PhoenixCon 2026: Where Families Can Play, Create & Connect
- TGVG
- May 14
- 2 min read
Updated: May 18
Looking for something truly different to add to your family’s summer calendar?
PhoenixCon in downtown Appleton offers a one-of-a-kind experience where gaming, creativity, imagination, and community all come together under one roof. Taking place August 13–16, 2026 at the Hilton Appleton Paper Valley, PhoenixCon invites families to step into a world filled with games, cosplay, hands-on fun, and unforgettable shared experiences. Whether your child loves video games, board games, fantasy worlds, or simply trying something new, PhoenixCon creates space for every kind of interest.
A Place Where Imagination Comes to Life
PhoenixCon is much more than a gaming convention, it’s a celebration of creativity and connection. Created in 2020 during the height of the pandemic, PhoenixCon began as a way to bring people together through play, creativity, and connection when community mattered most. Today, PhoenixCon 5 proudly continues that tradition, creating a welcoming space where families, gamers, and fans can gather, connect, and celebrate together.
Families can enjoy:
Board games and tabletop gaming
Video games and tournaments
Cosplay contests
Face painting
Kid-friendly activities
Mini golf
Artist and vendor booths
Role-playing games
Special guests and live events
Interactive workshops and community experiences
It’s an environment where kids can express themselves, parents can join in the fun, and everyone can discover something new together.
Fun That Gives Back
PhoenixCon also supports Extra Life benefiting Children’s Wisconsin, making this event not only exciting, but impactful for the wider community.
Encouraging Creativity, Confidence & Community
For many families, PhoenixCon offers more than entertainment. It’s a chance for kids to:
Build confidence through cosplay
Strengthen critical thinking through strategy games
Discover creative hobbies
Connect with like-minded peers
Explore storytelling and self-expression
Parents will appreciate the welcoming atmosphere that encourages family participation rather than simply spectating.
Why It Stands Out
In a season often filled with outdoor activities, PhoenixCon offers something refreshingly unique, a vibrant indoor event where families can unplug from routine, engage their imaginations, and create meaningful moments together.
For families seeking laughter, creativity, and connection, Phoenix Con is a standout addition to summer.
PhoenixCon 2026
August 13–16, 2026
Hilton Appleton Paper Valley, Appleton
This summer, play together, create together, and experience something extraordinary.
Looking to make the most of summer in the Fox Valley and beyond?
The Greater Valley Guide is packed with local events, family-friendly adventures, hidden gems, and community happenings curated to help families connect, explore, and create lasting memories together. Be sure to check out our Calendar of Events for upcoming festivals, fairs, and seasonal celebrations, and be sure to browse our Business Directory filled with local places to shop, dine, play, and discover.
PLUS! For all those road trips and everywhere inbetween, we have FREE Printable Activities available for kids to enjoy along the way.
