Cosplay Central

Grab your cosplay, we’ll see you on the show floor!

Cosplay is a massive part of every MCM Comic Con! Children & adults alike dress up to display their love for their favourite characters. So if you’re considering attending in cosplay as your favourite superhero, anime or video game character, Lord of the Rings hobbit or Jedi from Star Wars – you won’t be alone! At MCM Comic Con, you’re in good company.

Cosplay Central

Don’t miss the Cosplay Central stage with a host of panels about everything cosplay from members of the cosplay community! From cosplay showcases, advice on taking part in competitions and getting started with wigs to getting that perfect cosplay picture and tips to make your cosplay even better, the Cosplay Central stage is a celebration of all aspects of cosplay.

Need a place to change?

Head to Cosplay Central and utilise one of our changing areas.

Got an emergency costume crisis?

Speak to our dedicated team of volunteers in the Cosplay Hospital who’ll be on hand throughout the show to glue-gun, sew or tape your ‘fit back together; all free of charge!

You’ll also find the Cosplay Team in our HQ for admin support for the Cosplay Masquerades and any other queries about everything going on in Cosplay Central.

Please note: Due to safety and security issues we will no longer be able to assist cosplayers with baggage storage, please use the cloakrooms provided by the venue. If you have a particularly large costume or prop you may need assistance with at the show please get in touch with the Cosplay Team in advance to discuss if we can assist you: [email protected]

Who will be in Cosplay Central?

The Cosplay Central Crown Championships

The Cosplay Central Crown Championships brings together the most incredible cosplay craftsmanship from around the world. Cosplayers selected at events in their regions will take to the stage with their incredible hand crafted costumes in the global final at C2E2, Chicago, to claim the title of Crown Champion. This December, we will select a new MCM Champion who will receive a cash prize and a trip to Chicago to compete in the Global final against the cosplayers selected around the world in April 2024.

Want to see the action unfold? The Championship Qualifier will follow the Cosplay Masquerade on Saturday so just head to the main stage and grab your seat for a double bill of cosplay action!

Cosplay Masquerades & MCM Variety Show

The ever-popular Cosplay Masquerades will be held on both Saturday and Sunday on the Main Stage. They give cosplayers the chance to showcase their handmade costumes in front of a packed audience. There are prizes for the best costumes but cosplayers are free to take part just for fun if they do not wish to be judged. Family entries and Juniors are also welcome to take part just for fun.

On Sunday we’ll start a double bill of cosplay on the Main Stage with the MCM Variety Show. Talented cosplayers will show off their choreographed fandom inspired dances, magic tricks, musical talents or comedy skits, with the chance of a prize for the best performance.

Want to enjoy a show packed with amazing cosplay?
Check out the schedule and head to the Main Stage at the right time, it’s all included with your Comic Con ticket! 

Do you have a cosplay you’d love to showcase on stage?

Applications for the Variety Show and Crown Championships are now closed.
The Saturday masquerade is currently operating a waiting list but there are limited spaces still available on Sunday.

Before you apply, make sure to carefully read the rules.

Want to enjoy a show packed with amazing cosplay?

Check out the schedule and head to the main stage at the right time, it’s all included with your Comic Con ticket! 

Kids Cosplay Showcase

This is the time for your mini-superheroes to strut their stuff! On stage our mini-cosplayers will tell the audience about their costume and strike a pose on the Cosplay Central stage. This is a great way for their moment to shine on stage in a welcoming space.

Taking place Saturday and Sunday, the Kids Cosplay Showcase is open to under 12s with any costume. No need to sign up in advance, just arrive at Cosplay Central HQ at 1pm Saturday or 12pm Sunday to take part. 

Cosplay Showcase

We know cosplay isn’t all serious competitions and months of crafting, sometimes you just want to channel your favourite character!

The Cosplay Showcase is a fun and friendly catwalk on the Main Stage taking place each day for anyone who wants to show their love of a character through cosplay. Open to everyone, of all ages, even if you’ve bought your costume or assembled it from your normal wardrobe. Sign up on the day you’d like to take part before 1pm at Cosplay Central HQ. (Space is limited)

Costume, Weapons & Props Rules

Cosplay is welcome in all parts of the show however it is necessary to set some restrictions as it is a family-friendly event. Note in particular that metal blades (sharp or blunt), working projectile weapons, and wooden or metal bats & paddles are all forbidden.  

For more details on our weapons and props rules

Need to know more?

Please visit us at Cosplay Central HQ during the show or email us at  [email protected].