Anime NYC, New York City’s anime convention, has partnered with Scholastic to create Anime NYC Family Zone, a new space dedicated to kid-friendly anime and manga experiences.
This year’s convention is scheduled to take place August 20–23, 2026 at the Javits Center, offering a slate of exhibits, exclusive screenings, panels, and guest appearances by anime creators. Though the convention has welcomed children of all ages in the past, Family Zone will be the first space focused on children’s experiences. Anime NYC’s Family Zone will be open all four days of the convention for young fans and families to enjoy. Guests will be welcomed for age-appropriate panels along with interactive experiences and giveaways from publishers.
MK Goodwin, VP at the convention’s organizer LeftField Media, said in a statement, “As our community grows, we want to make sure new fans can grow with us. We’re committed to creating spaces where new generations can feel welcomed and inspired together with their families.”
As anime and manga continue to gain popularity among young readers, Scholastic is tossing its hat into the ring with Captain Underpants: The First Epic Manga, a manga adaptation of Dav Pilkey’s bestselling Captain Underpants series, illustrated by Motojiro.
David Saylor, senior VP and publisher of Graphix, said, “The Family Zone will provide opportunities for children to get drawn into kid-friendly manga that’s made with kids in mind.”
Tickets are available on the Anime NYC website, including $15 children’s tickets for Sunday, Aug. 23.
