COSPLAY RUNWAY & CONTEST
Friday, March 27, 2026 from 6pm-9pm
Refreshment doors open at 5:15.
Seating opens at 6.
Contest starts promptly at 6:30.
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Online registration closes at 10pm Thursday, March 27 or 50 contestants, whichever comes first.
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In-person registration ends at 5:30. - Capped at 10 people
what is cosplay?
Cosplay is an exciting performance art where fans transform into their favorite characters from movies, TV shows, books, and video games. The term combines "costume" and "play," and participants dive into the fun by embodying their characters and role-playing, whether it's a beloved icon, an original creation, or a mixed blend of characters. With costumes featuring vibrant clothing, creative makeup, fabulous wigs, and eye-catching props, cosplayers celebrate their fandom in style!
Sparking incredible connections and an electrifying spirit of collaboration among all enthusiasts, the Cosplay community thrives on sharing knowledge online tutorials and conventions - including CulpeperCon!
Join the Fun at CulpeperCon's Cosplay Runway & Contest
Be a part of the Cosplay experience at our signature start to CulpeperCon. Get ready for an evening event filled with exciting performances of in an unforgettable cosplay runway walk and competition. Don't miss this chance to connect with like-minded fans and immerse yourself in a world of creativity and imagination. Are you ready to be a part of the CulpeperCon Cosplay Family?
judging
If you are entering the CulpeperCon Cosplay Contest (note that participants may take part in the runway only), contestants are categorized by age: Youth (up to 12 years), Teen (ages 13-17), group, and Adult (18 and over). There are no age restrictions for group entries.
Creativity
bought vs made, concept, assembly, visual impact
Workmanship
materials used, sewing, painting, construction, complexity
Attention to Detail:
execution of concept, accuracy to character
Presentation
acting, personality, being ‘in character’
Stage Impact Bonus Points
for exemplary stage presence and/or ingenuity
Original Characters are to be judged along same criteria. The accuracy to character is based on their character description on the registration form.
Meet our Judges
Click a photo to find out more information about our judges.
Cosplay Photographer
Back for year 3, Bryant Cox of BC Photography is CulpeperCon’s exclusive cosplay photographer, turning your fan-favorite local cosplay looks into unforgettable shots.
Bryant Cox is the owner and photographer of BC Photography. He has been doing cosplay photography for 8 years providing the cosplay community with high quality professional photography and specializing in digital art composites
Thank you
We want to say thank you to the Culpeper Little Theater for helping with the entire night of CulpeperCon's Cosplay Runway & Contest. Their help will ensure a smooth, fun, and engaging evening for all.
EVENT SCHEDULE
Friday, March 27, 2026
6:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Saturday, March 28, 2026
10:00 am – 5:00 pm