Photo byRick Drew/ Flicker

Attending Anime Midwest with your family is an exciting adventure filled with fun activities, lively attractions, and engaging events suitable for all ages. I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make the most of your time at Anime Midwest, ensuring a memorable experience for both you and your children.

All About Anime Midwest

Anime Midwest is an annual anime convention held in Rosemont, Illinois, just outside of Chicago. The 2024 event will take place from July 5th to 7th, celebrating Japanese anime, manga, video gaming, and culture. Organized by AnimeCon.org, the convention aims to create an immersive experience that brings the vibrant world of anime to life for fans of all ages. The convention will take place at the Hyatt Regency O'Hare and Stephens Convention Center, conveniently located near the Blue Line, the venue is easily accessible from anywhere in the Midwest.

Top Events

Anime Midwest offers a variety of exciting events that cater to anime enthusiasts of all ages. Whether you're a die-hard fan or new to the anime scene, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Here are some of the top events that you won't want to miss:

• Concerts: Featuring anime theme song covers and original performances, these concerts are a hit with fans of all ages.
• Exhibit Hall: Packed with vendors selling anime merchandise, costumes, DVDs, and more, the exhibit hall is a treasure trove for collectors.
• Arcade Gaming: A gaming room filled with classic and contemporary arcade games, perfect for kids and adults alike.
• Maid Cafe: Experience a slice of Japanese culture with a themed cafe where attendees are served by maids and butlers.
• Rave Dances: High-energy EDM dances with top DJs, creating a vibrant party atmosphere.
• Photoshoots: Cosplayers can participate in organized photoshoots, capturing the creativity and artistry of their costumes.

Kid-Friendly Events, Activities, and Attractions

The convention offers a plethora of events and activities designed with children in mind. Here are some of the highlights:

Kid-Friendly Workshops

• Anime Drawing Classes: Professional artists host workshops where kids can learn to draw their favorite anime characters. These sessions are interactive and tailored to various skill levels, making them perfect for young artists.
• Cosplay Crafting Workshops: These hands-on workshops teach kids how to create their own cosplay costumes and props. It's a great way for children to get creative and prepare for the convention’s cosplay events.

Anime Screenings

Anime Midwest features a lineup of kid-friendly anime screenings throughout the weekend. These sessions are a great way for children to relax and enjoy their favorite shows on the big screen. Titles are carefully selected to be appropriate for younger audiences.

Gaming Rooms

The tabletop and arcade gaming rooms are sure to be a hit with kids. The arcade room features games like Dance Dance Revolution, Taiko Drumming, and more. The tabletop gaming room offers a variety of board games and miniatures games, providing hours of entertainment.

Maid Cafe

While the Maid Cafe might seem like an experience for older attendees, it’s also a fun and whimsical environment for kids. The staff, dressed in maid and butler outfits, provide a charming and engaging dining experience that kids will find delightful.

Photo byRick Drew/ Flicker

Special Guests and Panels

Children can meet their favorite voice actors and industry professionals at guest panels and autograph sessions. These events provide a unique opportunity for kids to ask questions, get autographs, and learn more about the world of anime. This year, Anime Midwest will feature a stellar lineup of special guests, including:

• Raj Ramayya: An Indo-Canadian singer, composer, and lyricist, known for his collaborations with Japanese composer Yoko Kanno on anime like "Cowboy Bebop: The Movie" and "Wolf's Rain."
• Barry Yandell: Recognized for his role as William T. Spears in "Black Butler" and numerous other characters in popular anime series.
• Cris George: A prolific voice actor and director at FUNimation, known for roles in "My Hero Academia," "One Piece," and "Dragon Ball: Super."
• EmpathP: A producer and artist involved in the Vocaloid community, creator of the VOCAMERICA concert project.
• Chris Patton: A veteran voice actor known for characters in "Haikyuu!!," "Fire Emblem," and "Soul Eater."
• Paul Castro Jr: Known for his voice work in "Genshin Impact," "NEO: The World Ends with You," and "BELLE."
• Greg Ayres: With over 376 credits, Ayres is known for roles in "Saiyuki Reload Zeroin," "My Hero Academia," and "Danganronpa."
• Oscar Seung: A versatile actor and musician, with roles in "Attack on Titan," "One Piece," and "Yuri on Ice."
• John Swasey: A long-time voice actor with roles in "Black Butler," "Fullmetal Alchemist," and "Evangelion."
• Quinton Flynn: Famous for roles like Axel/Lea in "Kingdom Hearts" and Raiden in "Metal Gear Solid."
• Kohei: A Japanese singer renowned for his R&B and Soul performances, with appearances at the Apollo Theater.
• Samurai Dan and Jillian: Martial arts instructors specializing in Samurai arts, offering engaging performances and workshops.
• Brian Mathis: Voiced characters in "Ancient Magus Bride," "Fairy Tail," and "Attack on Titan."
• Gareth West: Known for roles in "Haikyu!!," "Food Wars," and "Saint Seiya."
• Alan Shires: A voiceover artist and actor with a wide range of experience in anime, video games, and commercials.
• Rebel and Cleric: A punk/Midwest Emo band known for their anime-themed performances.
• Chris Cason: Voiced characters in "Dragon Ball Z," "Fullmetal Alchemist," and "Hetalia," among many others.

These guests will participate in panels, sign autographs, and interact with fans, offering a chance to delve into the intricacies of voice acting, animation, and the anime industry.

Cosplay Events

Anime Midwest’s cosplay events are family-friendly and encourage participation from attendees of all ages. Kids can dress up as their favorite characters and participate in the cosplay contest or simply enjoy the vibrant costumes on display.

Tips for Parents on Navigating the Convention with Children

Navigating a large convention like Anime Midwest with children can be challenging, but with a bit of planning, it can be a smooth and enjoyable experience. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your visit:

Plan Ahead

Review the event schedule in advance to identify kid-friendly activities and plan your day around them. Prioritize events that your children are most interested in. Purchase your tickets online early to take advantage of discounts and avoid long lines at the venue.

Photo byRick Drew/ Flicker

Pack Essentials

Bring plenty of snacks and water to keep your children energized and hydrated throughout the day. While there are food vendors at the convention, having your own supplies can save time and money. Ensure your kids wear comfortable clothing and shoes, as there will be a lot of walking and standing. Bring small toys, books, or tablets to keep your children entertained during downtime or while waiting in lines.

Safety First

Make sure your children have some form of identification with your contact information. Consider using wristbands or lanyards. Establish a designated meeting point in case anyone gets separated. Make sure your children know where to go and who to contact if they get lost. Keep your children close and avoid letting them wander off on their own. The convention can get crowded, and it’s easy for kids to get lost in the shuffle.

Use the Convention Map

Familiarize yourself with the venue layout and locate important areas such as restrooms, first aid stations, and quiet zones. Identify spots where you can take breaks and let your children rest. These areas can be a lifesaver when kids get tired or overwhelmed.

Engage with the Community

Don’t hesitate to ask convention volunteers for assistance. They are there to help and can provide valuable information and guidance. Connect with other families attending the convention. Sharing experiences and tips can enhance your visit and provide a sense of community.

Additional Events and Attractions

In addition to the main events, Anime Midwest offers a variety of other attractions that are sure to appeal to families:

Tabletop Games

The tabletop gaming room is a great place to unwind and play games with your family. From classic board games like Settlers of Catan to intricate miniatures games, there’s something for everyone. This area is often less crowded than other parts of the convention, making it a good spot for a quiet break.

Photoshoots

Many attendees come to Anime Midwest in cosplay, and organized photoshoots provide an excellent opportunity to capture memories. These photoshoots are not just for the serious cosplayers. Families are encouraged to participate and take pictures together.

Miniatures Games

For fans of wargaming and miniatures, the convention offers sessions where you can learn and play these games. These events are suitable for older children and provide a fun and strategic challenge.

Cosplaying: A Family-Friendly Adventure

Cosplaying, or costume play, is one of the most exciting aspects of attending an anime convention. It involves dressing up as characters from anime, manga, video games, or other media. For many attendees, cosplaying is a way to express their fandom and creativity.

Origins and Relevance

Cosplaying originated in Japan in the 1980s and quickly spread around the world. It has become a staple of anime conventions, where fans showcase their costume-making skills and embody their favorite characters. For kids, cosplaying is a way to step into the shoes of their heroes and engage with the anime community.

Getting Started with Cosplay

Introducing your children to the world of cosplay can be a delightful and enriching experience, sparking their creativity and allowing them to embody their favorite characters from anime, video games, and other pop culture realms. Whether you're a seasoned cosplayer or a newcomer, starting your cosplay journey with your kids can be an exciting family adventure. Here are some tips to help you get started:

• Character Selection: Begin by choosing characters that your children love and feel comfortable portraying. Popular choices often include characters from well-known anime series and video games, ensuring that your kids are enthusiastic and excited about their roles.
• Costume Creation: Making costumes can be a fun family project. Utilize online tutorials and resources to create costumes from scratch or modify existing clothing. For beginners, many affordable pre-made costumes are available for purchase, providing an easy entry point into cosplay.
• Props and Accessories: Paying attention to the details can significantly enhance the overall look of the costume. Props and accessories are essential for bringing the character to life. Ensure that any props are safe and adhere to the convention’s rules to avoid any issues.
• Practice Makes Perfect: Encourage your kids to practice wearing their costumes and posing like their characters. This can build their confidence and make the experience more enjoyable. Practicing also helps them become more comfortable in their costumes, ensuring a great time at the convention.

Photo byRick Drew/ Flicker

Cosplay Etiquette

Teach your children to respect other cosplayers and their costumes. Always ask for permission before taking photos. Remind your kids to be polite and courteous to everyone they meet. Cosplay is a community activity, and kindness goes a long way. Ensure that the costumes are comfortable and suitable for the weather. Bring extra clothing in case your children need to change.

Cosplay Contests

Anime Midwest hosts cosplay contests where participants can showcase their costumes and win prizes. These contests are open to all ages and skill levels, making them a fun and inclusive event for families. Encourage your kids to participate and enjoy the experience, whether they win or not.

Ticket Information

Anime Midwest offers various ticket options to accommodate different budgets and schedules.

• Weekend Pass: This pass provides access to all three days of the convention and is ideal for families who want to experience everything Anime Midwest has to offer.
• Single-Day Pass: For those who can only attend on a specific day, single-day passes are available.
• VIP Pass: VIP passes offer additional perks such as early entry, reserved seating at events, and exclusive merchandise.

Early Bird Discounts

Buying tickets early can save you money. Anime Midwest offers early bird discounts on tickets purchased online before a certain date. Additionally, early ticket buyers may receive exclusive perks such as priority access to popular events and discounted hotel rates.

Group Rates

For families and groups attending the convention together, Anime Midwest offers group rates that provide additional savings. Check the convention’s website for details on group ticket packages and how to purchase them.

See You There!

Anime Midwest is a fantastic destination for families looking to immerse themselves in the world of anime and Japanese culture. With a wide range of kid-friendly events, engaging activities, and unique attractions, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re attending for the first time or returning for another year, Anime Midwest promises an unforgettable experience filled with fun, creativity, and community. See you there!