How to Enter

Entry Deadline: SEPTEMBER. 1, 2026

This is a runway-style contest with no pre-judging

To enter the pageant, you must:

• Complete the entry form (available below)

• Provide a brief description of your costume that the emcee will read during your appearance on stage. This may describe the details of the costume or provide a story about the character portrayed. You may offer details about the construction process, materials, number of work hours, or anything that might impress the judges and fans. This description is limited to 100 words.

• have a valid JemCon membership to participate.

Rules:

• Each person may enter one time only — either as an individual OR as part of a group, not both. Group entries count as one entry (no costume changes)

• In-person only — no virtual entries this year

• At least 60% of your costume must be handmade or altered.

• Costumes cannot be obscene, offensive, nor endorse any form of hate or hate group. Nudity not allowed.

• Do not incorporate anything dangerous, damaging, or disruptive.

Scores will be based on costume design, accuracy/craftsmanship, and overall universal appeal.

The judges may ask you questions about your cosplay garments and accessories. We love to let your creativity shine. You worked hard, tell our judges about it. Here are some questions you might want to be prepared to have answers for (Note: these are just generalized questions and may not be exactly what will be asked):

• What parts of the cosplay did you make and out of what materials?

• What part of your cosplay are you most proud of creating?

• Why did you choose the character you did to cosplay?

• What part of your cosplay gave you the most grief and what was your solution to make it work?

• If you had to do it over again, what would you do differently?

• Why did you choose the materials you did?

Please remember that there are no wrong answers. Everyone has a different process and learning experience, so share what you've learned and what you're proud of.