Get ready for Holiday Cosplay Tampa Bay 2024, the bay area’s most unique X-mas celebration, happening December 14-15 at the historic St. Petersburg Coliseum. Whether you’re a seasoned cosplayer, a first-time fan, or just looking for a holiday adventure, here are 7 magical reasons why this is a must-attend event to celebrate cosplay, community, and the holidays like never before.
reason #1: big Cosplay Contests with Exciting Upgrades
Holiday Cosplay Tampa Bay takes its contests to the next level! This year, we’re introducing the Novice Craftsmanship Cosplay Contest, designed for new competitors with little or no contest experience. Returning favorites include the Craftsmanship Contest for intermediate and advanced cosplayers, the Runway Contest for all styles, and Florida Comic Cons’ Best Cosplay We See! Competition will be roaming the convention halls. Applications, available on the website, are open till December 10th.
But that’s not all—every contest now features exciting upgrades, including Instagram handle displays during introductions, post-contest winners’ Q&A sessions, and even opportunities for private feedback from expert judges. Plus, every craftsmanship contestant gets a Con Map Profile on our website, giving you a spotlight before the event even begins!
reason #2: newbie welcome experience
Make this holiday season extra special by introducing your fam and friends to the magic of fan conventions! The Newbies Welcome Experience is perfect for first-timers, kicking off with a panel titled “First Time at a Fan Convention? Start Here” at 11 AM each day. Hosted by the talented guest cosplayers, it’s followed by a guided tour of the convention and capped off with a group photo to commemorate the day. Bring your newbie loved ones and friends and drop them off at the panel. Learn more
reason #3: free pics with santa & mrs. claus
Capture the magic of the holidays with free photos with the real Santa and Mrs. Claus—straight from the North Pole! Not only will you meet the jolly duo, but you can also level up your holiday memory by adding guest cosplayers to the frame for a one-of-a-kind festive keepsake. Santa’s photo times are Saturday 11am-2pm, and Sunday 11am-12:30pm. Don’t miss the chance to create the best holiday photo of the season, perfect for sharing with family and friends! More info.
reason #4: Best holiday shopping in the universe
Skip the crowded malls and generic online stores—Holiday Cosplay Tampa Bay transforms into the best holiday shopping destination in the universe! With over 100 vendor booths, you’ll find one-of-a-kind gifts for everyone on your list. From anime merch and handcrafted accessories to fan art and collectibles, there’s something for every fandom. Shopping at the event also means supporting talented local artists and vendors who bring creativity and passion to their work. Why settle for ordinary when you can give extraordinary gifts this holiday season? Learn more about the vendors on the event Con Map.
reason #5: cosplay feedback opportunities
Our talented guest cosplayers are the heart of Holiday Cosplay Tampa Bay. Not only are they hosting and judging contests, but they’re also offering Cosplay Feedback sessions during their booth hours. Whether you’re looking for advice on sewing, armor crafting, makeup, or finishing techniques, this is a rare chance to get one-on-one guidance from the best in the business. They’re expecting you at their booths so take advantage of this opportunity! Learn more.
reason #6: inspiring cosplay workshops
Take your cosplay skills to the next level with our hands-on cosplay workshops, hosted by guest cosplayers. Workshops are included with your ticket, so all you have to do is show up and learn! Workshops include (see Schedule for day/time/room):
- Intro to Molding & Casting workshop
- Getting Started Creating Your Dream Cosplay workshop
- Getting Started with Foam Armor workshop
- Corsets and Historical Inspiration in Cosplay workshop
- Cosplay Performing & Competitions workshop
- Creating Leathers & Feathers workshop
reason #7: add a holiday touch to your cosplay
Holiday Cosplay Tampa Bay is the perfect opportunity to add a festive spin to your favorite character. Think candy cane props, twinkling holiday lights, or winter-themed redesigns—it’s a chance to get creative and celebrate the season in style! There is no better way to celebrate the holidays!
bonus reason: affordable fun
Tickets to Holiday Cosplay Tampa Bay are affordable (Saturday $20, Sunday $15, weekend $25- prices increase $5 at door). And parking is free. Plus, our limited time bundle deal lets you add tickets to St. Pete Comic Con 2025— essentially two cons for the price of one! Deals like this make it easier than ever for you, your fam, your friends to join the fun! Get tickets, including bundles.
