Cosplay Central

Whether you’re a cosplay pro or just starting out, Cosplay Central has something for you!

Cosplay Central is the area of New York Comic Con devoted entirely to the art of costumes, crafts, and characters. At the Cosplay Central Stage, you’ll find workshops and panels where you can learn new tips, brush up on techniques, and meet fellow cosplayers. In case you’re in need of some cosplay repair or a quick change, Cosplay Central comes fully equipped with a repair station and changing area. When you’re ready to strut your stuff, we also have fun photo backdrops so you can take an awesome photo solo or with your squad.

Stay up to date with cosplay news, advice columns, interviews, tutorials, and more by visiting CosplayCentral.com

Cosplay Community

Cosplay is all about community and New York Comic Con is proud to host a number of cosplay organizations and exhibitors in Cosplay Central.

SheProp
SheProp's mission is to bring knowledge of building processes and techniques to female, non-binary and transgender cosplayers of all skill levels, and to encourage members to create, learn and inspire each other, as well as be positive role models themselves within the maker community. Visit their Cosplay Central booth to find out more about this inclusive and supportive community.

Stay tuned for more organizations and exhibitors as they are announced!

Guest Judges

Guest judges coming soon!

Cosplay Central Crown Championships at NYCC

The Cosplay Central Crown Championships is back for 2022! The global final will be held at C2E2 in 2023 and beyond.

Craftsmanship is still at the heart of the championship.  All of the entries will have their costume construction closely inspected by our judges, before they take to the stage and show off their creations.  

Make sure to head to the Main Stage on Saturday to see which of the incredible entries will claim victory and receive a cash prize and a trip to C2E2 in 2023 where they will compete against winners selected at Florida Supercon, ECCC and C2E2 compete against cosplayers from all over the world.

Registration for the Cosplay Central Crown Championships are now open! Click here for rules and registration. Please email cosplay@reedpop.com with any queries.

Apply Now

Cosplay Showcase

The Cosplay Showcase is where fans and cosplayers can showcase their craftsmanship in style. Taking place on Sunday, this event is open to all cosplayers with hand made costumes and is an opportunity for fans of all levels to strut their stuff on the main stage. Register at the Cosplay Central administration desk during the show. There are prizes (for over 18s only) but cosplayers are free to take part just for fun if they do not wish to be judged. Family Groups and Juniors (13-17) are also welcome to take part just for fun with any costume.

Check out the rules

Costume, Weapons & Props Rules

Cosplay is a welcome and important part of our shows; however, each show also has its limitations and guidelines so that cosplay can stay safe for everyone. Read more about our show’s prop weapons policy here.

Check out the full schedule for everything happening at Cosplay Central here.

Cosplay is NOT Consent

New York Comic Con has a ZERO TOLERANCE POLICY for harassment of any kind. Ask permission before taking photos with or of a cosplayer and respect their right to say no. Please read our full Anti-Harassment Policy here.