FAN EXPO New Orleans takes place January 5-7, 2023 at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center, uniting fans of all ages for a weekend packed with celebrity encounters, informative panels, and immersive entertainment focused on popular culture, comics, sci-fi, anime, gaming, and more. With nearly 150 panels scheduled throughout the three-day event, there are engaging programs for kids, teens and parents running from morning until the 5 p.m. closing time on Sunday.
Something for Younger Children
Little ones will be thrilled to meet stars from their favorite shows and movies in celebrity Q&A sessions and photo ops. Highlights include hobbit actors like Elijah Wood, Sean Astin, Billy Boyd and Dominic Monaghan from Lord of the Rings and beloved voice actors from classics like Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, and more. Kids can share their fandom face-to-face with Rob Paulsen (Raphael in TMNT), Tara Strong (Bubbles in Powerpuff Girls), Kathleen Herles (Dora the Explorer), and many others.
Fun panels will teach kids about crafting, collecting, and cosplay. They can learn to draw favorite characters in Cartoon Academy, watch/take part in a youth cosplay contest, and more. Plus there are gaming competition that will get the attention of young gamers.
And For Teens
While tweens often showcase impressive cosplay skills, FAN EXPO provides teens with panels to elevate their costume abilities. Experts explain complex costume builds, realistic materials for armor and props, and specialty makeup that transforms you into any character. Teens can get portfolio advice about starting creative careers in gaming, TV, film, and comics.
We’ve taught students who attended FAN EXPO’s earlier Wicked World events and later became professional cosplayers. By applying knowledge from these panels, they turned cosplay into more than a hobby!
Teens can geek out over their favorite anime during Q&As and workshops featuring current and classic voice actors. Big names like Sarah Wiedenheft (Chainsaw Man) and Natalie Van Sistine (Spy x Family) will discuss their voice acting careers. Iconic actors from classics including Naruto, Dragonball Z, Cowboy Bebop, Fullmetal Alchemist and Sailor Moon will share inside stories.
FAN EXPO’s fan panels get deep into fan theories, psychology, and characters from hit properties. Teens (and older young at heart people) can debate plot points, share their OTPs, and hear behind-the-scenes insights from celebrity guests who brought these worlds to life.
We Haven’t Forgot About Us: Parents/Adults
While kids are often awestruck seeing their heroes in the flesh, parents will enjoy panels offering a more nuanced take on popular culture. Sessions explore complex themes in shows like The Walking Dead and also take a scholarly look at how fandoms provide community. Psychology experts analyze characters from Marvel and fan led panels on their favorite media.
For crafty parents, how-to workshops share tips for making detailed cosplay, props, and accessories on a budget. If this isn’t your cup of tea but it is your child’s attend these panels! It is a great way to bond as a family.
Pop culture-themed sessions also provide a fun opportunity for parents to relax, tap into their inner nerd, and forget about adulting for a while. FAN EXPO indulges your enthusiasm and inner child.
Planning Your Experience
To get the most out of FAN EXPO as a family, plot out must-see panels and allows wiggle room for discovering new interests and fan communities. Flag celebrity sessions that each family member would love and make meeting stars effortless by purchasing photo ops and autograph tickets online in advance.
Leave time to browse the show floor and Artist Alley together – you never know what unique finds, handmade goods, and fan art you may uncover. In addition, build in time for photo shoots in cosplay or with celebrity guests. And be sure to sample the vibrant local food scene with a meal break off-site or by grabbing food truck fare at the convention center.
Also, if you are getting autographs or photo-ops, make sure you check the schedule to avoid any double bookings. You can see the event schedule here.
Most importantly, go in with an open mind, wear comfortable shoes, and prepare to make memories to last a lifetime. FAN EXPO New Orleans offers something for every member of the family and brings the best of pop culture into one place for all ages to enjoy.
Check out the full schedule at fanexpohq.com to start planning your ideal itinerary. Badges and select experiences are available now to attend the ultimate family-friendly celebration of fandom!
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