COSPLAY COMPETITION

GOM CON Cosplay Contest Guidelines

General Rules
1. Eligibility

The contest is open to all attendees with valid convention badges.
A guardian must accompany participants under 13 years old.

2. Registration

Contestants must register online before the event or at the designated registration booth on Saturday, Day 1 of GOM Con.
Limited spots are available, so early registration is encouraged.

3. Costume Requirements

   - Costumes must represent characters from comic books, graphic novels, manga, anime, video games, movies, TV shows, or original designs inspired by these media.

   - Costumes should be appropriate for a family-friendly event. Explicit or offensive content is prohibited.

4. Construction

Participants must have handmade at least 80% of their costumes. This does not include shoes and wigs. Commissioned cosplays are not allowed. 

We know it’s hard to gauge 80% so here are some guardrails that might help you figure it out:

You can compete if you…

Made all a complex set of armor but purchased your sword.
Made your entire cosplay but commissioned your wig.
Bought a basic bodysuit but made considerable alterations and additions to it.
You should not compete if you…

Purchased your entire cosplay in a store or commissioned your cosplay.
Purchased the majority of your cosplay but made a prop for it.
Made the majority of your cosplay, but it’s not even close to finished by the time of the competition.

At the end of the day, if you’re not sure just email us! We are happy to help figure out if your cosplay meets this requirement.

Contestants should be prepared to discuss their costume construction with judges if asked.

5. Safety

No functional weapons are allowed. All prop weapons must be peace-bonded and comply with the convention's weapon policy.
Costumes should not impede movement or pose a safety hazard to the wearer or others.

6. Behavior

Respectful behavior is expected at all times. Harassment or inappropriate behavior towards other contestants, attendees, or staff will result in disqualification.
Contestants must follow all convention rules and guidelines.

Judging Criteria
1. Craftsmanship (60%)

Quality and accuracy of the costume.
Attention to detail and overall execution.
Creativity and originality, especially for original designs.

2. Presentation (20%)

Stage presence and confidence.
Ability to embody the character through actions, poses, or brief performances.
Overall impression and audience engagement.

3. Accuracy (20%)

Faithfulness to the character being portrayed (for non-original designs).
Attention to specific character details such as costume elements, accessories, and makeup.

Contest Procedures
1. Pre-Judging

Pre-judging will occur on the Saturday before the competition on Sunday. Contestants must check in at the pre-judging area at their assigned time.
Judges will inspect costumes closely and ask questions about the construction process. Judges will assess:
Construction Techniques
Attention to Detail
Accuracy to the Character
Creativity and Innovation
PROGRESS BOOKLET: MUST INCLUDE PHOTOS OF THE PROCESS AND MATERIALS USED.

2. Main Event

Contestants will walk across the stage, present their costumes, and perform any planned skits or poses.
Time on stage is limited to 1 minute per contestant/group.

3. Awards

There will be one open category for all participants.
The best overall cosplay will be awarded the title of “GOM Champion”
The winner will be announced and awarded a prize at the end of the contest.

4. Disqualification

 Failure to adhere to the guidelines or inappropriate behavior will result in disqualification.
 Contestants must remain present until the end of the contest to be eligible for awards.

Additional Notes
Photography: Contestants agree to be photographed and recorded during the event. The convention may use these images and videos for promotional purposes.
Liability:  The convention is not responsible for any damage or loss of personal items, or any injuries that occur during the contest.
Please email cospaly@thegeekout242.com for any questions or concerns.