COSPLAY CONTEST
Registration & Rules
KIDS COSPLAY CONTEST RULES
Categories:
Kids Exhibition (12 & Under): A fun, low-pressure way for kids to show off their cosplay on stage. No prejudging.
Kids Craftsmanship (12 & Under): For young cosplayers who want to compete based on their craftsmanship. Prejudging required.
Awards:
Best Kids Exhibition, Best Kids Craftsmanship
How to Register: (Please read all rules before registering)
Pre-Registration: You must purchase a Tupelo Con pass before signing up online.
Check-In: All online registrants must check in at the cosplay contest registration table on Saturday, March 15th, between 10 AM - 12 PM to keep their spot. Missing check-in may forfeit your slot.
Limited Spots: The contest is capped at 50 entries on a first come, first serve basis. Pre-registering online guarantees a slot. These slots also include the adult cosplay contest.
On-Site Registration: Available Saturday, March 15th, from 10 AM - 12 PM in the cosplay area as slots are available.
Prejudging Times:
Kids Craftsmanship: 3 Minutes
Prejudging times will be assigned at check-in/registration.
KIDS COSPLAY CONTEST RULES
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.
3. Stage Performance & Logistics:
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. Contest Etiquette & Safety:
All cosplays and props must follow Tupelo Con’s cosplay rules and prop policies.
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, if applicable.
No special effects or projectiles (glitter, liquids, flames, etc) on or off stage. Violating this rule may lead to disqualification.