Cosplay Contest
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Rules & Policies:
If you are considering cosplaying during the convention, please take a look at our Prop & Costume Policy to make sure any props and costumes you might be wearing are allowed and appropriate. This includes our policy on metal weapons, body paint, and prop guns so please consider these rules before you bring or wear items that our or our University's policy may not allow.
We will be enforcing our policies during badge pick-up and weapons check-in. If any prohibited items or props are found, you will be asked to leave with the prop or costume and will not be allowed in. If the costume is deemed too inappropriate we will ask you to change into other clothing before entering.
Please take a close look at our Cosplay Contest Rules before registering for the competition. If you have any questions regarding the competition please reach out to ui.con.questions@gmail.com for further information.
Competition Categories:
Construction
Construction
For those who made at least 60% of their costume, graded by craftsmanship.
Walk-On
Walk-On
This category is for anyone who just wants to walk the stage and strike a few poses!
UI-CON 2026 Cosplay Judges:
McKenzie Shane
McKenzie Shane
McKenzie Shane, artist, graphic designer, cosplayer, and proud U of I alumni. McKenzie started competitive cosplay in 2021, accumulating several category placements, a Best in Show at l2024's UI-CON Cosplay Contest, and her most recent achievement, Best Paint at Winter Cosplay Championship at Holiday Matsuri.
Skunk
Skunk
Skunk is a competitive cosplayer from Indiana that frequents Chicago conventions known best for her various Isabelle Cosplays. Skunk has been cosplaying since 2013; In 2022 Skunk finally decided to take competing seriously. Within the few years following, Skunk quickly moved through the divisions and landed into the Master Category, winning her first “Best In Show” award at Ramencon 2025!
JillyCat
JillyCat
JillyCat is a splatoon-loving cosplayer with skills in wigs, sewing, and prop making. She has accumulated category wins at Anime Midwest, Anime Zap, and BoilerCon; including best group, beginner, and journeyman wins. Check out her panels to nerd out on your favorite fandoms!
UI-CON 2025 Cosplay Judges:
MaryMaryCosplay
MaryMaryCosplay
Mary has been competing for 10 years and is a multi-award winning cosplayer, accumulating category wins, Master level wins, best in Shows, to placements in national and international invitational competitions such as Dragoncon and the prestigious Crown Championship of Cosplay.
McKenzie Shane
McKenzie Shane
McKenzie Shane, artist, graphic designer, cosplayer, and proud U of I alumni. McKenzie started competitive cosplay in 2021, accumulating several category placements, a Best in Show at 2024's UI-CON Cosplay Contest, and her most recent achievement, Best Paint at Winter Cosplay Championship at Holiday Matsuri.
JillyCatCosplay
JillyCatCosplay
JillyCat is a splatoon-loving cosplayer with skills in wigs, sewing, and prop making. She has accumulated category wins at Anime Midwest, Anime Zap, and BoilerCon; including best group, beginner, and journeyman wins. Check out her panels to nerd out on your favorite fandoms!
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