City of Oaks Comicbook Odyssey

A journey through panels, pages, and pop culture

Cosplay

Cosplay at City of Oaks Comicbook Odyssey

Celebrate creativity, craftsmanship, and fandom—whether you’re competing or just showing off your look.
Cosplay Contest & Entry Info Contest Rules

What Is Cosplay at COCO?

Cosplay is a big part of the City of Oaks Comicbook Odyssey experience, and it’s welcome all weekend long. Whether you’re debuting your very first costume, putting together a closet cosplay, or showing off months of creative work, you’re invited to cosplay in whatever way feels right to you.

Participating in the cosplay contest is completely optional. The contest is designed to be fun, encouraging, and community-focused — not intimidating or exclusive. You don’t need to compete to cosplay, and there’s no “right” level to participate. Come celebrate the characters you love, express your creativity, and enjoy the atmosphere at your own pace.

Cosplay Schedule

SATURDAY · FEB 21 

3:00 – 3:30 PM
Sign-up/14U Cosplay Contest

3:30 – 5:00 PM
Cosplay Contest (14U)
 
Cosplay at COCO!

SUNDAY · FEB 22

1:00 – 1:30 PM
Sign-up/15+ Cosplay Contest

1:30 – 3:00 PM
Cosplay Contest (15+)
 
Cosplay at COCO!

Cosplay Contest

Cosplay Contest Registration & Entry

Cosplay contest registration happens onsite during City of Oaks Comicbook Odyssey. There’s no need to register ahead of time — attendees are welcome to enjoy the weekend and decide if they’d like to participate once they’re here.

Youth Cosplay Contest (14 & Under)

Eligibility
  • Open to participants 14 years old and younger
  • One entry per participant
  • Group entries allowed (all members must be under 15 as of 1AUG25)
 
Costume Requirements
  • Costume may be store-bought, handmade, or a combination
  • Must be appropriate for a family-friendly audience
  • No real weapons or unsafe props
 
Judging Criteria
  • Creativity & Originality
  • Character Accuracy
  • Craftsmanship
  • Stage Presence / Confidence
 
Awards & Prizes
  • To be Announced
Cosplay at COCO!

Adult/Pro Cosplay Contest (15+)

Eligibility
  • Open to participants 16 years and older
  • Solo and group entries permitted
  • Professional and experienced cosplayers encouraged
 
Costume Requirements
  • Costume must be at least 60% self-made to qualify for craftsmanship awards
  • Must be safe, wearable, and suitable for public display
  • All armor, props, and accessories must comply with convention weapons policy
 
Pre-Judging (Highly Recommended)
  • Judges may request:
    • Progress photos
    • Construction details
    • Techniques used (sewing, foam work, 3D printing, etc.)

Judging Criteria
  • Craftsmanship & Technical Skill
  • Accuracy to Source Material
  • Creativity / Adaptation
  • Presentation & Performance
  • Overall Impact
 
Awards & Prizes
  • To be Announced
 
Cosplay at COCO!

Stage Walk & Presentation (All Divisions)

  • Each contestant will have 30–60 seconds on stage
  • Brief character introduction by the host
  • Optional pose or short performance (no full skits unless pre-approved

General Rules (All Divisions)

  • No harassment, hate symbols, or inappropriate behavior
  • No fire, liquids, or dangerous effects
  • Contestants must follow all convention safety policies
  • Judges’ decisions are final

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