• Only one costume entry is allowed per contestant.

• Costumes deemed lewd, obscene or offensive by event staff will not be permitted into the the venue.

• Some form of footwear is required, bare feet will not be permitted for your safety.

• Due to time constraints, lighting or audio requests will not be granted to contestants during the contest.

• Contestants will have at least 30 seconds to walk onto the stage and pose for the audience.

• Large costumes should allow the wearer freedom to move and navigate ramps. Event staff may not be available to assist you, so if assistance is needed you may have up to two of your own assistants help you across the stage.

• All contestants must be on time to line up to receive instructions before the contest begins. Late entries are not allowed.

• Disclaimer: Pictures and video taken by official event photographers and videographers during the event are the property of South Texas Conventions LLC and may be used by South Texas Conventions LLC for advertising and promotion of future events.

• Only one costume entry per participant.

• Store-bought costumes are not be eligible for prizes.

• At least 70% of the costume must be made by the wearer.

• Costumes that have won awards at a previous Anime Fiesta or South Texas Comic Con are not eligible for awards.

• Best in Show - The Best in Show award is the top prize given each day of the contest. It recognizes the most outstanding cosplay overall, based on a combination of craftsmanship, creativity, and performance. The winner will receive a cash prize, along with a special trophy to commemorate their achievement.

• Best in Show, First Runner Up - The First Runner-Up prize is awarded to the contestant who comes in just behind Best in Show. This cosplayer demonstrated exceptional talent and dedication, earning them a cash prize and a trophy.

• Best in Show, Second Runner-Up - The Second Runner-Up prize honors the third-best cosplay performance of the day. This contestant displayed excellent skill and creativity, earning them a cash prize and a trophy.

• Standout Craftsmanship Award (Saturday Only) - This award is a secondary award to the Best in Show awards, and is presented to a cosplayer whose attention to detail and craftsmanship truly stood out. Whether through intricate sewing, impressive prop work, or outstanding materials, this cosplayer demonstrated exceptional skill in creating their costume. The award comes is a trophy, recognizing their talent in costume-making.

• Standout Creativity Award (Saturday Only) - This award is a secondary award to the Best in Show awards. This award honors a contestant whose design choices or overall presentation showcases exceptional originality and artistic vision. This cosplayer brings something truly unique to the stage, whether through inventive materials, imaginative character interpretation, or an inspired creative approach.

• Spirit of Cosplay Award (Saturday Only) - This award is a secondary award to the Best in Show awards. The Spirit of Cosplay Award celebrates a contestant who embodies the heart and soul of cosplay. This person has shown an infectious enthusiasm and passion for the art, encouraging and uplifting others in the cosplay community. Their positive attitude and love for the craft are recognized with a special trophy.

Construction (Craftsmanship)

• Design execution: Overall accuracy and faithfulness to the reference character or design. If it's an original design, how cohesive and intentional the concept is.

• Seams and stitching: Quality and neatness of seams, topstitching, and finish work (e.g., hems, seam allowance, bias tape).

• Material choices: Suitability of fabrics, foam, thermoplastics, or other materials used in the costume. Are materials thoughtfully chosen to match the character or purpose?

• Fit and structure: How well the costume fits and supports the intended silhouette or shape. This includes proportions, tailoring, armor alignment, and stability.

• Finishing touches: Weathering, trim work, lining, closures, embellishments, or other small details that elevate the overall piece.

Effort

• Time invested: Estimated hours spent on construction, with an understanding that complexity often requires more time.

Hair Styling and Makeup (if applicable)

• Wigs: Styling, cutting, color matching, and overall presentation. Are wigs styled to match the character or integrated well into the costume?

• Makeup: Application, technique, and creativity. Includes beauty, SFX, face paint, contouring, and character accuracy.

• Integration: How well the hair/makeup support the overall look and character portrayal.

Performance (Stage Presence)

• Posing and movement: Ability to showcase the costume effectively on stage with confidence and charisma.

• Character embodiment: Mannerisms, poses or expressions that bring the character to life

• Crowd engagement: Energy, presence, and how well the contestant connects with the audience during their walk or short performance.

• Creativity: For performances or skits, originality and execution of the concept.