DAARIN-KON
โจ The Premier Anime & Cosplay Mini Convention โจ
A full day of anime, cosplay, art, and community
Cosplay Contest
Show off your best costume and compete for amazing prizes on the main stage. All skill levels welcome!
Artist Alley
Browse original fan art, prints, and handmade goods from talented local creators and vendors.
Guest Panels
Live Q&As, workshops, and presentations from our exciting guest lineup throughout the day.
Photo Ops
Strike a pose at themed photo stations and capture unforgettable memories with friends and guests.
Your official entry badge โ $15 per person
๐๏ธ DAARIN-KON Entry Badge
Your badge gets you full access to all panels, artist alley, cosplay contest, and every event at DAARIN-KON. Pick up at the door or pre-order online to skip the line!
Earn these throughout the day with your badge passport!
Star Attendee
Earned at check-in by all attendees
Cosplay Champion
Enter the cosplay contest
Art Collector
Visit 5+ artist alley booths
Panel Master
Attend 3+ panels
Photo Pro
Visit all photo stations
Community Star
Connect with 10+ attendees
DAARIN Legend
Collect all other badges
Find your role in the DAARIN-KON community!
Artist Alley & Vendors
Apply for a table and showcase your work to hundreds of attendees. Portfolio link required.
Convention Volunteers
Join our crew for setup, guest guidance, and event coordination. Exclusive volunteer perks included!
Cosplay Contest
Enter our contest! Categories for craftsmanship, performance, and more. All skill levels welcome.
Apply to be a Cosplay Guest
Are you an experienced cosplayer who wants to be featured as an official guest at DAARIN-KON? Apply to join our guest lineup for panels, meet & greets, and more!
Host a Panel
Got expertise in anime, cosplay, or fandom culture? Pitch your panel idea and share with the community.
Host a Cosplay Meetup
Want to organize a meetup for your fandom? Apply to host an official cosplay meetup at DAARIN-KON and bring your community together!
Event Photographer
Apply to be an official event photographer and have your work featured across our channels.
Become a Sponsor
Put your brand in front of our passionate anime and cosplay community. Sponsorship packages available.
Meet our confirmed cosplay guests for DAARIN-KON 2026!
Biotom27
๐ญ Cosplay Guest
Hi everyone! I'm Biotom27, a guy who loves to bring characters from some of your favorite games, shows and movies to life! I've been cosplaying since 2018 with no signs of stopping, working and playing with foam, 3D printing, and construction techniques in order to properly realize these fictional characters. What inspires me to keep going is seeing everyone's amazement and wonder. It's what started me on this path as a cosplayer and what I want to instill in others. If anyone catches me at the con, I can talk your ear off about Gundam!
kxttykxtty
๐ญ Cosplay Guest
Ani Kay had been fascinated by costuming and cosplay culture since she was a toddler, but spent most of her life under the self-limiting belief that "no one will like a hijabi doing cosplay, and it won't look 'canon', so it's not worth trying personally". When COVID lockdowns rolled out, the social isolation provided what felt like a safe space to try without being judged or scrutinized. Seven years later, that self-limiting belief has been vaporized entirely; the cosplay community was far from the judgemental and nitpicky space she'd expected, and has become a beloved and treasured part of her life. Getting to see herself as characters that inspire her while still remaining true to herself is an incomparable experience, and she hopes to continue cosplaying for the rest of her life. (She thinks she'd kill it as Yubaba from Spirited Away in 30 years!)
luxifer.cos
๐ญ Cosplay Guest
Hi my name is Lucy! I've been a part of the cosplay community since late 2023. My favorite part about cosplaying has been all the new wonderful people that I've met that inspires me to continue. I enjoy yapping with anyone about anything and I've been so grateful for all the friends I've made. I hope to grow more with everyone!
Coming Soon!
Guest TBA
Guest TBA
๐ญ Cosplay Guest
Another exciting guest is about to be announced!
Exclusive DAARIN-KON merch โ pre-order to guarantee availability!
Star Logo Tee
Soft cotton unisex tee with iconic logo
Con Tote Bag
Reusable canvas with full-color print
Event Program
Full color printed guide
Art Print Bundle
3-pack exclusive prints (8x10)
DAARIN-KON is a family-friendly event open to all ages. Please read our dress code carefully before attending!
๐ The Coverage Standard
Think of universally acceptable swimwear as your minimum coverage guide. All areas covered by a bikini top, bikini bottom, or swim trunks must be covered at all times in all public event spaces.
Women / Fem Bodies
Men / Masc Bodies
- Genitalia must be fully covered at all times โ no exceptions.
- Nipples must be covered at all times. Pasties, tape, or opaque fabric all count.
- The majority of the buttocks must be covered. Minimal coverage such as a thong or G-string is not sufficient in a public event space.
- Open or exposed backs are permitted โ back coverage is not required.
- Dance belts or underwear are highly recommended under revealing costumes to ensure nothing is accidentally exposed.
- Sheer, mesh, or see-through fabric does not count as coverage unless lined with opaque material.
- Genitalia must be fully covered at all times โ no exceptions.
- If going shirtless, nipples must be covered with pasties, tape, or opaque fabric.
- If your costume requires minimal bottom coverage (such as a skirt, loincloth, or tight outfit), a dance belt must be worn underneath to prevent accidental exposure.
- The majority of the buttocks must be covered in public event spaces.
- Sheer, mesh, or see-through fabric does not count as coverage unless lined with opaque material.
- Body paint alone does not count as coverage โ opaque fabric or material must be used for required coverage areas.
- Glitter and glitter spray must be sealed to prevent transfer onto other attendees or surfaces.
- No accessories that attach two or more people together (handcuffs, leashes, ropes) are permitted.
- Shoes or adhesive foot coverings must be worn at all times โ bare feet are not permitted.
- Any hate symbols, signs of discrimination, or oppression may not be displayed on any costume or clothing.
- DAARIN-KON reserves the right to refuse entry or ask any attendee to modify their costume for any reason.
Violations of the dress code are taken seriously and may result in any or all of the following:
- Being asked to modify your costume before re-entering the event space.
- Removal from the venue if you are unable or unwilling to comply.
- Ticket/badge invalidation โ no refunds will be issued for dress code violations.
- Repeat or severe violations may result in a permanent ban from future DAARIN-KON events.
Got questions? Tap any question to see the answer.
How much does it cost to attend?
Where can I get tickets?
I want to bring my child โ how does this work?
Are there any age restrictions for attendees?
When and where is DAARIN-KON?
What is the difference between Artist Alley and Dealers?
Dealers market or resell manufactured goods as a business. They use 10x10 booths, may combine multiple booths, pay a higher price, and receive a larger, more customizable space. Dealers go through a verification process but not a jury process.
Dealers may not purchase Artist Alley space; however, artists may apply for dealer space. For our Mini Fest, the Artist Alley and Vendor Hall will be mixed together!
Will there be an Artist Alley and Vendor Hall?
How do I apply for a table or booth?
Will there be guest appearances at the Mini Fest?
Will there be autograph sessions or photo opportunities with guests?
How much will guests charge for autographs and photos?
Can I wear a cosplay?
How do I enter the cosplay contest?
Is the event kid-friendly?
What panels and activities will be at the Mini Fest?
Is there parking available?
What is the bag policy?
Can I buy merch at the event?
I want to help but don't want to be main staff โ how can I help?
How do I apply for anything at DAARIN-KON?
What are your COVID policies for 2026?
Still have questions? Reach out at daarinkoninfo@gmail.com or find us on Discord โ and Instagram @daarinkon โ
Building community through anime, cosplay, and creativity
Our Story
DAARIN-KON was born from a deep love of anime, cosplay, and the incredible communities that form around them. We set out to create an inclusive, welcoming convention experience that truly puts community first.
As a $15-entry event, our mission is to make anime and cosplay culture accessible to everyone, from lifelong fans to curious newcomers. DAARIN-KON is a space where creativity is celebrated, friendships are made, and memories last a lifetime.
The DAARIN-KON Mini Convention brings that vision to life on June 20, 2026, with a full day of panels, artist alley, cosplay, and so much more at 1050 N Westmoreland Rd, Dallas, TX.
๐ Behind the Convention
Kay
Owner & Executive Representative
Our Volunteers
The heart of DAARIN-KON
๐ Our Values
Inclusivity ยท Creativity ยท Community ยท Accessibility ยท Fun for all ages
Support DAARIN-KON and get your brand in front of our passionate community!
For more information reach out to us at daarinkonexecutive@gmail.com
- ๐ Top Tier Exposure
- ๐ข Ad Space
- ๐ Mentioned on our website
- ๐ฑ Social Media Promotion
- ๐ Logo on Con Merchandise
- ๐๏ธ 15 Event Badges
- ๐ฅ Strong Exposure
- ๐ข Ad Space
- ๐ Mentioned on our website
- ๐ฑ Social Media Promotion
- ๐ Logo on Con Merchandise
- ๐ช For Small Businesses
- ๐ Mentioned on our website
- ๐ข Ad Space
- ๐ฑ Social Media Promotion
- ๐ค Community Support
- ๐ Name Recognition
Want to see your brand here? Get in touch with us!
Questions? We'd love to hear from you!
daarinkoninfo@gmail.com
Response within 2โ3 business days
Send a Message
Please read carefully before attending. Safety first โ for everyone!
โ No live, real, or licensed firearms of any kind are permitted at DAARIN-KON โ regardless of licensing or permit status. This is a zero-tolerance policy with no exceptions.
- No functioning prop, replica, or toy capable of firing a projectile, explosive cap, or blank cartridge will be allowed unless the action or mechanism is disabled.
- Airsoft, Nerf, and Paintball weapons must be disabled โ no air puffs or discharge on testing.
- Tampering with any toy or replica weapon to restore or appear to restore functionality is grounds for immediate removal.
- It is ILLEGAL to black out or remove the blaze orange tip from any toy or replica weapon.
- Once approved, prop firearms must remain holstered, slung, or stowed unless posing for pictures or in cosplay events.
- Under NO circumstances may any prop, toy, or replica firearm be pointed at attendees or DAARIN-KON staff. Violators are subject to charges of "Disorderly Conduct" under TPC 42.01(8).
- Metallic, ceramic, or rigid shuriken, throwing blades, chain whips, etc. may only be used if affixed to the costume so they cannot be readily removed.
- No exposed points or edges allowed if any chance of incidental contact exists.
- Foam rubber or plastic replicas may be carried without affixing to the costume.
- "Live Steel" (swords, daggers, battle axes, knives) used as part of a costume must be sheathed AND peace-tied.
- Removal from the sheath is dangerous and will cause removal from the event and/or charges under the Texas Penal Code.
- ALL realistic or "live steel" weapons must be inspected at a weapons check station and have a "safe" tag affixed.
- No metal spears or halberds in the event space โ permitted in authorized posing areas during official posing sessions only.
- Steel and replica weapons purchased at the event must remain packaged until brought to a weapons check station.
โ Actual blunt force weapons (nightsticks, maces, nunchaku, tomahawks, battle axes, etc.) are ILLEGAL and will NOT be allowed under any circumstances.
Prop, foam, practice, and lightweight replicas are allowed provided:
- They remain sheathed, belted, or stowed when moving through any event space.
- Any posing or cosplay participation is conducted safely and courteously.
- Weapons purchased at the event must remain packaged and be transported to your vehicle without delay.
Weapons check stations will be located throughout the event. Ask any staff member for the nearest one.
MANDATORY check items include:
- Realistic or formerly functioning prop, replica, or toy firearms
- Metal swords, bladed, or rigid (heavy) weapons
- Bows and (nonfunctioning) crossbows
- Any replica, practice, or foam blunt force weapons (bats, nightsticks, nunchaku, mace, chain whip, etc.)
Items NOT requiring mandatory checks:
- Walking and mage staffs, shepherd crooks, or canes
- Obviously fantasy-based, inert, or harmless props and weapons
- Training and practice firearms (solid polymer and/or colored models)
- Sports equipment carried as part of a cosplay
Any prop or weapon may be subjected to weapons check at the discretion of staff or law enforcement.
- Coverage: Cosplay must cover what universally acceptable swimwear (bikini or trunks) would cover. Open/exposed backs are permitted.
- Dance Belts & Underwear: Please cover your bits and their contours. Dance belts, underwear, and nude body suits are highly recommended for revealing costumes.
- Sharp Edges: No part of your cosplay should be able to cause injury to someone who accidentally runs into you. Cap, tape, or dull all sharp edges and points.
- Oversized Cosplay: Exceptionally large costumes (wings, pieces beyond arm's reach, impaired vision) must have at least one handler to assist navigation.
- Body Paint & Glitter: Any glitter or glitter spray must be sealed to prevent transfer or shedding.
- Bondage: No accessories that attach two or more people together (handcuffs, leashes, ropes) are permitted.
- Hate Symbols: Any signs or symbols characterized as hate symbols or signs of discrimination are strictly prohibited.
- Official Uniforms: Cosplay that intentionally impersonates local law enforcement, safety personnel, venue staff, or DAARIN-KON staff is strictly prohibited.
- Shoes: The soles of your feet must be protected by shoes or adhesive foot coverings at all times.
- Wheels: Skateboards, roller skates, bikes, and unicycles are allowed outdoors but not inside buildings or crowded areas.
- When posing for a photo, you must move out of the flow of foot traffic. Find an open area or position yourself against a wall.
- Blocking hallways or walkways violates fire safety regulations.
- If posing with props in the open, ensure there is ample room to safely execute the pose.
DAARIN-KON reserves the right to refuse or restrict any cosplay or costume for any reason. We may ask you at any time to change out of or put away parts of your costume. Failure to comply may result in removal from the event.