C2E2
April 11 - 13, 2025
McCormick Place

Cosplay Central is the ultimate destination for cosplay enthusiasts of all levels.

Whether you're a seasoned cosplayer or just starting out, discover a range of interactive workshops tailored to enhance your skills and connect with like-minded individuals. Our cosplay changing rooms provide convenience for transforming into your favorite characters and returning to your everyday attire, ensuring everyone can enjoy the cosplay experience.

Where? On the Show Floor near Side Quest! 

When? Cosplay Central is open Friday – Saturday 10 AM – 7 PM, Sunday 10 AM – 5 PM. Cosplay Workshop hours are located in the schedule below! 

Cosplay Admin Desk

Your friendly neighborhood Cosplay Admin booth will be located within Cosplay Central. Come on by if you have any questions about the Cosplay Central Crown Championships, Cosplay Central Costume Showcase, or C2E2 Talent Show. Please refer to our hours to know when you can catch us.  

Cosplay Admin Desk Hours

Friday  

10:30 AM – 12:00 PM 
1:00 PM – 5:00 PM  

Saturday  

10:30 AM – 11:30 AM  

Sunday  

10:30 AM – 11:30 AM   

Cosplay Central Crown Championships

The Cosplay Central Crown Championships is back for 2025! The winner of the C2E2 Qualifier will move forward into the USA Final for a chance at glory in the Crown Championships Global Final.

Craftsmanship is at the heart of the championship so expect to see some incredible creations on the stage.  All the entries will have their costume construction inspected by our judges before they take to stage and show off their creations.  

Make sure to head to the Main Stage on Saturday to see which of the incredible entries will claim victory and receive a cash prize and a chance to compete in the US finals where they will compete against winners selected at Florida Supercon, NYCC and ECCC in the USA National Final. One of these four incredible cosplayers will triumph to compete against cosplayers from all over the world, all trying to claim the title of Crown Champion of Cosplay in the Global Final.

Applications open 9:00AM EST January 06, 2025  to 11:59PM EST February 26, 2025.
Applicants will be notified no later than March 3, 2025 regarding their acceptance into the competition. If you have any questions you may direct them to [email protected].

Applications to take part in the contest are now closed. Applications to take part in the contest are now closed” please add “Want to watch the action unfold? Head to the Main Stage to watch the show at 7:30 PM on Saturday. We’ll also be broadcasting to Room S403-AB so more people can watch this year.

Cosplay Showcase

The Cosplay Showcase is where fans and cosplayers can showcase their craftsmanship in style. Taking place on Sunday, this event is open to all cosplayers and is an opportunity for fans of all levels to strut their stuff on the main stage.

Register at the Cosplay Central administration desk during the show. There are prizes (for over 18s only) but cosplayers are free to take part just for fun if they do not wish to be judged. Family Groups and Juniors (13-17) are also welcome to take part just for fun with any costume.

Meet Your Cosplay Judges

Cosplay Judges Costume Exhibition

Cosplay Central is proud to present a special exhibit of three incredible costumes created by our guest judges. Visit the display in Cosplay Central to admire their craftsmanship and learn about how they created these stunning costumes. Check the Judges profiles to find out about meet and greet opportunities.