Cosplay Central
Where is Cosplay Central? The location of Cosplay Central will be announced closer to the show!
When is Cosplay Central open? Hours will be posted soon.
Cosplay allows people to express their creativity, passion, and connection to the characters and stories they love! Cosplay Central at NYCC fosters a sense of community and belonging, empowering individuals to celebrate their identities and share their artistry with others.
Things to do and experience in Cosplay Central are coming soon! Can’t wait? Read a few updates below…
Cosplay Central Crown Championships
The Cosplay Central Crown Championships is back for 2025! The winner of the New York Comic Con Qualifier will move forward into the USA Final for a chance at glory in the Crown Championships Global Final.
Craftsmanship is at the heart of the championship so expect to see some incredible creations on the stage. All the entries will have their costume construction inspected by our judges before they take to 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 chance to compete in the US finals where they will compete against winners selected at Florida Supercon, C2E2 and ECCC in the USA National Final. One of these four incredible cosplayers will triumph to compete against cosplayers from all over the world, all trying to claim the title of Crown Champion of Cosplay in the Global Final.
Applications open 9:00AM EST July 1, 2025 to 5:00PM EST August 25, 2025.
Applicants will be notified no later than September 1, 2025.regarding their acceptance into the competition. If you have any questions you may direct them to [email protected].
Admin Booth
Your friendly neighborhood Cosplay Admin booth will be located within Cosplay Central. Come on by if you have any questions about the Cosplay Central Crown Championships, Cosplay Central Costume Showcase, or New York Comic Con Talent Show. Plese refer to our hours to know when you can catch us.
Cosplay Central Costume 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 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.
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.
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 Safety, Security & Wellness.