Cosplay

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 are not able to assist cosplayers with baggage storage, please use the cloakrooms provided by the venue.

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

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 MCM London Comic Con, to claim the title of Crown Champion. At MCM Birmingham, we will select a new MCM Champion who will receive a cash prize and a trip to London to compete in the Global Final against the cosplayers selected around the world in May 2027. 

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! 

Applications to take part in the UK Qualifier at MCM Birmingham for the 2027 Final open Friday 5 – Monday 22 June 2026


Masquerade & 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.

Applications for the Variety Show will open 12 June – 8 July 2026. 
 

Registrations for the Masquerade open 26 June 2026 - space is allocated first come first served to eligible entries. 

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! Our mini-cosplayers will introduce themselves and strike a pose in front of a friendly crowd in The Treehouse.

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 check the schedule and arrive in time to start! 

Cosplay Showcase

The Cosplay Showcase is a fun and friendly catwalk on the Live Stage taking place each day for anyone who wants to show their love of a character through cosplay.  Showcases are 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 at Cosplay Central HQ before 1pm* if you’d like to take part. 

*Space is limited and sign ups may close before this time if the showcase is full, come as early as you can to secure your spot!


Need to know more?

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