won’t just enjoy the weekend—they’ll absolutely glow with it.

And you? You’ll get to watch that glow happen. Pretty magical.