Craftsmanship category
This category is for entries that want to be judged on the quality and construction of their costume. To enter, contestants must have made at least 70% or more of their cosplay themselves. All craftsmanship entries must attend their assigned prejudging time.
Divisions
Novice (0-1 Awards)
This division is for new cosplayers or those still learning the craft.
Journeyman (2-3 Awards)
For cosplayers who have outgrown the Novice division but are not yet ready for Master-level competition.
Master – (4+ awards, professional or international wins)
This division is for cosplayers at the top of their craft.
Anyone may choose to compete in the Master division.
Judging will focus heavily on construction quality and meeting the 70% handmade requirement.
Professional cosplayers may not enter Novice or Journeyman divisions. Cosplay Coordinators reserve the right to move a contestant into a more competitive division based on skill and experience. Contestants may choose to compete in a higher division, but may not request to move into a lower one if a placement inquiry has already been made.
Showcase category
This category is for those who wish to walk the stage and display their cosplay without being judged on craftsmanship.
Store-bought costumes, or costumes commissioned from other artists (who are not present for judging), are welcome in this category.
Showcase submissions are not eligible for craftsmanship awards, but may qualify for awards such as Best in Theme or People’s Choice.
Entry Types
Walk-Ons
- Maximum of 1 minute (including introduction, posing, and exit)
- For individuals or groups who wish to display their cosplay and model for photos on stage without performing a skit
Skits/Performances
- Maximum skit length of 3 minutes
- This entry type is for individuals or groups who wish to perform a skit, lip sync, dance, or theatrical piece on stage.
- Pre-recorded audio is allowed but not required. If your entry includes audio, please note this on your application. Live microphones and on-stage speaking will not be available.
- There are a limited number of performance entries, so please sign up early to secure your spot.
- If you have any questions or need clarification, please email the Cosplay Coordinators at: cosplaycontest@animefargo.org
- It is the responsibility of all contestants to read and understand the contest rules, policies, and guidelines before submitting their entry to the Anime Fargo Cosplay Contest.