Cosplay Contest Application 2026

The Dream Convention Cosplay Contest is an exciting and prestigious event held annually, where passionate cosplayers from all backgrounds come together to showcase their creativity, craftsmanship, and love for cosplay. This competition offers a platform for cosplayers to display their hard work and talent, whether it's through a solo or group performance, detailed craftsmanship, or striking stage presence. 

Show off your craftsmanship and bring your favorite characters to life in Dream Con’s annual Cosplay Contest! Compete against fellow cosplayers for a chance to win the grand prize and claim your spot as a top creator.

Dream Con’s Cosplay Contest is open to all badged attendees and free to apply. Please be sure to read through our rules and guidelines carefully before submitting your application. Please also be aware we do not provide badges for contestants to attend the Convention. If you have any additional questions, comments, or concerns, feel free to reach out to us at cosplay@dreamconvention.com. 

Competition Overview:

The Dream Con Cosplay Contest is an opportunity for cosplayers to compete in various categories, ranging from craftsmanship judging to performance-based showcases. Contestants are invited to enter their cosplay creations for the chance to win prizes, recognition, and the admiration of fellow fans. The competition attracts cosplayers from all over the world, with different skill levels, styles, and inspirations.

What the Application Covers: The Cosplay Contest Application is the official form through which contestants register for the event. By filling out this form, you confirm your participation and provide critical information that ensures your spot in the competition.

Some of the details that will be required in your application include, but are not limited to:

• Personal Information: This section includes your legal name, cosplay name (if applicable), and other necessary identification details.
• Cosplay Details: Information about the character or series you are cosplaying, the category or division you are entering, and any special performance or craftsmanship elements associated with your cosplay.
• Performance Information (if applicable): For contestants who plan to perform on stage, details about audio submissions, solo/group performances, and other relevant information will be required.
• Special Accommodations: If you need any special accommodations for the judging process or competition day, you’ll have the option to inform the staff, so they can ensure a comfortable and fair experience.

Key Aspects of the Competition:

Craftsmanship Judging: Cosplayers will be judged on the construction, accuracy, and creativity of their costumes. This is a crucial part of the competition, allowing cosplayers to demonstrate their skills in sewing, prop making, and attention to detail.

Performance/Runway Show: Cosplayers have the option to showcase their character through a performance or participate in a cosplay runway show. These are separate from craftsmanship judging but allow contestants to engage the audience with their stage presence.

Special Categories and Prizes: Depending on the competition, there may be different prize categories, including Best Craftsmanship, Best Group, Fan Favorite, and more. The prizes and titles are awarded to celebrate the diverse and exceptional efforts of cosplayers.

Application Process:

Fill out the Application: Provide your details and preferences, including your chosen category and any special requirements.

• Submit Audio/Performance Details (if applicable): If you're performing, upload your audio or provide any necessary performance details.
• Submit the Form: Once your application is complete, submit it for review and confirmation. The staff will send you further instructions and updates as the competition day approaches.

Why Apply:

By participating in the Dream Convention Cosplay Contest, you’ll become part of a community that celebrates creativity, passion, and artistry. It’s not just about the prizes, but also about sharing your love for cosplay with others who appreciate the craft. It’s an opportunity to challenge yourself, gain exposure, and connect with others who share your interests.

If you have any questions or need further information about theContest, please reach out to the Dream Con cosplay team at cosplay@dreamconvention.com.

Cosplay Contest Divisions:

• Master: Any cosplayer who has won two or more awards in Journeyman at any major or local competition may enter this division.
  Professional cosplayers (those who earn the majority of their income from cosplay) must enter this category.

• Journeyman: This division is for non-professional cosplayers who have not won major awards in the Master division. Individuals who have won at least one award in Novice or Journeyman categories are eligible to apply. Individuals who have won three or more major awards in Journeyman at any major or local competition are ineligible for this category.

• Novice: No professional cosplayers allowed. Individuals who have won two or more contests or have won awards in Journeyman or Master divisions are not eligible.

Application Requirements:

Contestants must submit the following materials by the application deadline (June 6, 2026, at 11:59 PM CST):

• One reference image or video clearly showing your chosen character.
• Two progress photos or one progress video demonstrating your costume-making process.
• A Work-In-Progress (WIP) portfolio (physical, digital PDF, slideshow, or video format up to 3 minutes).
• A written description of your planned stage performance.
• MP3 audio file if your performance includes music (other formats are not accepted).

Mandatory Rehearsal and Pre-Judging:

• All contestants must attend the rehearsal and pre-judging session scheduled for July 11, 2026, at 12:00 PM CST. Notify staff immediately if you cannot attend.

For questions or more details, please refer to the Cosplay Contest Terms and Conditions or contact cosplay@dreamconvention.com.

Application Requirements:

Deadline: All entries must be submitted by Saturday, June 6, 2026 at 11:59 PM CST. Late entries will not be accepted.

Hand-crafted Cosplays Only:
All cosplays presented for judging must be hand crafted. At least 60% of the cosplay must be crafted by the contestant. Shoes and wigs are excluded from the 60% requirement. If your cosplay does not meet these criteria, please refer to the Cosplay Runway Application.

Cosplay Contest Requirements:

Attendee Badge: All cosplayers must have the current year’s valid Dream Convention attendee badge to participate.

Progression and Reference Pictures: All contestants must submit a mandatory reference picture or video of their character and two (2) progression pictures or one video showcasing their work along with their application.

Music Submission: All contestants are to submit their audio tracks or pre-recorded music clips in MP3 format. YouTube links or other file types can not be accepted. If you experience any issues, please contact cosplay@dreamconvention.com.

Work in Progress (WIP) Portfolio: All contestants are required to submit either a physical or digital WIP for their pre-judging. Please upload your digital portfolio or provide pictures of your physical WIP with your application in approved formats or email it to cosplay@dreamconvention.com to ensure its arrival.

Performance Description: Contestants must provide a written description of their performance. An example is provided in the application process.

Rehearsal and Pre-Judging: All contestants must attend the mandatory rehearsal meeting leading up to the event. Any conflicts must be communicated to the organizers in advance. Pre-judging scheduling will be assigned via email prior to the event.

Age Requirements:
Contestants must be at least 13 years old to participate without parental consent. If you are under the age of 13, a parent/guardian must be present during all related contest events, including pre-judging.

Rules and Guidelines:

• Costume & Prop Design: No commissioned cosplays are allowed in the Cosplay Contest. 
• At least 60% of your cosplay must be handmade (excluding shoes and wigs).
• Your cosplay can be from any fandom including, but not limited to anime, video games, comics, and cartoons. Original Characters (OCs) are not allowed.
• Cosplays must meet Dream Con's dress code, with coverage equal to or greater than that of a standard swimsuit. 
• No offensive, discriminatory, or vulgar cosplays will be tolerated. 

Costume Modesty:
Costumes that are deemed lewd or offensive due to excessive nudity are not permitted. Please ensure that costumes remain PG-13.

• Upper Body Coverage: All attendees must have at least 60% coverage of both sides of their chest or the amount of a standard bathing suit, regardless of gender.
• Bottom Coverage: At least 60% of your behind or the amount covered by a standard bathing suit must be covered by your clothing.
• Dance Belts: Any attendee wearing tight-fitting costumes (such as bodysuits or leggings) are required to wear a dance belt for added support and coverage.
• Footwear: Shoes must be worn at all times on the convention floor. Bare feet are not allowed.

Offensive Costumes:
Costumes that display offensive language, symbols, or imagery are prohibited.

Weapons and Props Guidelines:
All prop weapons must be taken to the Prop Check Desk immediately upon arrival to be peace-bonded for safety.

Prohibited Weapons and Props:

• Firearms, projectiles, and open flames are strictly prohibited.
• Airsoft guns (even if internal parts are stripped) and BB guns are not allowed.
• Metal cosplay weapons (e.g., swords, knives, bayonets) are prohibited.
• Stun guns and tasers are not allowed.
• Functional water guns are not allowed.
• Ammunition of any kind is strictly forbidden.
• Any props that are misused, thrown, swung, or may cause harm to other attendees will result in the immediate revocation of your privilege to carry that prop within the convention.

Staff Discretion: Any staff member reserves the right to deem any prop dangerous, and if deemed so, that prop will not be allowed into the convention. Please adhere to this policy to ensure a safe environment for all attendees.

Note: Our policies regarding weapons and props may change without prior notice, so please stay updated.

Allowed Props:

• Wooden props are allowed.
• Paper mache weapons and props are allowed.
• Water guns (only if security can verify that they are unusable).
• Bows and arrows are permitted. However, no tips on the arrows are allowed. Bows must remain unstrung for the entirety of the convention.
• Foam weapons are allowed.

Performance Guidelines:

• PG-13 rated performances only.
• Written performance summaries are required, and the performance must match the description provided.
• Time limits:
  Individual: 1 minute 30 seconds maximum.
  Group: 3 minutes maximum.
• MP3 audio files are optional for performances. Audio can be provided by the Convention.
• Confetti, glitter, smoke bombs, fire, or any other explosive or flammable materials are strictly prohibited.

“Sandbagging” Policy:
Sandbagging is not allowed. If your cosplay has already won Best in Show or Best in Division at any other major event, it cannot be re-entered at Dream Con.

Stage Etiquette:
No acrobatics, running, or jumping off the stage for safety purposes.
Props must be cleaned up immediately after your performance.
 

Cosplay Contest Categories:

Master: 

• Any cosplayer who has won two or more awards in Journeyman at any major or local competition may enter this division. 
• Professional cosplayers (those who earn the majority of their income from cosplay) must enter this category.

Journeyman:

• This division is for non-professional cosplayers who have not won major awards in the Master division.
• Individuals who have won at least one award in Novice or Journeyman categories are eligible to apply.
• Individuals who have won two or more major awards in Journeyman at any major or local competition are ineligible for this category.

Novice:

• No professional cosplayers allowed.
• Individuals who have won two or more contests or have won awards in Journeyman or Master divisions are not eligible.
   

Mandatory Meeting & Judging:
A mandatory meeting will take place on Saturday, July 11th at 12:00 PM CST. Failure to present to this meeting without notifying Cosplay Department Staff may result in disqualification and dismissal from the contest.

Judging Criteria:

The competition consists of two judging segments: Pre-Judging and Runway Performance. Contestants will be evaluated on craftsmanship, creativity, and presentation.

Pre-Judging – Craftsmanship & Creativity:
Contestants will meet with judges for a brief one-on-one evaluation focused on the construction and design of their cosplay.

Judges will evaluate:

• Accuracy: How closely the costume matches the character’s original design.
• Craftsmanship: Quality of construction, detailing, finishing, and material use.
• Creativity & Originality: Unique techniques, modifications, or innovative approaches used in your cosplay.

What to Expect:

• You will have approximately 10 minutes to discuss your costume.
• Judges may ask about techniques, materials, and creative decisions.
• You may bring reference materials or build books to showcase your work.
• Judges may request to examine specific elements (e.g., seams, armor details, prop construction). You may also demonstrate or explain these elements yourself.

Runway Performance – Presentation & Impact:
Contestants will take the stage and showcase their cosplay in front of the audience and judges.

Judges will evaluate:

• Presentation & Performance: Confidence, stage presence, and character embodiment.
• Overall Impact: How well the cosplay translates visually and portrays the intended character.

What to Expect:

• Contestants may do a simple walk with 3-5 poses or a short in-character performance.
• Props are allowed but must comply with event safety policies.
• If performing a skit, audio or visual files must be submitted in advance (if applicable).
    

Work-In-Progress (WIP) Books:
WIP Books are required for judging. Contestants must present their WIP Book during the craftsmanship judging session.

Acceptable formats include:

• Digital WIP Books: A digital PDF or slideshow that can be viewed on a device (tablet, laptop, etc.).
• Video Format: A short video (less than 3 minutes) that demonstrates the progress of your cosplay from start to finish. This video should be submitted in advance with your application and can include a walkthrough of your progress or time-lapse footage. Please ensure the video file is MP4 or MOV format.

Important Notes:

• Contestants without a WIP Book (in any format) will be disqualified from the craftsmanship judging.
• Be respectful to our judges, staff, volunteers, and other contestants at all times.
  
  

For any questions or concerns, please contact the Cosplay Department at cosplay@dreamconvention.com