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.
How to Find Cosplay Central
Head to level 3 of the ICC, at the east end of the ExCel (above the Main Stage), to find all the regular Cosplay Central features in our new dedicated hub in ICC Capital Suite
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. Check out the Workshop Schedule for cosplay workshops from creative cosplayers and our Cosplay Central Partners to learn some special skills from talented makers and try new crafting techniques in selected hands-on sessions.
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.
Need to make a quick fix or space to transform into your favourite character? Utilise one of our handy changing areas in Cosplay Central.
Cosplay Hospital
The real heroes of Comic Con! The dedicated team of volunteers in the Cosplay Hospital can handle all kinds of costume crises and prop palavers! They’ll be on hand throughout the show to glue-gun, pin, sew or tape your ‘fit back together; all free of charge.
Had a little mishap on the Show Floor and need a quick fix?
Head to the new Cosplay Hospital Outpost on the show floor (Location TBC).
Need some more intense assistance?
Head to our larger repair area in the Cosplay Central Hub, ICC Level 3.
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.
Cosplay Central Crown Championships
The Cosplay Central Crown Championships Final will return to MCM London Comic Con in May 2027.
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.
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! 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 Masquerade
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.
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.
International Cosplay League - Team UK Qualifier
Looking to take your cosplay to the global stage? We are excited to bring the ICL Team UK qualifiers back to MCM London!
ICL is a competition for both Solo and Duo cosplayers, competing in different categories. Solos compete purely in craftsmanship in a catwalk style presentation, whereas Duos also prepare incredible performances to showcase their handmade costumes.
The final is held at Japan Weekend Madrid in September and features cosplayers from across Europe and beyond.
Registrations for the Qualifier will open early 2027
Do you have a cosplay or performance you’d love to showcase on stage?
Applications for the Cosplay Masquerades, Sunday Variety Show and ICL Qualifier will open early 2027.
Check back soon and follow our socials for dates for your diary.
Need to know more?
Please visit us at Cosplay Central HQ during the show or email us at mcmcosplay@reedpop.com