Cosplay Contest Divisions
The Fall 2026 Motor City Comic Con Cosplay Contest will feature two divisions: the Cosplay Showcase and the Craftsmanship Contest. For more information please review the Cosplay Information and Guidelines!
The Cosplay Showcase is a non-competitive division for cosplayers who do not wish to compete, have previously won 1st place or Best in Show, or have cosplays that are purchased, commissioned, thrifted, or not handmade from scratch. Participants will take that stage to pose and showcase their cosplay. Individuals or themed groups are welcome.
The Craftsmanship Contest is a competitive event for individual cosplayers who have handcrafted a minimum percentage of their cosplay. Participants will meet privately with the cosplay judges on Saturday for a 5-minute pre-judging appointment before taking the stage to present their cosplay during the contest.
Cosplay Craftsmanship Contest Categories
For more information, please review the Cosplay Information and Guidelines!
Beginner: Contestants qualify as novice ONLY if they have never previously competed in a cosplay contest or have never won 1st Place, Best Craftsmanship, or Best of Show.
Advanced: The category is for cosplayers who have won 1st Place, Best Craftsmanship, or Best in Show at least once during their cosplay career. The Advanced category is also for professional costume designers, tailors/seamstresses, those who earn an income from sewing, costume commissioning, and/or cosplay creation. Additionally, it is for anyone who wishes to compete in the Advanced category.
The competition is divided into two categories: Beginner and Advanced. Awards will be presented for 1st and 2nd place in both categories, as well as Best of Show and Judge's Choice. Cosplays must be based on characters from anime, manga, film, television, literature, video games, or other Western and Eastern pop culture. Original characters and mash-ups are not permitted.
