DESTINATION COSPLAY
If you’re a cosplayer, or if you love and appreciate cosplay, then Destination Cosplay is where you want to be, what you want to see, and how you want to enjoy your Anime NYC! Anime NYC was even featured in New York Magazine – trust us, we’re tops when it comes to cosplay!
New this year – Destination Cosplay is taking over the River Pavilion! This hub of craftsmanship and costume experiences features a curated Cosplay Exhibition, Cosplay Photo Sets, Cosplay Meetups, Cosplay Repair, plus Cosplayer Meet and Greets! You also don’t want to miss the return of our tried and true cosplay favorites like Cosplay Panels, and the highlight of the weekend: The Cosplay Masquerade!
There’s a far-reaching community of cosplay waiting to welcome you with open arms. Level up your craft, connect with cosplay enthusiasts, and take in all the artistic sights there are to see from the world of cosplay at Anime NYC. Don’t miss it all at Destination Cosplay!
Cosplay Masquerade
Cosplay takes center stage Saturday night
Anime NYC’s Masquerade is THE can’t-miss event of the weekend! Watch incredible performers take the stage in their boldest and baddest anime-themed cosplay. Be dazzled and amazed as they move to the music and entertain you with their wackiest and most spot-on impressions and poses! Our contestants will be competing for fabulous prizes and awards, and of course fame, honor, and glory!
This year our Best in Show trophy is a masterpiece handcrafted by the legendary Hoku Props. Plus don’t miss incredible Cosplay Judges with the difficult task of determining which cosplayers will take home the trophies.
Stay tuned for more Cosplay Masquerade announcements coming soon…
Cosplay Masquerade Special Guests
Cosplay Masquerade Sponsors
Destination Cosplay in the River Pavilion
Candiiland Cosplay Photo Sets
Picture yourself in new realms…
Introducing Candiiland at Anime NYC! Make your cosplay POP when you take a photo in front of one of these incredible Cosplay Photo Sets designed by Abi Candi. Abi Candi is a content creator who enjoys cosplay, photography and set design and she has created these unique environments that will allow you to be you!
Choose from 4 sets and take a memorable photo of your cosplay squad in one of these magical worlds. Sets available at Anime NYC will include:
- Magical Girl
- Baldur’s Gate 3
- plus 2 more to be announced soon
Assemble your cosplay besties, and grab a photo in these immersive worlds!
Cosplayer Meet and Greets
Get to know a variety talented cosplay guests
Want a chance to meet and greet with your favorites from the world of cosplay? We’re assembling a schedule of meet and greets among cosplay guests at Anime NYC so you can grab a signed headshot, say hello, and maybe even grab a photo!
Aspiring cosplayers can ask their burning questions to these respected cosplayers, experts in their field. Those new to the world of cosplay can check them out up close and personal (don’t worry, they don’t bite!) And trust us, these cosplay guests cannot wait to meet you during Anime NYC!
Cosplay Exhibition
Cosplay craftsmanship on display all weekend
Get up close and personal with more than a few gorgeous hand-crafted cosplays. Featuring stunning displays of craftsmanship by talented cosplayers such as Hailium Workshop, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into a museum!
Representing a variety of skillsets as well as cosplayers from all over, we are excited for you to take in this exhibit. Whether you’re interested in seeing those hand stitched specialties up close, electrifying electrics, or impressive foam work, we will be showcasing a variety of cosplay master pieces for you to take in. What a view!
Cosplay Meetups
Celebrate your favorite fandom and make a new friend
Showcase your incredible cosplay skills, make new friends, capture pictures of these incredible moments, and immerse yourself in a world of anime magic.
Whether you’re a seasoned cosplayer or just starting out, we welcome you with open arms to be a part of Anime NYC’s Cosplay Meetups! Applications are now open, and there will be not 1, but 2 Cosplay Meetups spots in the River Pavilion – sure to inspire new friendships and epic photoshoots.
Cosplay Repair
Powered by the Paladins of Cosplay
Anime NYC is excited to partner with the Paladins of Cosplay once more to assist our cosplay community with tears, rips, popped seams and more. If you’re in need of a little cosplay TLC, then head to the River Pavilion for a little Cosplay Repair.
Looking for a costume change? There are also changing stalls located in the space, so you can cosplay up or dress down, whatever you’re in the mood for! Stay flawless as you cosplay your heart out during Anime NYC and trust that there’s always someone in Cosplay Repair who has your back and can get your cosplay back up to presentable in no time.
…plus more to be announced soon…
Cosplay Applications
Cosplay Guest Judge for the Masquerade
Thank you for your interest in being a Cosplay Guest Judge for our Masquerade! Please note that this is a rolling application that is kept open all year long and for every show year. You may not receive any response from us if you fill out this form. We will only reach out to you if we are interested in having you as a judge. We do appreciate your understanding.