Families, Kids and First-Timers Guide

What is AVCon?

AVCon: Adelaide’s Anime and Gaming Festival is a community event for fans of anime, video games, tabletop games, cosplay, art, pop culture, and creative fandom.

Across the weekend, you can watch performances, browse Artist Alley, play games, join activities, attend panels, see cosplay, meet guests, explore the show floor, and take part in family-friendly experiences.

You do not need to be an expert to enjoy AVCon. Many attendees come because they like one game, one show, one character, or simply want to try something new.

Is AVCon family-friendly?

Yes. AVCon has plenty for families, kids, and younger fans to enjoy during the day.

Families can explore gaming areas, creative spaces, performances, cosplay, community activities, tabletop games, and Sprite’s Kids Zone. Some areas may be louder, busier, or better suited to older attendees, so we recommend checking the program, reading activity details, and planning breaks throughout the day.

Children should be supervised by a responsible parent, guardian, or carer while at the event.

Kids Tickets

Children aged 12 and under can attend AVCon for free with a valid accompanying ticket holder.

What can kids do at AVCon?

There is plenty for kids and families to explore. Depending on the day and program, this may include:

• Sprite’s Kids Zone
• Arcade games
• Video game free play
• Board game free play
• Retro gaming
• Cosplay viewing
• Family-friendly performances
• Artist Alley
• Creative activities
• Community spaces
• Trading card games
• Beginner-friendly tabletop games
• Guest panels and stage events

For younger attendees, Sprite’s Kids Zone is a great place to start. This open family space on the show floor includes free creative activities, building, games, reading, colouring, crafts, face painting, and visits from Sprite, AVCon’s mascot koala.

What is Sprite’s Kids Zone?

Sprite’s Kids Zone is AVCon’s dedicated family activity space for younger attendees. It is located on the AVCon 2026 show floor and is free to enjoy with your AVCon ticket.

Inside Sprite’s Kids Zone, families can find creative activities, hands-on workshops, games, manga reading, colouring, crafts, face painting, and visits from Sprite, AVCon’s mascot koala. It is a good place to slow down, reset, and give kids activities made with younger fans in mind.

Some activities may run at set times, have limited materials, or pause during the day, so check the Sprite’s Kids Zone page and onsite signage before you go

First time at a convention?

A convention can feel big at first, but you do not need to do everything.

Think of AVCon like a choose-your-own-adventure event. You can watch a performance, play a game, meet artists, take photos with cosplayers who give permission, browse stalls, attend a panel, or just walk around and enjoy the atmosphere.

A good first-time plan is:

• Choose two or three things you really want to do.
• Check the schedule and map before you arrive.
• Leave space for food, breaks, shopping, and unexpected discoveries.
• Pick a meeting point in case your group separates.
• Ask AVCon staff or volunteers if you need help.

What should we bring?

We recommend bringing:

• Your ticket or ticket QR code
• A charged phone
• A portable charger, if you have one
• A water bottle
• Snacks, especially for kids
• Comfortable shoes
• Any medication or sensory supports you need
• A small bag for purchases
• Ear protection for anyone sensitive to noise
• A printed or saved copy of your must-do schedule

AVCon can involve a lot of walking and standing, so comfort matters.

Food, Drinks and Breaks

Plan breaks into your day. Food lines can be busy during peak times, and younger attendees may need downtime between activities.

If you are attending as a family, consider eating earlier or later than the main lunch rush. It can also help to choose a quiet meeting spot where your group can reset before heading back into the event.

Stay hydrated, especially if you are in cosplay or attending for the full day.

Noise, Crowds and Sensory Needs

AVCon can be busy, colourful, and noisy. Some areas may have music, cheering, stage sound, arcade machines, or large crowds.

If you or someone in your group may find this overwhelming, we recommend:

• Bringing noise-reducing headphones or earplugs
• Planning quieter breaks
• Avoiding peak entry times where possible
• Checking the map before moving between areas
• Taking time away from the busiest spaces when needed
• Asking AVCon staff or volunteers for directions or support

You are welcome to enjoy AVCon at your own pace. It is okay to take breaks. To make planning a little bit easier, we have compiled all accessibility information about the venue and AVCon 2026 – check it out over here!

Cosplay and Photos

Cosplay is a big part of AVCon. You will see attendees dressed as characters from anime, games, movies, comics, and more.

Cosplayers are real people, not photo props. Always ask before taking a photo, and respect the answer if someone says no or looks busy. Children should also be reminded to ask before touching props, costumes, wigs, or accessories.

If your child is cosplaying, make sure their costume is comfortable enough for walking, sitting, eating, and using the bathroom.

Shopping at AVCon

AVCon has areas where you can browse art, merchandise, handmade goods, collectables, games, and more.

If you are bringing kids, it can help to set a spending budget before you arrive. Some stalls may accept card, while others may prefer cash or have limited payment options. Internet and payment systems can also be affected by large crowds, so having a backup option is useful.

Panels, Performances and Stage Events

Panels and performances are scheduled activities that happen at set times. Some are casual and beginner-friendly, while others may be focused on specific fandoms, games, guests, or topics.

Check the schedule before the event and arrive early for anything you really want to see. Seating may be limited and popular events can fill quickly.

Games and Tournaments

AVCon includes a range of gaming areas, from casual free play to structured tournaments.

Free play areas are a good option for first-timers and families because you can usually try something without needing to commit to a full competition. Tournaments are better for attendees who want a more competitive experience and are comfortable following rules, brackets, and match times.

Staying Together and Staying Safe

AVCon is a busy public event, so it is worth having a plan before you arrive.

For families and groups, we recommend:

• Choosing a meeting point
• Making sure children know who they are attending with
• Writing a parent or guardian phone number on a card for younger children
• Taking a photo of what your child is wearing that day
• Keeping phones charged
• Speaking to AVCon staff, volunteers, or venue security if you need help

If something feels wrong or you need assistance, please speak to an AVCon staff member, volunteer, or venue security. You will be able to find our official team by their bright red, purple, and blue tshirts around the venue. You can also head to the Information Desk near the entrance and ticketing booth for assistance.

What if my child gets lost?

If a child becomes separated from their parent, guardian, or carer, please notify AVCon staff, volunteers, or venue security as soon as possible. If a child needs help, they should speak to someone wearing official AVCon identification, venue security, or staff at an information point. Before the event, show children what AVCon staff and volunteers look like, and agree on a safe meeting point.

Tips for Parents and Carers

If you are bringing children or younger teens to AVCon, these tips can help:

• Start with the map and choose your first destination before you arrive.
• Do the most important activity first, before everyone gets tired.
• Build in snack, water, and bathroom breaks.
• Avoid trying to see everything in one day.
• Check age guidance for panels, games, screenings, and content.
• Keep costumes practical and comfortable.
• Set spending expectations before entering shopping areas.
• Take photos of favourite moments, but ask permission when photographing other attendees.
• Use quieter areas or breaks when the event feels too busy.

Ready to Plan Your AVCon Adventure?

Start by checking the tickets, schedule, map, and activity pages. Choose your must-do moments, leave room to explore, and get ready for a full weekend of anime, gaming, cosplay, creativity, and community.