Thousands of Playful Fans & Families Flock to Awesome Con Jr

April 30, 2019 | Nearly 70,000 attendees, including 8,500 kids, took part in hours of fun this past weekend in Washington, DC at LeftField Media’s pop culture convention Awesome Con and Awesome Con Jr, the show’s kid-centric programming and exhibition co-hosted by The Toy Association.

Awesome Con Jr provided families with entertaining and educational programs, interactive experiences, and a wide range of activities to enjoy including character meet-and-greets, kids costume parades, drawing workshops and coloring contests, STEM and virtual reality activities, book readings, and a live animal show with the National Wildlife Federation. Exhibitors included DreamWorks, Spin Master, Safari Ltd., Peaceable Kingdom, T.A.G. Labs, Athletes Without Borders, KIND Bars, Medieval Times, and more.

“Awesome Con Jr delivered as promised,” said Marian Bossard, executive vice president of global market events at The Toy Association. “Kids, parents, and fans of all ages engaged in many amazing experiences and creative play opportunities, while exhibiting brands were able to connect with this playful audience who are looking for innovative and unique toys and games for their families. We are looking forward to our other Jr Con experiences coming up in June and September.”

The Toy Association-LeftField Media’s Big Easy Con Jr. will take place June 1 to 2 alongside Big Easy Con, at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center in New Orleans, LA. Later this year, The Toy Association and LeftField Media will return to Portland, OR to once again host Rose City Jr., a part of Rose City Comic Con, at the Oregon Convention Center from September 13 to 15.

“These B2C events are a valuable addition to any marketing strategy where the driving force is to engage consumers – and potentially make new customers,” Bossard added. “Through these three regional events, toy companies can reach more than 30,000 families and nearly 200,000 fans to deliver a positive message about toys – and the importance of play. There is still time for companies to join us for fun-filled weekends in New Orleans and Portland.”

Looking for more information on how to incorporate B2C events in your marketing program? The Toy Association and LeftField Media recently hosted a free webinar, “Why Your Company Should Participate in a Consumer-Facing Event,” that explored the benefits of a B2C event for toy and game brands. Toy Association members may view a recording of the session online.

Companies interested in becoming an exhibitor or sponsor of either upcoming Jr Con events may contact LeftField Media’s Nalani Whatley.