COSPLAY CONTEST
Registration & Rules

 
Kids Cosplay Contest Image.png
 

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

  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.

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.