Supporting Local: Visit Happy Trails Medicinals

At Shawano Sports Park, we love highlighting great local businesses—and Happy Trails Medicinals is one we wholeheartedly recommend. Located at N4531 WI-22 Suite 2, Shawano, WI 54166, this welcoming wellness shop was founded by Kayla, who turned her own health journey into a mission to help others.

Since opening in 2018, Happy Trails has grown to three Wisconsin locations and two distribution centers, including one in Texas. Their focus is simple and inspiring: provide natural, plant-based remedies and partner only with trusted brands that put people first.

cbd pain relief

If you’re visiting our park and looking for high-quality CBD products, make sure to stop by Happy Trails. They proudly carry Quiet Monk CBD topical creams, known for fast-absorbing, powerful relief for sore muscles, joints, and everyday wellness.

Supporting Happy Trails Medicinals means supporting a neighbor who cares deeply about health, community, and natural healing. We’re proud to recommend them as part of the Shawano area’s vibrant local business family.…

Angie’s Main Café: A Classic Shawano Gathering Place Just Minutes from the Park

SHAWANO, Wis. – Less than five minutes from Shawano Sports Park, Angie’s Main Café has been a breakfast and lunch staple for locals and travelers alike. Located at 130 S. Main Street in downtown Shawano, this family-run restaurant blends small-town warmth with big flavor—making it a natural mention for visitors headed to a sports tournament, cosplay festival, or charity run at the park.

A True Shawano Tradition

For decades, Angie’s Main Café has served hearty Midwestern classics: fluffy pancakes, scratch-made soups, and daily specials that feel like a home-cooked meal. Weekend mornings often see a friendly crowd of families, softball teams, and cyclists fueling up before a day outdoors.

Perfect for Event Attendees

The café’s location means attendees of the October 12, 2025 Regional Cosplay Festival at Shawano Sports Park can enjoy a relaxed breakfast before the festivities or stop in for a late lunch once the costume contest wraps. Its quick service and welcoming vibe make it ideal for groups and visiting vendors.

Supporting Local Connections

Highlighting a beloved spot like Angie’s Main Café on the sports park’s website or event materials celebrates Shawano’s community spirit. By steering visitors downtown, the park helps strengthen the link between local recreation and local commerce, ensuring that big events bring lasting benefits to small businesses.

Plan Your Visit

  • Address: 130 S. Main Street, Shawano, WI 54166

  • Hours: Breakfast and lunch service daily (check current hours before visiting)

  • Specialties: All-day breakfast, homemade pies, and seasonal comfort dishes

Whether you’re suiting up for a softball double-header or a superhero photo shoot, Angie’s Main Café offers a welcoming table and a taste of Shawano hospitality.…

woman with cosplay costume holding sword

Shawano Sports Park to Host First Regional Cosplay Festival on October 12, 2025

SHAWANO, Wis. — Fans of anime, gaming, fantasy, and creative costuming have a brand-new reason to gather this fall. On Sunday, October 12, 2025, Shawano Sports Park (1056 East Green Bay Street, Shawano, WI 54166) will transform from a classic sports venue into a vibrant hub of pop culture as it hosts its first-ever Regional Cosplay Festival.

A Sports Park with a Creative Twist

Known for baseball diamonds and multi-use fields, Shawano Sports Park is no stranger to big crowds.
But this October, the focus shifts from home runs to heroic capes. With its open green spaces, covered pavilions, and indoor event rooms, the park provides the perfect canvas for an all-day celebration of costuming and fandom.

This is part of a growing Midwest trend: sports parks stepping in as convention hosts when large, dedicated convention centers are limited or booked. Parks like Shawano’s combine easy parking and spacious facilities with the charm of an outdoor autumn setting—ideal for dynamic cosplay photography and themed activities.

Event Highlights and Schedule

The festival promises a full day of fun for families, creators, and fans alike.
A preliminary schedule includes:

  • 10:00 a.m. – Opening Ceremony & Parade of Characters
    Costumed attendees gather at the main pavilion for a welcome and a short procession through the park.

  • 11:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. – Photo Shoots & Meetups
    Designated photo zones in shaded areas and along the scenic edges of the sports fields give photographers and creators ample space for stunning shots.

  • 12:30 p.m. – Cosplay Contest
    Participants compete in categories such as Best Anime, Best Fantasy, Best Duo/Group, and Kids’ Favorite, with local judges awarding prizes.

  • 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. – Workshops & Panels
    Topics range from prop-building basics and foam-smithing to social-media growth tips for creators.

  • 4:30 p.m. – Charity Costume Run & Group Photo
    A fun run benefiting local youth art programs caps the day, followed by a group photo at sunset.

Food trucks, artisan vendors, and a family-friendly “create-your-own mask” craft area will keep visitors of all ages entertained throughout the day.

Why Cosplayers Love Outdoor Venues

Cosplay photography thrives in natural light and wide-open spaces. Shawano Sports Park offers:

  • Expansive fields for group battles or superhero team shots

  • Tree-lined areas for fantasy or woodland themes

  • Covered pavilions to protect delicate costumes and props from unexpected weather

For creators who share their art online—whether on Instagram, TikTok, or subscription platforms—this combination of scenic variety and convenience is pure gold.

A Boost for Local Culture and Small Business

Beyond the fun, the festival is poised to support local makers and vendors.
Expect booths featuring:

  • Handmade costume accessories and props

  • Local comic artists and illustrators

  • Specialty food and beverage vendors

  • Community arts organizations raising funds and awareness

This collaboration underscores how creative events can drive local economic activity while strengthening community ties.

Connecting Local Fun to a Global Fan Base

For those who want to take their cosplay passion beyond the park, BestCosplayCreators.com will play a key supporting role.
The site offers:

  • Step-by-step guides for growing a cosplay following online

  • Spotlights on top creators who’ve turned their costumes into careers

  • Tips for safe and smart content sharing

Including this resource in event materials ensures that local talent can shine far beyond Shawano, turning one day of fun into lasting creative momentum.

Practical Information

  • Date: Sunday, October 12, 2025

  • Time: 10:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.

  • Location: Shawano Sports Park, 1056 East Green Bay Street, Shawano, WI 54166

  • Admission: Free for spectators; optional contest entry fee for participants

  • Parking: On-site lot with overflow parking nearby

  • What to Bring: Costumes, props, comfortable shoes, and a camera for memories

Organizers recommend early arrival for those entering the costume contest or participating in the charity run.

A Celebration of Creativity and Freedom of Expression

At its heart, the Shawano Regional Cosplay Festival is more than a meet-up.
It’s a celebration of free expression—an opportunity for people of all ages to embody the characters and stories they love, to create without judgment, and to share their artistry openly.

As autumn leaves set the backdrop, Shawano Sports Park will prove that a sports field can be a canvas for imagination and community spirit.

Shawano Sports Park at 1056 East Green Bay Street in Shawano, WI isn’t just for league play and tournaments—it’s a flexible venue that often opens its doors to non-sports events. Across the Midwest, parks with pavilions and wide green spaces fill the gap when convention centers are scarce. That makes this park an ideal spot for pop-culture gatherings such as anime or gaming conventions, cosplay meetups and photo shoots, fantasy or LARP (live action role-play) weekends, and even charity costume runs. For creators and fans alike, a regional cosplay festival or outdoor photo day here could spark incredible content and community connections. Looking for inspiration or resources to make the most of such an event? Explore BestCosplayCreators.com for guides, tips, and featured creators ready to turn local cosplay moments into global fan experiences.

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Play Hard. Laugh Loud. – Creating Memories That Last

The essence of life lies in collecting memories, not material possessions, and the motto “Play Hard. Laugh Loud.” reminds us to do exactly that. Playing hard is about immersing yourself fully in every experience, giving 100% effort, and living in the moment. It could mean chasing your dreams, trying out adrenaline-pumping sports, or simply engaging wholeheartedly in your favorite pastimes. When you play hard, you create a lifestyle filled with adventure and accomplishment, making every day feel more meaningful.

Laughter complements this philosophy beautifully. It is often said that laughter is the best medicine, and for good reason. It heals the soul, strengthens relationships, and turns ordinary moments into extraordinary memories. Whether it’s laughing until your stomach hurts during a family dinner, exchanging inside jokes with friends, or enjoying a stand-up comedy night, laughter creates connections that last a lifetime. The sound of shared joy becomes a reminder of moments that truly matter.

To embody this approach, it’s important to carve out time for both personal passions and social fun. Plan trips that combine excitement with relaxation, organize group activities, or dedicate weekends to trying new hobbies. Embrace spontaneity by saying yes to adventures you’ve never tried before. Make laughter a daily habit—watch funny videos, surround yourself with uplifting people, and never hesitate to find humor in everyday situations. These simple choices make life lighter and happier.

At its core, “Play Hard. Laugh Loud.” is an invitation to live fully, love deeply, and create a life rich with joy. It reminds us that happiness isn’t found in things—it’s found in moments shared, adventures taken, and laughter enjoyed. So, dive into life’s experiences with enthusiasm and let laughter be the soundtrack of your journey.

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Play Hard. Laugh Loud. – Finding Joy in Every Moment

Life is not just about working hard and meeting deadlines—it’s about finding the perfect balance between productivity and enjoyment. The phrase “Play Hard. Laugh Loud.” encourages us to make time for the things that make us truly happy. Playing hard means dedicating time to activities that fuel your passion, whether it’s sports, music, travel, or creative pursuits. By immersing yourself in these experiences, you not only relieve stress but also rediscover your inner spark and zest for life.

Equally important is the power of laughter. Laughter connects people in ways words often cannot. It breaks down barriers, lightens the mood, and transforms tense situations into enjoyable ones. Whether you’re sharing jokes with friends, watching a comedy show, or laughing at life’s unexpected moments, it creates a sense of belonging and happiness. In fact, psychologists suggest that laughter triggers positive emotions, which directly improve both mental and physical health.

To live by this motto, it’s important to prioritize experiences over distractions. Spend weekends trying new adventures, like hiking trails, beach activities, or exploring nearby attractions. Engage in playful moments with loved ones, attend concerts, or plan surprise outings. Surround yourself with people who inspire joy and encourage positivity. Even simple gestures like playing board games or watching a funny movie can help create memorable bonds filled with laughter.

“Play Hard. Laugh Loud.” teaches us that life is too short to be lived in monotony. By seeking fun, embracing humor, and cherishing lighthearted moments, we add richness and meaning to our everyday experiences. So, chase excitement, treasure laughter, and create stories worth telling. After all, the best memories are made when we give ourselves permission to live fully and happily.

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