Step Into Character: Cosplay Competition
Show off your creativity, craftsmanship, and passion in the SotFest Cosplay Competition. Whether you’ve handcrafted every detail or put together the perfect character look, we welcome cosplayers of all experience levels to take the stage. Join us for a celebration of gaming, imagination, and incredible costumes, with prizes and bragging rights up for grabs.
Cosplay Competition
Our cosplay competition is pirate-themed and welcomes cosplayers of all experience levels. Entries will be judged across three categories: Originality, Craftsmanship, and Character Personality.
Ready to join the crew? To register, please complete the sign-up form available at the bottom of this page. Before submitting your entry, make sure you have read all of the information below.
Prizes
Prizes will be announced at a later date.
All participants will receive an official SoTFest 2026 Cosplay Competition Certificate for taking part.
Registration
Registration is available through our Discord Server ModMail bot or, if spaces are still available, in person at SoTFest 2026.
There is no fee to enter the competition.
On the day, each competitor will be given a line-up number. This number will determine the order you appear on stage to showcase your cosplay.
Please note:
• All competitors must have a SoTFest 2026 ticket with Saturday access.
• Any competitors under 18 must have a parent or guardian present to approve their registration and check-in.
Competition Rules
To help keep the competition fun and enjoyable for everyone:
• Competitors must remain at the event for the duration of the competition and be present to receive any prizes.
• Each competitor may enter one costume only.
• SoTFest 2026 is a family-friendly event. Costumes or performances containing offensive language, excessive violence, sexual content (real or implied), nudity, or political/religious statements are not permitted.
• Anyone who does not follow these rules may be disqualified from the competition and may be asked to leave the event.
Entries are available on a first come, first served basis. We may need to limit participant numbers or pre-judge entries to ensure the competition runs smoothly and stays on schedule.
Competition FAQs
Will there be a changing room available?
Yes! More information about the changing room facilities will be released soon.
Can my costume be slightly revealing?
SoTFest is a family-friendly event with attendees of all ages. Costumes that are more revealing than a swimsuit or could be considered underwear may result in action being taken.
This could include being asked to change into something more appropriate or, in some cases, being removed from the event.
Can I bring props that look like real weapons?
For everyone’s safety, event security may refuse entry or confiscate any item they believe could pose a risk.
The SoTFest team and security staff reserve the right to remove props or take further action if necessary.
What type of props are allowed?
Outside of your costume, we recommend that additional props are made from safe materials such as foam.
Please note that even foam props may be refused if they are considered unsafe.
Where can I take photos?
Photos are welcome throughout the event spaces. We will also have dedicated photowall areas where you can capture your cosplay and show it off.
Can I ask people not to take photos of me?
While SoTFest cannot guarantee that you will not appear in attendee photos, you are welcome to politely ask people not to photograph you.
Please be aware that entering the Cosplay Competition means you may appear on the official SoTFest Twitch stream. If you do not wish to appear on the stream, please do not register.
If you would prefer not to appear on official SoTFest social media channels (such as Facebook, X, BlueSky, or Discord), please contact our ModMail team through the Discord server.
Have we missed your question?
Send a message through Discord ModMail and our team will be happy to help!
Join the Crew: Enter the Cosplay Competition
Ready to showcase your creation? Sign up now and take your place on the SotFest stage!