welcome!

Contestants and panel hosts are the heart of our event, bringing talent, passion, and creativity to the forefront. Fan-led panels provide a unique opportunity for attendees to share their knowledge and enthusiasm with the community, making each session both engaging and personal. Our contestants, with their incredible costumes and energy, light up the stage and inspire others with their craftsmanship and performance. Together, you play a vital role in creating an unforgettable experience for everyone, showcasing the best of fandom and making the event truly special. 

faq

How long are panels?

Panels are 1 hour, keeping in mind there is a panel prior to yours and one following.

Where are panels held?

There are two panels happening simultaneously with one in the upstairs balcony and the other in a downstairs alcove. See the Con Map to learn more.

What staff and technology are provided in the panel rooms?

We do not staff our panel rooms, which are ready for panel hosts and your presentations. Both the balcony panel room and alcove panel room have a projector with screen that is connected to a laptop. Just bring your thumb drive to plug in. In addition, the balcony panel room has a microphone. In the alcove panel room a microphone is not needed. 

Do I need to bring my presentation for my panel?

Yes, please bring your presentation on a thumb drive.

How long are contests?

It varies by contest with some like lip sync and runway taking longer (up to 2 hours). Check the schedule to learn more.

What staff and technology are provided for the contests?

We have guest cosplayers who host the contests, and our DJ who provides music and technology support. And we’ve recently added stage lights (from above and below) to enhance the performances.

Do I need to bring my song or video for my contest?

No, your song or video will already be loaded on our laptop, ready for your performance/

Can I change my song or video after submitting it as part of my application?

No, unfortunately it involves too much time to make changes to songs or videos. Please keep in mind we have more than 100 contestants and panel hosts, and the enormous amount of time it would take to make constant changes to songs, videos, and presentation topics. Also, our policy of not making such changes after applications have been submitted is the industry standard.

When should I arrive for my panel or contest?

Plan to arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled time to check in, set up, and be ready to go. The exception to this is craftsmanship contestants, who have pre-judging times that are listed on their Schedule profiles.

When is my Craftsmanship Cosplay Contest pre-judging time?

Your pre-judging time will be listed on your Schedule profile. 

Where do I meet for Craftsmanship Cosplay Contest pre-judging?

Next to the main stage near the guest cosplayer alcoves.

What do I get for participating as a contestant or panel host?

Each contestant or panel host will receive:

• 1 free weekend pass to enjoy the full event, and your name will be at the front info desk (skip the ticket window line). 
• 1 dessert ticket, you’ll receive when checking in.
• A BOGO code to share with family and friends for discounted tickets that you receive upon acceptance.

Do you promote contestants and panel hosts?

Yes, we promote contestants and panel hosts in several different way starting months prior to the event, which may make us unique in the entire industry in this regard.

Each contestant and panel host gets a profile on our online schedule, which allows you to add photos, videos, social media, and other background info on you. You can use this profile to promote your participation to your fam and friends.

Also, each receives template graphics that you can personalize and use to promote your contest or panel. Tag us on FB, IG and we’ll share!

Can I bring someone to help with my panel or contest?

Anyone participating as a panel host or contestants gets free entry. However, we don’t allow handlers for contestants or panel hosts free entry, which is the industry standard. 

What happens if I’m late?

Timeliness is crucial! If you are late, you may risk forfeiting your spot or reducing your panel time. Please communicate any delays to event staff as soon as possible so we can do our best to accommodate.

Who can I contact with additional questions or issues?

Please use the Contact email on this website.