August 14 - 16, 2026

Donald E. Stephens Convention Center

FAN EXPO Chicago

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COSPLAY ATTRACTIONS

Rev your sewing machines, it’s cosplay time. FAN EXPO Chicago is home to the best in cosplay. Stay up-to-date with our cosplay events by subscribing to our newsletter.

THE MASTERS OF COSPLAY CHICAGO QUALIFER

The Masters of Cosplay Chicago Qualifier: Eight cities, eight winners, and one Master of Cosplay. Register now to compete for cosplay glory, $1,000 cash, and a chance to head to the Grand Finale.

A cosplayer in a fantasy-inspired costume with long lavender pigtails and large elf ears speaks into a microphone while leading a panel at FAN EXPO. Seated behind a table with a laptop, they address a room of attendees, one of whom has their hand raised to ask a question. The backdrop features repeating FAN EXPO and “For the Fans” logos.

COSPLAY GUEST APPLICATIONS

Master cosplayers, builders, and crafters will be at the show hosting panels and showing off their creations. Hunt for tips on how to upgrade your own cosplays and snap some pics of your favorites all weekend long. Are you a master cosplayer who wants to show your talent off? Apply now to be one of our featured cosplay guests.

A cosplayer in a fantasy-inspired costume with long lavender pigtails and large elf ears speaks into a microphone while leading a panel at FAN EXPO. Seated behind a table with a laptop, they address a room of attendees, one of whom has their hand raised to ask a question. The backdrop features repeating FAN EXPO and “For the Fans” logos.

COSPLAY SHOWCASE

From hours on prop details to stitching your outfits, you've worked hard on your cosplay. Now it’s time to put it on display and wow the fans. Apply for the Cosplay Showcase and get your creations get noticed.

A cosplayer in a fantasy-inspired costume with long lavender pigtails and large elf ears speaks into a microphone while leading a panel at FAN EXPO. Seated behind a table with a laptop, they address a room of attendees, one of whom has their hand raised to ask a question. The backdrop features repeating FAN EXPO and “For the Fans” logos.

COSPLAY PANELS AND WORKHOPS

From fabrication to acting, our line up of pros are on hand to show you how to take your cosplay game to the next level. Attend a panel, check out a demo, or meet them one-on-one.

A cosplayer in a fantasy-inspired costume with long lavender pigtails and large elf ears speaks into a microphone while leading a panel at FAN EXPO. Seated behind a table with a laptop, they address a room of attendees, one of whom has their hand raised to ask a question. The backdrop features repeating FAN EXPO and “For the Fans” logos.

COSPLAY RED CARPET

Ready for the Cosplay Red Carpet? There's no pre-registration, no competition, and no stress. Walk the red carpet to show off your cosplay in front of adoring fans and get a professional photo taken by our official red carpet photographer.

A cosplayer in a fantasy-inspired costume with long lavender pigtails and large elf ears speaks into a microphone while leading a panel at FAN EXPO. Seated behind a table with a laptop, they address a room of attendees, one of whom has their hand raised to ask a question. The backdrop features repeating FAN EXPO and “For the Fans” logos.

COSPLAY MEETUPS

Who are you dressing up as? If you’re looking to take the ultimate group photo with cosplayers from the same fandom, look no further than our Cosplay Meetups. Check the schedule for specific days and times.

A cosplayer in a fantasy-inspired costume with long lavender pigtails and large elf ears speaks into a microphone while leading a panel at FAN EXPO. Seated behind a table with a laptop, they address a room of attendees, one of whom has their hand raised to ask a question. The backdrop features repeating FAN EXPO and “For the Fans” logos.

KIDS' COSPLAY RED CARPET

It's FAN EXPO Chicago’s cutest event. Come cheer on future cosplay stars at the Kids' Cosplay Red Carpet. Registration will take place 15 minutes before the event start time.