Cosplay Contests

Please review all contest rules and policies so you can be ready to hit the stage in your best cosplay at Anime Fiesta!

CONTEST TIMES

Please note - Only prize eligible cosplays will be pre-judged, however all contestants must meet at the Chibi Stage during pre-judging to line up.

FRIDAY OCT 4

  • Registration: 11:00AM-4:30PM at the Info Booth *No late entries!*

  • Pre-Judging: 5:00PM at Chibi the Stage

  • Contest Start Time: 6:00PM at Main Stage

SATURDAY OCT 5

  • Registration: 10:00AM-3:00PM at the Info Booth *No late entries!*

  • Pre-Judging/Lineup: 3:30PM at the Chibi Stage

  • Contest Start Time: 4:40PM at the Main Stage

SUNDAY OCT 6

  • Registration: 10:00AM-3:30PM at the Info Booth *No late entries!*

  • Pre-Judging/Lineup: 4:00PM at the Chibi Stage

  • Contest Start Time: 5:00PM at the Main Stage

HOW THE CONTEST WORKS

  • Each day of the event will host its own separate Cosplay Contest, with exciting opportunities for participants to showcase their creativity and craftsmanship. Each day, we award three Best in Show prizes: Best in Show, First Runner-Up, and Second Runner-Up. On Saturday, our largest contest of the weekend, additional prize categories are available due to the increased number of participants. These prizes are - Standout Craftsmanship, Standout Performance, and the Spirit of Cosplay Award.
  • For children 12 and under, there is a special walk-on portion during the cosplay contest where they can show off their costumes. While they do not compete for prizes, every child will receive a goodie bag for participating.
  • To compete for prizes, contestants must ensure they meet the eligibility criteria. Those simply walking without competing are welcome, but prize-seeking participants must meet all requirements to be considered for awards.
  • Contestants will have 30 seconds to walk onto the stage and pose for the audience and judges.
  • Be sure to read our Prize Eligibility, General Competition Rules, Judging Criteria and Award Information below.

PRIZE ELIGIBILITY

  • Only one costume entry per participant.
  • Store-bought costumes are not be eligible for prizes.
  • At least 70% of the costume must be made by the wearer.
  • Costumes that have won awards at a previous Anime Fiesta or South Texas Comic Con are not eligible for awards.

GENERAL COMPETITION RULES

  • Only one costume entry is allowed per contestant.
  • Costumes deemed lewd, obscene or offensive by event staff will not be permitted into the the venue.
  • Some form of footwear is required, bare feet will not be permitted for your safety.
  • Due to time constraints, lighting or audio requests will not be granted to contestants during the contest.
  • Contestants will have at least 30 seconds to walk onto the stage and pose for the audience.
  • Large costumes should allow the wearer freedom to move and navigate ramps. Event staff may not be available to assist you, so if assistance is needed you may have up to two of your own assistants help you across the stage.
  • All contestants must be on time to line up to receive instructions before the contest begins. Late entries are not allowed.
  • Disclaimer: Pictures and video taken by official event photographers and videographers during the event are the property of South Texas Conventions LLC and may be used by South Texas Conventions LLC for advertising and promotion of future events.

AWARDS

  • Best in Show - The Best in Show award is the top prize given each day of the contest. It recognizes the most outstanding cosplay overall, based on a combination of craftsmanship, creativity, and performance. The winner will receive a cash prize, along with a special trophy to commemorate their achievement.
  • Best in Show, First Runner Up - The First Runner-Up prize is awarded to the contestant who comes in just behind Best in Show. This cosplayer demonstrated exceptional talent and dedication, earning them a cash prize and a trophy.
  • Best in Show, Second Runner-Up - The Second Runner-Up prize honors the third-best cosplay performance of the day. This contestant displayed excellent skill and creativity, earning them a cash prize and a trophy.
  • Standout Performance Award (Saturday Only) - This award is a secondary award to the Best in Show awards. The Standout Performance Award is given to a contestant who gave an extraordinary on-stage performance during the contest. Whether through acting, choreography, or character embodiment, this cosplayer truly brought their character to life. This award is a trophy.
  • Standout Craftsmanship Award (Saturday Only) - This award is a secondary award to the Best in Show awards, and is presented to a cosplayer whose attention to detail and craftsmanship truly stood out. Whether through intricate sewing, impressive prop work, or outstanding materials, this cosplayer demonstrated exceptional skill in creating their costume. The award comes is a trophy, recognizing their talent in costume-making.
  • Spirit of Cosplay Award (Saturday Only) - This award is a secondary award to the Best in Show awards. The Spirit of Cosplay Award celebrates a contestant who embodies the heart and soul of cosplay. This person has shown an infectious enthusiasm and passion for the art, encouraging and uplifting others in the cosplay community. Their positive attitude and love for the craft are recognized with a special trophy.

JUDGING CRITERIA

  1. Construction: design, seams, stitching, materials, fit
  2. Effort: hours spent on costume, finishing details
  3. Hair styling and makeup (if applicable)
  4. Performance: stage presence, posing, movements, crowd impact