Cosplay Guidelines

Participants can register online by emailing fanfestponoka@gmail.com before August 17, 2024 or register in person the day of the event.  If registering on line please specify the following:

  • Your Name
  • Character’s Name
  • Your age
  • Your category

Participants may only enter ONE category.

Categories:

Beginner (Open): For cosplayers who have never participated in a cosplay contest or have participated one time with no wins. 

Beginner (Craftsmanship): For cosplayers who have never participated in a cosplay contest before or have participated one time with no wins. 70% or more of their costume must be created or modified (not store bought or rented). Bringing photos of costume creation stages is encouraged.

Journeyman (Open): For cosplayers with some expo and/or contest experience!  Contestants previously could have participated in one to three cosplay contests OR won in a beginner category in the past.  

Journeyman (Craftsmanship): For cosplayers with some expo and/or contest experience!  Contestants previously could have participated in one to three cosplay contests OR won in a beginner category in the past. 70% or more of their costume must be created or modified (not store bought or rented). Bringing photos of costume creation stages is encouraged.

Master (Open): For experienced cosplayers who have participated in four or more cosplay contests OR won one or more cosplay contests in the past. Professional cosplayers may also participate. 

Master (Craftsmanship): For experienced cosplayers who have participated in four or more cosplay contests OR won one or more cosplay contests in the past. Professional cosplayers may also participate. 70% or more of their costume must be created or modified (not store bought or rented). Bringing photos of costume creation stages is encouraged.

Kids: For children under 12. Families in cosplay are permitted as well. An adult must be with the cosplayer at all times if they are under 8 years old (the guardian does not need to be in cosplay). 

 

Props are defined as bows, staffs, canes, fake swords/guns (no ammunition), tools (hammers, rope, etc.) and any other item (toy, bag, umbrella etc.) not directly attached to the main costume. Living animals and real weapons such as guns, hunting arrows, or knives are not permitted.  Central Alberta Fanfest organizers and volunteers have the right to inspect props at any point to ensure they are not dangerous.