COSPLAY ATTRACTIONS

Meet the makers and the dreamers. From hand-stitched costumes to perfectly styled wigs, our cosplay guests are ready to showcase their skills. Don’t miss your chance to see them in action.

Eight Cities. Eight champions. One Master of Cosplay. Come cheer on your favorite coplayers as they compete for glory, $1,000 cash, and a chance to represent FAN EXPO Dallas in the Grand Finale in 2026. Are you a seasoned cosplayer and want to compete? Click the button below to apply.

Head to the Cosplay Showcase to see amazing creations and builds by local cosplayers in this museum-style exhibition. Take pictures, learn from seasoned cosplayers, and get some inspiration for your next look. Are you a seasoned cosplayer and want to showcase your work? Click the button below to apply.

Small cosplayers, big dreams. The Kids’ Cosplay Red Carpet is a celebration of young talent and big ideas. Watch as future stars step into the spotlight—because every great cosplayer starts somewhere. Registration takes place 15 minutes before the event. Check the schedule closer to the show for details.

The Cosplay Red Carpet isn’t a competition—it’s a celebration. Show off your look, pose for the cameras, and soak in the energy of a crowd that gets it. Because this moment? It’s yours. Check the schedule closer to the show for details.

Master the art of cosplay. Our lineup of pros is ready to share their secrets through panels, demos, and one-on-one meet-and-greets. Get tips, ask questions, and see how they turn ideas into pure magic. Some panels you can look forward to this year include:

• Monster School 102: Making Custom Prosthetics
• Shapeshifting 101: The Art of Transformation
• Mastering Prosthetics in SFX: A live Cosplay Makeup Demonstration
• Face the Makeup: Body Paint 101
• Hone Your Hook Skills: How to Include Crochet and Cosplay

Panels and schedule are subject to change.

Find your fandom. Cosplay Meetups are the perfect spot for group photos, new friends, and a shared love of all things geek. Check the schedule closer to the show to find your crew and strike a pose.

Step into a world where passion meets purpose in our Community Zone. Whether you're seeking costume repair wizards, fellow heroes on a mission, or kindred spirits who transform imagination into reality, you'll find your tribe here. This year's community groups include:

• Cause to Play
• The Cosplay Repair Lounge (can be found in Cosplay HQ)
• Lone Star Avengers

Photoshoots, leveled up. The Cosplay Photo Park is dedicated to capturing the best group shots. Step in, show off and pose alongside fellow fans. Check the schedule closer to the show to see when your crew is gathering.

Finish your look. Whether you’re hunting for that perfect wig, the right prop, or an entirely new outfit, our retail floor is packed with all the pieces you need to make your cosplay dreams a reality.

Step onto the board and become the game. In Cosplay Chess, you are the pieces. No chess experience needed—just bring your character to life as you battle, stumble, and strategize your way across the board. How would your cosplay fight? How would they fall? There's only one way to find out. Check the schedule closer to the show for details.