Cosplay Contests
Get ready for the Masquerade, the main cosplay event of the con! Contestants can participate in one of three categories: Performance, Craftsmanship, or Exhibition. Within these categories, competitors are placed into skill divisions (Novice, Journeyman, or Master) based on their experience level, ensuring fair judging for all. The Performance Category will light up the stage with skits of every style, from comedy and drama to dance and more, while being judged live by our expert panel.
After the performances, the spotlight shifts to the Cosplay Fashion Show Walk! Here, Craftsmanship entrants (who have already been prejudged) and walk-ons/exhibition participants take the stage to show off their amazing costumes. Each contestant will have three poses on stage for the perfect photo ops.
To wrap up the night, don’t miss the award ceremony, where winners will be crowned for both Performance and Craftsmanship. It’s one of the most exciting highlights of the weekend—you won’t want to miss it!
What Are Divisions?
Think of divisions as “levels” in the cosplay competition—they keep things fair and fun by matching you with others of similar experience. Whether you’re brand new, a rising star, or a seasoned pro, there’s a spot for you!
Skill Divisions
Novice Category
This category is for those who are new to making their own costumes or performing on stage, with little to no competition experience.
- Entrants may have won no more than one major award at a convention of similar size or larger.
- “Major awards” include titles such as Best Overall or Best in Class.
- At your discretion, smaller recognitions such as 2nd/3rd place finishes, Honorable Mentions, or Judges’ Awards do not need to be considered when deciding your division.
Journeyman Category
This category is for those with more experience in creating costumes or performing.
- Entrants may have won no more than two major awards at a convention of similar size or larger.
- “Major awards” include titles such as Best Overall or Best in Class.
- As with Novice, placed awards or Honorable Mentions do not necessarily need to count toward this total.
Master Category
This category is for advanced cosplayers or performers with extensive experience.
- Entrants must have won three or more major awards at a convention of similar size or larger.
- “Major awards” include titles such as Best Overall or Best in Class.
- Placed awards (2nd or 3rd place), Honorable Mentions, or Judges’ Awards may be excluded at your discretion.
Note: The Cosplay Staff reserves the right to move a competitor up into a higher division if their experience and past achievements warrant it. Competitors will not be moved down to a lower division.
Sportsmanship in Cosplay Events
Cosplay is meant to be a celebration of creativity, community, and fun. Like any competition, some participants will win awards while others may not, but good sportsmanship is expected from everyone. At Ichibancon, unsportsmanlike conduct will not be tolerated. Offensive behavior including, but not limited to, racism, sexism, ageism, homophobia, fatphobia, hate speech, doxxing, or sandbagging, may result in disqualification, loss of awards or prizes, or removal from the convention or cosplay contests at the discretion of staff. If you witness or experience such behavior from contestants, staff, or judges, please report it to event staff immediately.
Feedback Sessions
Our judges will be available to provide constructive feedback on judged events, giving contestants the chance to learn, grow, and celebrate their progress. This is a supportive space to ask questions, gain valuable insights, and hear tips for future competitions. We encourage everyone to join with an open mind and a willingness to learn, feedback is meant to help you shine even brighter next time!
AI-Generated Images, Video, and Audio
Ichibancon does not support the usage of AI-generated music, video, and images. Usage of these things for any of our cosplay contests is not permitted and usage of said things will result in being disqualified.
