1. Eligibility and Divisions:

 

If you’re unsure which division to enter, ask a cosplay contest volunteer at registration.

 

Craftsmanship entries must be mostly handmade with clear craftsmanship skills (e.g. needlework, formwork, 3D printing, etc). Closet, store-bought, online-purchased, or rented cosplays are not allowed.

 

If you are modeling a cosplay made by someone else (including commissioned work), the creator must be present for prejudging and will be the one to receive any awards.

 

Previously awarded cosplays (any cosplay that has won a craftsman award before) are not eligible for competition.

 

2. Prejudging & Judging Criteria:

 

Prejudging is required for all craftsmanship contestants.  Missing prejudging disqualifies you from awards, but you may still walk on stage.

 

Bring a reference image of your character to help judges assess accuracy.  Progress photos or build books are strongly encouraged but not required.

 

Judges may bump contestants up into a higher division but cannot bump them down.

 

3. Stage Performance & Logistics:

 

The Cosplay Contest Showcase will begin at 4:00PM on Sunday.

Line up 15 minutes before the contest at the main stage near the convention entrance.

 

Contestants may have up to two minutes on stage.

 

No microphones or music will be provided on stage, so plan your stage presence accordingly.

 

4. Past Winners:

 

- To support the local cosplay community, Tupelo Con “Best in Show” winners from the past 3 years are not eligible to compete.  However, they are encouraged to participate in the “Winner’s Walk” at the start of the craftsmanship contest.  Please report to cosplay contest registration to organize the walk.

 

5. Contest Etiquette & Safety:

​

Craftsman competitors must acknowledge they have made at least 60% of their costume.

 

Contestants must have, at minimum, moderate swimsuit level coverage.

 

Contestants must be truthful in prejudging what they have made, and what they have not.

 

Bodypaint may be worn but must be sealed.

 

Prop weapons must be checked and tagged by convention staff prior to judging.

 

Contestants may not wear hate symbols.

 

Contestants may not yell profanity during or after the contest.

 

Contestants may not threaten, nor engage in combat with judges or other contestants.

Harassment or poor sportsmanship towards judges, contestants, volunteers, or attendees will not be tolerated and may result in disqualification or removal from the con.

 

Contestants may have a handler for assistance during prejudging and the contest.  Ask registration for any needed accommodations.

 

Everything to be displayed on stage must also be present during prejudging.

 

No special effects or projectiles (glitter, liquids, flames, etc) on or off stage.  Violating this rule may lead to disqualification.

 

Contestants may ask for their judging sheets back after contest has ended.

 

If you have any additional questions regarding the Cosplay Contest, please send an email to mehdiaraiise@gmail.com