General Rules

1. Eligibility: Open to all attendees ages 10 & above (Any contestant under the age of 18 will require adult permission & supervision) 

2. Registration: Registration must be accomplished no later than Friday September 5th, 2025

3. Check-In: Check-in will occur at Pre-Judging.

4. Respect & Conduct: All participants must be respectful to staff, judges, and other contestants. Harassment or disruptive behavior will result in disqualification.

 

Costume Rules

1. Originality: Participants must have constructed or altered 50% of their own costumes. Store bought costumes will not be considered for placement. 

2. Weapons Policy: Prop weapons must comply with the event’s safety guidelines. No live steel, projectiles, or functioning firearms.

3. Appropriateness: Footwear must be worn. Costumes that are considered too revealing as well as props/weapons that may be deemed offensive or dangerous are strictly prohibited. 

4. Size & Mobility: Individuals wearing overly-sized costumes must have a 'handler' to help them navigate through the convention hall. 

 

Judging Criteria

1. Craftsmanship: Attention to detail, materials used, and construction quality.

2. Presentation: Stage presence, confidence, and character portrayal.

3. Creativity: Interpretation, uniqueness, and innovative design choices.

 

Awards & Categories​

• Best in Show

• Best Craftsmanship

• Judge’s Choice

• Youth/Junior Division (Age 12 & Under)

 

Legal & Media

1. Photography/Videography: By entering, contestants agree to be photographed/filmed and grant the event rights to use the media.

2. Liability: The event is not responsible for personal injury, lost items, or costume damage during the contest.