Comic Con is recognized globally for fostering creativity and inclusivity. Cosplay is a huge part of that ethos, and Comic Con Cape Town invites fans to step into the shoes of their favourite characters with Cosplay. Whether dressing in an elaborate handmade costume or a simple store-bought outfit, fans can ramp up the excitement by getting into character.
While Cosplay isn’t mandatory, it’s highly encouraged, offering fans the chance to completely immerse themselves in the world of Comic Con and the atmosphere of the festival. From casual cosplay moments to high-stakes competitions and international Cosplay stars, this is the event where everyone can celebrate their love of all things pop culture and pay homage to their favourite characters.
Daily Casual Cosplay Competitions
Daily casual competitions allow fans to compete and win prizes even if they aren’t pro Cosplayers. Fans are as welcome to arrive in store bought costumes as they are in their own handmade creations. For added inspiration each day of the con is themed, with Thespian Thursday, Freaky Friday, Superhero Saturday, and Star Wars Sunday setting the tone. However, all characters are welcome on all days. These daily competitions can be entered on the spur of the moment and there are two opportunities to register throughout the day at Cosplay Central – but spots are limited. Kids can also join in the fun, with a special KidsCon Zone Cosplay Showcase.
The Unmissable Cosplay Competition
One of the highlights of the festival, the Comic Con Cape Town Cosplay Competition showcases unmissable Cosplays that are nothing short of works of art. Cosplays can take hundreds of hours to complete, featuring incredible detail and accuracy that takes a multitude of impressive skills and patience to create. With four skill levels being judged, categories incorporate the overall Masters Champion, a Champion of Needlework, and a Champion of Armour. 2025 brings the new Novice, Journeyman, and Advanced levels, enabling Cosplayers of all skills a chance to win. The Cape Town overall Masters Champ gets the opportunity to make their way to the Comic Con Africa Cosplay Championship without needing to apply. The Comic Con Africa champ is sent to represent South Africa at C2E2 in Chicago, USA. Applications for this competition close on 5 April, and the limited spots are going fast.
Meet International Cosplay Icons
Comic Con Cape Town 2025 proudly welcomes renowned international cosplayers Yuji Koi and Mayo Cosplay, who are ready to share their expertise, showcase their work, and inspire fans throughout the event. These appearances are a thrilling opportunity for the local Cosplay community to interact with professional Cosplay icons at the top of their craft.
Two International Competitions: Regional Qualifiers
There are two super exciting international competitions, with local qualifiers for both being held at Comic Con Cape Town. The Extreme Cosplay Gathering (ECG) winner will be sent on an expenses-paid trip to Paris for three days to compete in the prestigious ECG. The winner of the World Cosplay Summit (WCS) qualifier will be sent on a once-in-a-lifetime expenses-paid eight-day trip to Japan to potentially become the World Cosplay Summit Champion. These are epic opportunities to see the world and compete against some of the best Cosplayers in the world, only at Comic Con Cape Town.
The Ultimate Cosplay Celebration
With Comic Con Cape Town just around the corner, the city is gearing up for an unforgettable celebration of creativity and fandom. From casual Cosplay moments to high-stakes competitions and international Cosplay stars, this is the event where everyone – whether a seasoned Cosplayer or a first-time participant – can come together and celebrate their love for pop culture in style.
Want to Know More About Cosplay?
Cosplay is a creative pursuit where artists known as Cosplayers create costumes, or Cosplays, of their favourite characters from comics, films and series, gaming, anime shows, graphic novels, books, and more. Their attention-to-detail is epic, and the crafting skills required are truly impressive. Not just a sewing machine and glue-gun activity, Cosplayers demonstrate skills that incorporate moving parts, electronics, embroidery, and advanced artistic talents.
Comic Con Cape Town 2025 takes place at CTICC 2 from 1 to 4 May. Tickets are available now, starting from R220, through Howler: www.comiccon.howler.co.za.