Cosplay Contest Rules & Guidelines

 

1. Awards

 

The following awards will be presented:

• 1st Place

• 2nd Place

• 3rd Place

• Best Performance

 

2. Contest Format: Showmanship Only

 

This contest focuses on stage presence, character portrayal, and overall presentation.

• Costume Requirements: Costumes are not required to be handmade. Purchased, commissioned, and personally crafted costumes are welcome.

• Pre-Judging: Pre-judging is not required for participation.

• Stage Presentation: All contestants must participate in a stage walk-on or presentation lasting approximately 60–70 seconds.

 

3. Registration & Contest Requirements

 

Registration

 

All participants must register in person at the Anime Fire Booth before the contest begins. Registration is available on a first-come, first-served basis. Participation may be limited based on available spots.

 

Contestant Check-In

 

All registered contestants must check in at the designated area near the Main Stage at least 30 minutes before the contest begins. Failure to check in on time may result in disqualification.

 

On-Stage Judging

 

Judging will take place during the live contest. All contestants will participate in on-stage judging and will be evaluated based on the following criteria:

• Stage Presence: Confidence, energy, and audience engagement.

• Character Accuracy: How effectively the contestant portrays their chosen character.

• Overall Impact: The effectiveness, creativity, and memorability of the presentation.

 

Winners will be announced on stage following the judges’ deliberations. All judging decisions are final.

 

4. Cosplay Weapons & Prop Safety Policy

 

To ensure the safety of all attendees, contestants, and event staff, all cosplay weapons and props must comply with the following requirements:

• Peace-Bonding: All cosplay weapons must be peace-bonded and inspected at the designated weapons check station before entering the event or participating in the contest, as applicable.

• Prohibited Weapons: Real weapons are strictly prohibited. This includes functional firearms, live steel, and sharpened metal blades.

• Approved Materials: Props should be constructed from safe, lightweight materials, such as EVA foam, Worbla, or lightweight plastic.

• Prop Firearms: All prop firearms must have an orange safety tip and must be incapable of firing projectiles.

• Oversized Props: Large props must be handled responsibly and must not obstruct hallways, restrict pedestrian movement, or create a safety hazard for other attendees.

 

All props are subject to inspection by event staff. Props that do not meet event safety requirements may be prohibited from use or entry at the discretion of event staff.

 

5. Code of Conduct

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All contestants are expected to demonstrate respectful behavior toward fellow participants, judges, event staff, and attendees. Unsportsmanlike conduct, failure to follow event rules, or violations of safety policies may result in disqualification.

By participating in the cosplay contest, contestants agree to follow the rules and instructions established by the event organizers.