Cosplay has long been a part of the convention scene. Lately it seems to be front and center thanks to TV shows like “Heroes of Cosplay” that highlight big name professional cosplayers such as Yaya Hahn. Cosplay special guests have been popping up on all the convention schedules this year and more people than ever are getting into the spirit of this very special fandom. So where do you go to see the best cosplays? We have your guide to the top 5 conventions to see the best cosplays of 2014!
Dragon*Con, Aug 29 –Sept 1, 2014
This Atlanta based convention has been hailed by fans and cosplayers alike as the cosplay event of the year. With fandoms ranging from comics, anime, and games all the way to Broadway musicals! You will see a wide array of high quality costumes that never disappoint.
(Photo credit: https://io9.com/5940438/ultimate-proof-that-dragoncon-has-the-best-cosplay-on-earth/)
Anime Expo (AX), July 3rd-6th 2014
This large scale, anime and manga convention takes place in Los Angeles, California. It’s quickly become known for its fans detailed and highly accurate cosplays. Costumers from all over the world come to participate in the Masquerade event to display their craft and showmanship.
( Photographer: Martin Wong, Cosplayer: Jessica Nigiri)
SDCC (San Diego Comic Con) JULY 24-27, 2014
This convention is widely known to be the biggest and best comic con. Not only does it bring in big name industry stars, but it also brings out cosplayers (and their fans!) in droves. Last year alone over 7,000 fans watched the Masquerade. This year there are plans to make the event even bigger. This convention has the costumes you do not want to miss!
(https://www.comic-con.org/awards/masquerade-awards/photo-gallery)
Blizzcon
This event is held in Anaheim, California and celebrates all things Warcraft, StarCraft and Diablo. This event hasn’t always been known for cosplay, but in recent years has drawn in big names in the cosplay world with some of the highest quality costumes in the convention scene.
(https://us.battle.net/blizzcon/en/)
PAX Prime
People come from all over travel to attend this large scale gaming convention in Seattle, Washington. Cosplayers of all levels are seen with costumes covering all platforms and genres in the gaming community. This is a great convention for first time cosplayers with a love of gaming.
(Photo by: Lisa Juvinall, https://prime.paxsite.com/gallery/category/culture)