Cosplay Central
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.
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.
A new home for Cosplay Central
This October, Cosplay Central moves off the show floor to a new home in the ICC Capital Suite. Head to level 3 of the ICC, at the east end of the ExCel, to find all the regular Cosplay Central features in our new dedicated hub in ICC Capital Suite, rooms 14-16.
What’s happening in 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.
Speak to the friendly Cosplay Team in Cosplay Central HQ for admin support for the Cosplay Masquerades, sign ups for showcases and any other queries about everything going on in Cosplay Central.
We can handle all kinds of costume crises and prop palavers at the Cosplay Hospital! (Speak to our dedicated team of volunteers who’ll be on hand throughout the show to glue-gun, sew or tape your ‘fit back together; all free of charge.
Need to make a quick fix or space to transform into your favourite character? Utilise one of our handy changing areas 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. 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].
Cosplay Competitions and Showcases
There are plenty of ways to showcase your costume and see incredible cosplay on stage at MCM.
Want to see the cosplayers shine on stage? Just check the schedule and head to the stage at the right time, it’s all included with your ticket!
Cosplay Showcase
The Cosplay Showcase is a fun and friendly catwalk on the Centre 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!
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 opportunity 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 check the schedule and arrive in time to start!
Cosplay Masquerades
The ever-popular Cosplay Masquerades are held on the Main Stage on Saturday and Sunday. 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.
MCM Variety Show
Our fans love to perform and we love to see it! Talented cosplayers will show off their choreographed fandom inspired dances, magic tricks, musical talents or comedy skits in the MCM Variety Show, 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!
The Masquerade is currently at capacity for participants and operating a waiting list. if you have read the rules, have an eligible costume and would like to be added to the wait list please email [email protected].
Need to know more?
Please visit us at Cosplay Central HQ during the show or email us at [email protected]
Cosplay Central Crown Championships
The 2026 Cosplay Central Crown Championships Final will be held at MCM London Comic Con in May 2026.
The Crown Championships is a celebration of cosplay artistry. The competition is judged on the cosplayers' design skills and the construction of the costume before they take to the stage to proudly show off their creations to the world in front of a packed audience. The costumes selected for the final are extremely complex, highly detailed, and executed with precision. Each of the finalists are already champions in their home nation, so you can be sure to see some incredible costumes from passionate creators.