Family-Friendly Fun at Kanpai!Con 2025

If you're searching for the perfect way to dive headfirst into the world of anime, gaming, and Japanese culture while making unforgettable family memories, look no further than Kanpai!Con 2025! Set to take place from April 18-20, 2025, at the Hilton Omaha, this annual convention promises an immersive, community-driven celebration packed with events and experiences for attendees of all ages—kids, teens, parents, and even grandparents who are young at heart!

A Celebration of Anime and Fandom

Kanpai!Con is a warm and welcoming community-focused festival dedicated to Japanese pop culture, anime, manga, and video gaming. Organized by AnimeCon.org, this event was created to give Omaha’s anime fans an exciting space to unite, explore, and celebrate their favorite fandoms. Unlike many larger conventions, Kanpai!Con emphasizes a close-knit and family-friendly atmosphere, making it the ideal place for families to bond over their love of anime, gaming, and cosplay.

With a mix of fun, interactive activities, celebrity guests, thrilling performances, and educational panels, Kanpai!Con 2025 is an unmissable event for fans of all ages. So, what can you expect when you step into the vibrant world of Kanpai!Con? Read on for a detailed breakdown of the top events and activities that will make your weekend one for the books!

Must-Experience Events at Kanpai!Con 2025

Kanpai!Con 2025 offers a variety of exciting events that cater to all interests, from cosplay to gaming and live performances. Below are some of the key activities you can enjoy during the weekend:

Special Guests – Meet Your Anime Idols

One of the biggest draws of Kanpai!Con is the special guest lineup featuring voice actors, cosplayers, and entertainers from the anime industry. Past guests have included big names like Greg Ayres, Oscar Seung, and Tom Fahn—so get ready to meet the voices behind your favorite characters. Many guests also participate in Q&A sessions, autograph signings, and panels, giving fans an exclusive look into the world of anime and gaming. It’s a perfect chance to ask questions, hear behind-the-scenes stories, and get autographs from the stars that bring your beloved characters to life.

Tabletop and Video Gaming – Play and Compete!

The Tabletop Gaming Room is packed with board games, card games, and RPGs, offering something for every skill level. Whether you're into strategy games, card games, or live-action roleplaying, the variety is sure to please. Meanwhile, video game lovers can test their skills in gaming tournaments or play casually in the dedicated video game area. Whether you're a family of Pokémon trainers, Smash Bros. competitors, or board game enthusiasts, this area is a must-visit. It’s a great way to unwind, compete, and bond with fellow gamers throughout the weekend.

The Grand Cosplay Competition – Show Off Your Creativity!

A highlight of any anime convention, the Grand Cosplay Competition is where talented cosplayers take center stage. Whether you want to showcase your meticulously crafted costume or simply cheer on your favorite characters, this is a must-see event! With experienced judges, spectacular performances, and dazzling outfits, this competition is a fantastic experience for the whole family. Kids are welcome to participate too, making it a great opportunity for family cosplay bonding! Be sure to get there early to claim a good spot and witness the creativity and dedication that go into each costume.

Concerts, Stage Shows, and Dance Events

Kanpai!Con delivers high-energy concerts, electrifying dance parties, and engaging stage performances throughout the weekend. From live music acts covering anime anthems to thrilling game shows where attendees can win fun prizes, there’s never a dull moment. Dance events feature a mix of anime-inspired choreography and live DJ sets, while stage shows bring anime and gaming themes to life in unexpected ways. Don’t miss these high-energy events that keep the excitement going long into the night!

Exhibit Hall – A Shopper’s Paradise

Get ready to explore a wonderland of anime collectibles, cosplay accessories, rare manga, and handcrafted merchandise. The Exhibit Hall is a dream come true for fans looking to add to their collections or discover unique artwork from independent artists. With a mix of official merchandise and fan-made treasures, this is the perfect place to find souvenirs and gifts for fellow anime lovers. From exclusive art prints to plushies of your favorite characters, you’ll find something for every fan and collector.

Karaoke Krypt – Unleash Your Inner Superstar

Have a budding performer in the family? The Karaoke Krypt is your chance to sing your heart out to your favorite anime openings, J-Pop hits, and classic tunes. Whether you’re belting out a dramatic ballad or rallying a group for a fun, offbeat performance, this is an activity guaranteed to bring laughs and smiles. It’s a fantastic opportunity to show off your vocal skills or just have fun with friends and family. The Karaoke Krypt is also a great place to meet new people and cheer on fellow attendees as they take the stage!

Cosplay Prom / Fantasy Ball – A Magical Evening

Families and friends can dress up and dance the night away at the enchanting Cosplay Prom / Fantasy Ball. Whether you’re in formal attire or your favorite character cosplay, this free event (included with your badge) is a great way to experience a touch of elegance while making unforgettable memories. New to ballroom dancing? No worries—dance lessons are provided before the event! You’ll get to enjoy an evening of magic and camaraderie, with the chance to showcase your outfit and socialize with fellow anime enthusiasts in a more relaxed, elegant setting.

Fan-Run Panels – Learn, Laugh, and Explore

One of the most captivating aspects of Kanpai!Con is the fan-run panels, which offer an incredible variety of topics beyond the usual anime and geek culture fare. These panels are hosted by fellow fans, giving you a chance to engage with unique perspectives and explore subjects that you might not typically expect at a convention.

You could stumble upon sessions on digital marketing and discussions on how to harness the power of online tools to promote anything from hobbies to businesses. Or maybe you'll be intrigued by discussions on AI, exploring how artificial intelligence is shaping industries and changing the way we live. If you’ve ever dreamed of launching a business, you might discover a panel about starting your own company or even hear about the best strategies for designing with purpose when transforming spaces in your home, achieving a simpler and more organized lifestyle.

For the wanderlust community, you might uncover a fascinating panel on seasonal activities to look forward to when traveling to Japan, helping you navigate the country with insider knowledge. Similarly, if you’ve been considering making changes to your lifestyle, there might be a session on going vegan or even a guide to basics on hydroponics gardening, teaching you how to create a little green oasis in small spaces.

Some panels might explore practical skills and life hacks, such as learning a second language or fixing your credit score, equipping you with useful knowledge that can make a real difference in your daily life. For those seeking inner peace, there might even be a panel dedicated to meditation, offering tips for finding calm in today’s busy world.

And if you're someone who’s interested in more tech-forward ideas, be prepared to explore virtual reality in classrooms, and how this exciting new technology is changing the educational landscape. Or, perhaps a panel on event planning will show you the ropes for organizing your own conventions, gatherings, or parties!

Tips for Parents Bringing Kids to Kanpai!Con 2025

Attending a convention with kids can be an exciting and memorable experience, but it also requires a bit of planning to ensure everything goes smoothly. Whether this is your first time at a convention or you’re a seasoned attendee bringing little ones along, these tips will help make the most of your time at Kanpai!Con.

Planning Ahead

Before arriving, take some time to review the convention schedule. Look for kid-friendly panels, activities, and designated family areas. While it’s great to have a plan, flexibility is just as important—sometimes kids need breaks, and that's okay!

It’s also a good idea to establish a meeting point in case anyone gets separated. Convention spaces can be large and crowded, so having a designated spot can provide peace of mind. If the convention offers wristbands or ID cards where you can write your contact information, be sure to use them.

Navigating the Convention Space

Conventions can be overwhelming for kids, especially with large crowds and high energy levels. Be mindful of areas that may get particularly packed, such as vendor halls and main event spaces, and take breaks in quieter spots when needed.

If your child is sensitive to loud environments, consider bringing earplugs or noise-canceling headphones. Some families find that visiting early in the day, before peak crowds arrive, helps make the experience more enjoyable.

What to Bring

A well-packed bag can make all the difference during a long day at the convention. Be sure to bring essentials like water, snacks, and hand sanitizer. A small first-aid kit with band-aids and any necessary medications is also a good idea.

Since there’s a lot of walking involved, comfortable shoes are a must for both kids and parents. If your child is cosplaying, consider how practical their outfit is—sometimes an extra change of clothes can come in handy.

Cosplay and Convention Etiquette

Many kids love dressing up as their favorite characters, and conventions are the perfect place for that! Just make sure their costume is comfortable and allows for easy movement. If their outfit includes accessories like masks or props, check the convention’s rules on what’s allowed.

It’s also important to talk about convention etiquette, especially when it comes to interacting with cosplayers. Encourage your child to ask permission before taking photos and remind them to be respectful of personal space.

Taking Breaks and Having Fun

With so much to see and do, it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement. Be sure to take breaks when needed, whether it’s finding a quiet corner to sit down or stepping outside for fresh air. Many conventions also have kid-friendly zones with crafts, games, and other activities designed for younger attendees—these can be a great way to recharge while still having fun.

Most importantly, enjoy the experience! Conventions are a great opportunity to share a love of anime, gaming, and pop culture with your child, creating memories you’ll both cherish.

Ticket Information – Get Yours Early!

Tickets for Kanpai!Con 2025 are expected to sell out fast, so be sure to grab yours early! Purchasing in advance ensures you don’t miss out on the action and allows you to take advantage of early-bird discounts. Be sure to check out the official website for detailed pricing and badge options.

Exploring Omaha – Beyond the Convention

If you’re traveling to Kanpai!Con with your kids, take some time to explore Omaha and discover a variety of family-friendly attractions. The city offers plenty of activities to complement your convention experience, from animal encounters to cultural excursions and great places to dine.

Omaha’s Henry Doorly Zoo & Aquarium is a must-see for animal lovers. Frequently ranked among the best zoos in the country, it offers an immersive experience for visitors of all ages. The zoo is home to a variety of exhibits, including the Kingdoms of the Night, which showcases nocturnal animals, and the Desert Dome, one of the largest indoor deserts in the world. The zoo also features an impressive aquarium, where you and your kids can get up close to aquatic life from around the globe.

For a taste of Omaha’s local charm, head to the Old Market District. This historic neighborhood is full of cobblestone streets, quaint shops, art galleries, and cafes, making it the perfect spot for a leisurely afternoon stroll. You’ll find a variety of family-friendly eateries offering everything from casual bites to more refined dining options. It’s a great place to take a break, grab a bite, and explore the local culture.

Another fun and unique way to explore the area is by walking across the Bob Kerrey Pedestrian Bridge, which spans the Missouri River and connects Omaha to Council Bluffs, Iowa. The bridge is a popular spot for photos and offers an impressive view of both states. It’s an easy walk that the whole family can enjoy, and it’s a fun way to step from one state to another without leaving the city.

If you’re looking to continue the anime vibe while in Omaha, be sure to check out some anime-friendly cafes and restaurants around the city. A few local spots offer themed décor and Japanese-inspired menus, making it easy to continue the otaku experience beyond the convention. Whether you're in the mood for sushi, ramen, or a comforting bowl of udon, you’ll find a variety of dining options that bring a taste of Japan to Omaha.

Cheers to an Unforgettable Kanpai!Con 2025!

Kanpai!Con 2025 is more than just an anime convention—it’s a family-friendly adventure full of excitement, learning, and community. Whether you’re there to cosplay, game, shop, sing, dance, or simply soak in the lively atmosphere, there’s truly something for everyone. So grab your tickets, plan your weekend, and get ready to celebrate anime, fandom, and fun in Omaha this April!