Categories:

1. 13 & Under (Youth)
2. 14 & up (Adult)
3. Group costumes

Registration:

Sign up at the Ai Hoshi table on the left side of VPAT before pre-judging begins at 12:30

Timeline:

• 10:00-12:30 Registration
• 12:30-2:00   Pre-judging in the Ai Hoshi Cafe area
• 2:00-3:00     Cosplay contest and awards inside VPAT

Rules:

1. No nudity. No costume is no costume. Body-paint costumes are not eligible.
2. All genres of costume are allowed, it is encouraged that your costume have an original source (e.g. anime, manga, video game, etc.) that judges would recognize.
3. You will turn in your cosplay card to our convention volunteer, who will then introduce you to the stage. You will then have 15 seconds to show off your cosplay design. You may use less time and there is leeway with going over the time limit. 
4. No profanity allowed. That includes messages on signs or clothes. Anyone who violates this may be disqualified from the competition and asked to leave the convention area.
5. No political or religious statements. Anyone who violates this may be disqualified from the competition.
6. Costumes must be self-contained. If costumes are too large for the participant to handle and navigate by oneself an assistant may be used. Contestants must bring their own assistant, no assistants will be provided by Vaca-Con staff.
7. Nothing is to be left on the stage after the performance including, but not limited to, glitter, confetti, and streamers.
8. No projectiles, flashpots, explosive devices, or similar special effects are to be used. Anyone who violates this rule may be disqualified from the competition and asked to leave the convention area.
9. Do not bring real swords, guns, or any type of authentic weapon to the show–only props are allowed. Simulated or costume weapons are allowed as long as they are in compliance with the following rules:
   • No projectile weapons (including but not limited to airsoft or paintball weapons)
   • No weapons with a metal blade, regardless if it is dull or sharp
   • Metal weapons, chains, bats or shields (with or without sharp edges) are not permitted
   • Prop weapons should be made of lightweight materials such as foam, cardboard, or plastic
   • No heavy wood props including shields and bats
   • All prop firearms must have an orange cap on the barrel
   • Weapons which are capable of firing (Nerf guns, bows, etc.) must be rendered inoperable
   • Do not brandish weapons or props in a threatening manner
   • Keep weapons in the convention area
   • If you leave the convention premises, please put away any weaponry–even if it clearly looks fake
10. For safety reasons, the following are not allowed:
    • Live animals
    • Substances which might damage or soil
    • Aerosol sprays
    • Entries that could potentially damage the facilities, other participants or the wearer will not be allowed
    • Entries with electric power requirements
11. Each contestant may only enter one costume into competition, appearing on stage once in a single entry.
12. Tech rehearsals are not offered.
13. Children participating in the contest should be accompanied by an adult at all times.

*All cosplayers and their costumes are subject to approval by the City of Vacaville and event staff*

Join us for a lively 18+ after-party on Saturday, April 11th. More info to come.

The Kids Zone will feature a variety of interactive STEM activities, hands-on learning opportunities, and a whole lot of excitement! Brought to you by The Academy of 21st Century Learning

More information and schedule to come.

All cosplay weaponry must be checked in at the Peace Bonding Station!

What is peace bonding?

A peace bond is a visible lock or tie placed on a weapon to clearly show it is not intended for violent use. It’s for the safety of all attendees and is required for all realistic-looking weapons at Vaca-Con. How to Peace Bond: - A zip tie will typically be placed over the trigger, making it impossible to pull. - For bladed weapons, the peace bond will secure the weapon in its sheath.

Please visit the Peace Bonding Station near the entrance upon arrival to ensure your cosplay is fully compliant! We want everyone to have a fun and safe experience at Vaca-Con!

To be determined