Danger is fascinating. Exploring the dark side can be a guilty pleasure, which is why carnivals are so appealing. People pay to be frightened in a safe context and to taste the forbidden through first-hand experience. Invite people to consider the dark side of nuclear danger in a new light with Atomic Con, a nuclear-themed carnival that offers guests of all ages a chance to experience the taboo thrills of fear, making room for courage, play, and collective discovery. Developed by the NSquare Innovation Network, Atomic Con was conceived in order to break down barriers to engagement by inviting participation into the nuclear conversation in an entirely unexpected way. 

1. Incorporate both analog storytelling elements and AR/VR technologies to give guests varied experiences, catering to different age groups and mindsets like Arcadia Earth, an immersive experience about environmental awareness and impact.
2. Maximize social shareability with interactive installations that invite guests to make, take and share their own art or images like Color Factory NYC.
3. Incorporate the artists, craftspeople, musicians and media members of the community where the event will take place to make it locally inclusive and relevant, like Reimagine End of Life, a community-driven exploration of death (and celebration of life) through creativity and conversation featuring events, talks, rituals, food experiences, and comedy shows.  
4. For the ultra curious minds, incorporate hands-on tools like Nuke Map, which maps and calculates the effects of a nuclear bomb detonation.

Image Credit: NSquare