FAQ

About the Show

What Is Planet Anime Kansas City?

Planet Anime Kansas City is the newest convention to be hosted by Planet Promotions, LLC.

As a companion to the March 2023 return of Planet Comicon Kansas City, this anime-focused event will make its debut at the Kansas City Convention Center’s Bartle Hall this fall on October 21st and 22nd, 2023.

Your visit to this new anime-centric destination within our fandom-fueled universe will feature an incredible lineup of anime voice celebrities, exhibitors, special events, a wide ranging schedule of panels, plus amazing cosplay, a cosplay contest, and more to be announced in the coming months.

Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, or Twitter, and subscribe to our email newsletter to stay in touch and learn more about the latest Planet Anime Kansas City news as it becomes available, including information on ticket sales and exhibit space sales.

What are the dates and times the convention is open to the public?

October 21 – Sat: 10AM – 7PM, October 22 – Sun: 10AM – 5PM

Does the convention open early for any types of public admissions?

Yes. Some classes of admissions may be admitted ½ hour early on Saturday. Currently this only applies to Red Panda Pass admission holders.

Where will Planet Anime Kansas City be held?

Planet Anime Kansas City will be held at Bartle Hall, which is part of the Kansas City Convention Center. Bartle Hall is located in downtown Kansas City at 301 West 13th Street, Kansas City, MO 64015.

What is accessibility like for the Convention Center?

The Kansas City Convention Center is dedicated to providing an accessible and enjoyable experience to all patrons including services for those who may need auditory, visual or mobility assistance. For full information regarding the center’s offerings, please visit their website by clicking here.

Who is the organizer of Planet Anime Kansas City?

Planet Anime Kansas City is owned and promoted by Planet Promotions, LLC.

Admission

How can I get tickets to Planet Anime Kansas City?

On the home page please see the Purchase Tickets button.

To get the latest news about Planet Anime Kansas City admissions; subscribe to our email updates.

Tickets will be available for sale during the convention.

The Box Office will be at Bartle Hall in Lobby 2300 in the hallway down from the 2200 lobby. Will Call is located in the same area. Entrance to PAKC will be through the 2200 lobby of Bartle Hall, on the South side of 13th Street between Broadway and Central. Will Call, for picking up advance purchases, will be in the 2300 lobby.

Do I need to bring cash, or can I use debit/credit cards?

We suggest you bring cash if possible. Some exhibitors (including comic creators, crafters, and vendors) and media celebrities will accept only cash. Others will be able to accept credit and debit cards. If you run short on cash, ATMs will be available in the exhibit hall, mostly near the Celebrity Row toward the south end of the exhibit hall. Please keep in mind that there are limits on what can be withdrawn from an ATM. Generally, it is $200 per transaction.

You will be able to use debit/credit cards for some things, including admission, concessions, and many (but not all) vendors.

I’ve bought tickets online. When and where can I pick up my admission credential (generally a wristband)?

When you purchase advance admission, you will receive a confirmation email that you use to access a QR code. Bring that QR code message (or a version that you have sent to your phone) to the Will Call desk where you will receive wristbands. The wristband is your credential for admission to Planet Comicon Kansas City. Once attached, it cannot be removed. If you have a weekend admission, the wristband must be worn all days. It cannot be removed and reattached. A wristband that has been removed is void and not valid for admission. The Will Call booths will be open during these hours (subject to change):

2300 Lobby Bartle Hall, located on the south side of 13th Street between Broadway and Central. Thursday only, for your convenience, 13th Street will be closed and monitored so you can park while you pick up your credentials.

Show days – 2300 Lobby Bartle Hall – Will Call hours:

Friday October 20 11 am – 8 pm

Saturday October 21 8 am – 7 pm

Sunday October 22 8 am – 5 pm

We encourage you to pick up early at one of our off site locations (TBD) on Thursday (11am – 6:30pm) before the day you plan to attend at Bartle Hall to avoid the morning Will Call line on the day of the show you plan to attend. Once you have your wristband you can go directly to the credentialed line to enter the show.

Where will the Will Call booths be located?

The main Will Call booth will be located at the 2300 Lobby of Bartle Hall. This lobby is located on the south side of 13th Street between Broadway and Central.

There are several lines in one close area – what line should I get in?

We do have several lines for admissions and purchases: please review to determine which line you should be in before you arrive at the show.

Non Credentialed – you don’t have your credential wristbands.

Credentialed entry – you have your credential wristbands.

Box Office – Will be located at the Bartle Hall in Lobby 2300.

Entry is at the southwest corner of Central and W 13th St. Will Call – Lobby 2300

General – Enter Lobby 2200 – line starts at the bottom of 2300 lobby east escalator. Follow Hot Pink themed signage.

Red Panda Pass/VIP Packages Enter Lobby 2300. Entry to the show will be 2300 East Escalators. Follow Orange themed signage.

Still not sure? Ask a crew member and they will help guide you to the proper line.

Can I have someone else pick up my wristbands for me?

Yes, someone other than the person who made the purchase can pick up their wristbands. Just be sure they have your confirmation email (paper or a version that you have sent to their phone) when they come to the Will Call desk. The wristband is your credential for admission to Planet Anime Kansas City. Once attached, it cannot be removed. If you have a weekend admission, the wristband must be worn all days. It cannot be removed and reattached. A wristband that has been removed is void and not valid for admission. Will Call hours are posted above.

Can my spouse and I pick up our wristbands at different times?

Yes, you can split you order wristband pick up. Just be sure each person has the confirmation email (paper or a version that you have sent to your phone) when they come to the Will Call desk. The wristband is your credential for admission to Planet Anime Kansas City. Once attached, it cannot be removed. If you have a weekend admission, the wristband must be worn all days. It cannot be removed and reattached. A wristband that has been removed is void and not valid for admission.

How will lines during peak times to get credentials and into the show be handled?

We are working hard to set up queueing to be flexible during the peak times. We are not planning on using underground tunnels unless we have extreme weather conditions. Instead, we will queue Will Call Line on closed 13th street between Central and Broadway. Depending on the weather, the line may extend into Bartle Hall 2200 areas (across 13th street or go north on the west side of Central).

To avoid long lines to get your credentials (Will Call and Box Office) prior to the show opening each day:

Take advantage of Thursday’s extended Will Call hours to pick up your credentials early!
Will Call 2300 Lobby Bartle Hall will be open Friday October 20th 11 am – 8 pm
- Show days October 21 – 22, open 2 hours before show opens to show close.
- Box Office in 2300 Lobby.
Consider picking up your Saturday/Sunday credentials later in day Friday or Saturday when lines are shorter, so you can go directly to the proper credentialed (general public or Fast Pass) line on the day you attend the show

I purchased a Weekend pass; will I need to wear my wristband both days?

Yes. The wristband is your credential for admission to Planet Anime Kansas City. Once attached, it cannot be removed. If you have a weekend admission, the wristband must be worn all days. It cannot be removed and reattached. A wristband that has been removed is void and not valid for admission. The wristbands are water resistant and stronger than they appear, strong enough for regular wear and tear over the course of three days.

Can I get a refund if I can’t make it to the show after I make my purchase?

All Advanced purchases for our October 21-22, 2023 show are non-refundable.

If I leave the show, can I get back in?

Yes, your admission credential (wristband) does allow for reentry to the show on the days that the credential is valid. For example, if you have a Sunday wristband, you may leave the show and re-enter at any time during public show hours on Sunday.

What if I lose my wristband?

Lost wristbands will not be replaced. Should you damage your wristband, bring it to the Will Call desk with your identification and we will confirm your purchase and replace it.

Are the wristbands water resistant?

Yes, the wristband are water resistant and stronger than they appear. The wristband is your credential for admission to Planet Anime Kansas City. Once attached, it cannot be removed. If you have a weekend admission, the wristband must be worn all days. It cannot be removed and reattached. A wristband that has been removed is void and not valid for admission.

I have already purchased my Weekend pass and now see a promotion with a merch package. Can I take advantage of the promotion package?

Yes, as long as the new admission item price is higher than your existing purchase. Open your email receipt and click on “Upgrade”. When you select the promotion package, you can upgrade to the package by paying only the difference (plus taxes and fees).

Do I need to get a ticket for my 6 year old?

No, admission for children under the age of 8 is free.

We do offer a complimentary wristband upon request for children under 8 at Will Call and the Box office (while supplies last).
Help us keep you and your family together. We suggest for smaller children you write your name and phone number on the back before having them wear it.

Should you become separated, we can call you directly to reunite your family so you can continue to enjoy the show.

With there be a coat check or lockers available during the show?

Yes, lockers will be available for a fee. We will post its location as we get nearer the show.

Do I need to bring cash or can I use debit/credit cards?

Bring cash. Some vendors, artists, and celebrities cannot accept credit or debit cards. If you run short on cash, ATMs will be available in the exhibit hall. You will be able to use debit/credit cards for some things, including admission, concessions, and many (but not all) vendors.

Will the creator and media guests be charging for their autographs?

Most comic book creator guests do not charge for autographs; however, some will charge a fee. It is at the discretion of the guest. In an effort to keep the lines moving, many creators will place a limit on how many autographs will be given to a single individual at one time. After that time, they may begin to charge or ask that you get back in line. Be respectful of the guests and your fellow convention attendees. All media guests will be charging for their autographs. Prices for autographs and photo opportunities are at the guest’s discretion.

Can I make contact with the guests?

Planet Anime Kansas City is dedicated to providing a safe and fun environment for all fans. Toward that goal, PAKC has adopted guidelines respecting the feelings and personal space of others.

Please respect everyone’s personal space. Do not touch, hug or make any sort of unwanted physical contact with any person, including guests, attendees, exhibitors, volunteers, contractors and staff, without the proper permissions. This policy has always been in place at Planet Anime. Please be respectful of all persons at the show!

Please see PAKC’s Anti-harassment Standards Page for full policies and procedures.

Concessions

Do I need to bring cash or can I use debit/credit cards?

Will there be food/beverages available for sale at Planet Anime Kansas City?

Yes, attendees will have access to multiple food and beverage options in the exhibit hall and near some of the panel rooms.

Cosplay/Costuming

Will there be costuming at Planet Anime Kansas City?

Check back for more information. We will post here once we have an update.

What is the policy on props?

You can read our latest updates to our weapon and prop policy on its own page by clicking here.

Is there a dress code for the show?

We are a family-friendly show. Clothing and costumes should not exceed PG-rating standards. No nudity, profanity, or abusive content. Use common sense. Shoes must be worn at all times (no bare feet).

Planet Anime Kansas City COVID-19 Statement:

There will NOT be a mask mandate for Planet Anime Kansas City unless required by ordinance per the City of Kansas City, Missouri. There is no mask mandate currently in place for the city.

2023 COVID GUIDELINES FOR PLANET ANIME KC

The health and safety of all participants is priority at Planet Anime KC and all Planet Promotions, LLC events. To promote a safe experience, we are following the state, county, and CDC guidelines. It is important to recognize there is, however, an inherent risk of exposure to COVID-19 in visiting any public place where people are gathered.

Following these guidelines and expectations, we currently will not be requiring proof of vaccination or mandatory masking for Planet Anime KC 2023.

However, due to the unpredictability of COVID-19, show management and Planet Promotions, LLC, reserves the right to adjust restrictions and requirements for entry to the event closer to the convention as required by the CDC and/or local guidelines.

Please be aware that some guests may require masks be worn during interactions with fans including, but not limited to, panels, autographing, and photo ops. We will share that information as we receive it.

We do recommend that masks be worn indoors. We expect all attendees to treat each other with respect, whether they choose to wear or not wear a mask. We also continue to recommend proper hand washing hygiene, and proper sanitation.

We appreciate everyone doing their part to ensure Planet Anime KC will be a safe and welcoming environment for all.

We encourage you to revisit this page prior to traveling to the event as we will be constantly re-evaluating and reviewing protocols as they relate to current COVID-19 status.

Entrance

Where should we enter Bartle Hall?

The General admission entrance to Planet Anime Kansas City is through the 2200 Lobby of Bartle Hall, which is located on 13th Street between Central and Broadway. However, there are several lines, some which extend outside of the building. Please see “There are several lines in one close area – what line should I get in?” above so you know which line to get in.

Exhibitors/Artists Alley

I’m interested in a Vendor Booth, an Artists Alley table or a Crafter table. Are there any available?

You can order fill out an application for Exhibitor space, including booth spaces, Artists Alley tables and Crafter tables online. We will notify you of status based on our current inventory/availability. See our Exhibitors page for more information. All information related to exhibitor space can be found there. Exhibitors include those wishing to exhibit in Artists Alley and Crafter Alley.

What Exhibitors/Vendors will be at the show?

We try to list attending vendors on our website as the show approaches. See the Exhibitor Listing tab under the Exhibitor Button on the Nav Bar. They will also be listed in the Planet Comicon Kansas City mobile app. If there is a vendor you’d like to see at the show, let them know about us; tell them you’d like to see them come to Planet Comicon Kansas City.

I want to set up a table and sell at the show; who do I contact?

See our Exhibitors page for more information. All information related to exhibitor space can be found there.

Family

What are your policies concerning minors?

We encourage people of all ages to come enjoy Planet Anime Kansas City. Comic books, cartoons, anime, video games and pop culture have appeal for all ages. However, in order to make Planet Comicon Kansas City a safe and enjoyable environment for all, we require that all attendees under the age of 13 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian who is a registered attendee of Planet Anime Kansas City at all times (limit of four (4) 12 years and under youth/kids for each paid adult). Please direct all specific inquiries to the Will Call staff at the convention.

Can you page a family member for me during the show?

Our paging system is for show communications and emergency use only. We suggest you designate a meeting place once at the show, so if you are separated all family members will know where to find each other. Cell phones will work within the exhibition area and we encourage you to carry them.

For children under 8, we offer a complimentary wristband upon request for children under 8 at Will Call and the Box office (while supplies last). To help us keep you and your family together. We suggest you write your name and phone number on the back before having them wear it. Should you become separated, we can call you directly to reunite your family so you can continue to enjoy the show.

Gaming

Will there be gaming at Planet Comicon Kansas City?

Check back for updates.

Guests

Will there be an appearance schedule for the guests?

All guests will be present at Planet Anime both days unless otherwise noted. Check the media guests, comic creators, and cosplay guest’s pages for information about a particular guests or attraction. We will post a chart of autograph and photo opportunity pricing as the show approaches. Also, checkout out the information on availability of autographs and photo opportunities and an explanation of the types of photo opportunities available.

Harassment

What do I do if I am being harassed or see someone else being harassed at Planet Anime?

Planet Anime Kansas City is dedicated to providing a safe and fun environment for all fans. Toward that goal we have adopted guidelines for respecting the feelings and personal space of others. Please see the Anti-harassment Standards page for our policies and procedures. To report harassment please find the nearest Planet Anime Kansas City volunteer or security personnel. They will direct you to an information desk or security center. If you feel your safety or the safety of others is in jeopardy please contact the Kansas City Police Department at 911 if there is an emergency. For your own safety, if you feel that you are being harassed in a non-emergency situation please report your problems to us before anyone else. If you cannot find a staff, crew, or volunteer member to assist you, please go to the information desks located near registration or just inside the entrance of the exhibition floor. Please report to us before taking matters into your own hands (such as personally confronting the aggressor or posting on social media). We have professional security on site and they are properly equipped for these contingencies.

Hotels

Where can I stay during Planet Anime Kansas City?

There are plenty of hotel rooms available in the Kansas City area. Planet Anime Kansas City has booked a block of rooms at The Crowne Plaza Hotel at preferred rates. Please click HERE to get to the reservation page. For the most complete information about rooms available in our hotel blocks, please go to our Hotels page.

Location

Where is Planet Anime being held?

Planet Comicon will be held at Bartle Hall, which is part of the Kansas City Convention Center, 301 West 13th Street, Kansas City, Missouri 64105. This is located in downtown Kansas City, Missouri. Planet Comicon Kansas City will occupy Halls D & E of the Bartle Hall, as well as many of the building’s meeting spaces, such as the Grand Ballroom and the Great Hall. See the When & Where page of our Planet Comicon Kansas City site, at the following link, which will also have a map of the convention added at some point before the show.

Parking

Where should I park for the show?

We will post parking options once they become available.

Pets/Service Animals

Can I bring my pet to the show?

No. Only service animals are allowed in the venue.

Photographs

Will the guests be available for photographs?

Most guests will be available for photograph opportunities with fans. With comic creator celebrities most will be available at their table or booth for photos with no fee. Some may charge a small fee. It is up to the individual creator. As to media celebrities, all will offer photograph opportunities with fans. Some will only do “professional photo op” using the professional photographer who will be on site. Others will offer the opportunity for “selfies” at their booth with the fans camera (which we refer to as “table photo ops”). Many will offer both. There are generally fees for ALL photo opportunities, whether professional or selfies, with celebrity guests. Each celebrity guest sets their own rules. See the Celebrity Autographs and Photos page for more information.

Can I take pictures and video at the show?

Yes, you can, however, there are some rules. Please use common sense. If someone doesn’t want their picture taken or put on video, please respect their wishes. The same holds true for our guests. They are our guests, and have a right to their privacy, so be nice. Many of our vendors in the Dealer’s Room don’t like to have people take pictures of their set ups, so be sure to ask first. And some of our guests charge for photos, so be sure to ask first! Basically, the answer is, Ask First! Remember, trying to take a picture of one of our guests from a distance may seem harmless to you, but they may not want you to do it. Also, when taking pictures of people in costume, or your friends, please be sure to angle yourselves so that you are not taking a picture across an aisle. When you do that, everyone has to stop and wait for you to take the picture. If you move so that you are both on the same side of the aisle and take the picture in the direction of traffic flow, then people can move past you and you don’t stop the flow of traffic. Filming is prohibited during any film screenings and some panels. Announcements will be made at the beginning of each panel as to whether filming of a particular panel is allowed. Generally filming is allowed of all panels except some panels which include certain celebrity guests who have requested that their panel not be filmed. We do reserve the right to limit filming of an event based on a specific guest’s wishes. If you do take some great pictures and video (when allowed), let us know. Send us a copy and we’ll put it on our website for the world to see.

WE DO NOT ALLOW GENERAL PHOTOGRAPHY IN THE CELEBRITY AREA: While we encourage fans to take photographs in almost every area of the convention, we do not allow general photography in Celebrity Row without specific permission of the particular celebrity you wish to photograph. For instance, there is no photography of a celebrity sitting at their table taken when you are in the aisle 20’ away. In the Celebrity Row area of the Exhibit Hall, please do not take photographs of celebrities without specific and express permission of that celebrity. This includes both still and video photography.

NO VIDEO OR STILL PHOTOGRAPHY
IN THE CELEBRITY AREA
WITHOUT EXPRESS PERMISSION.

Programming

Will there be panels and other programming during the convention?

Yes! We have an extensive selection of programming, with many tracks of programming happening all day long. There will be celebrity panels which will include most media celebrities attending the show. There will be creator panels including many of the attending creators. There will be cosplay and prop building panels, as well as other offerings. We will post the panel programming schedule 4 to 8 weeks prior to the show.

Is there an extra charge to attend a panel?

Most of the events at Planet Anime are included with your general admission ticket. There are a very few workshops or special events that may require an additional fee. Any events that require an additional fee will be clearly marked on the schedule and event announcements.

I would like to host my own panel. Is that possible?

Panel requests will be posted at a later date.

FAQ