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A Look at Everything We Saw at Costume-Con 39

Originally set for 2020, Costume-Con 39 was one of many events postponed during the pandemic. Rather than canceling the Bay Area event, the organizers chose to reschedule it for 2023. Having attended the event and had the opportunity to meet so many amazing people, it’s safe to say that the wait was definitely worth it.

The weekend brought together a diverse group of professionals including designers and prop makers, as well as cosplay enthusiasts. It was an insightful weekend that offered plenty of opportunities to learn from experts and make new friends. Here are some of the highlights from Costume-Con 39.

Be aware that Costume-Con is a traveling convention, which means if you missed it then you will have to venture out of state to attend the next one.

The Dealers Hall

The Dealers Hall is where guests could find all the vendors, artists, and more. Here anyone could learn about the local fan clubs or purchase that needed accessory. Here are some of the vendors that were present during the weekend:

Evil Ted is a professional visual effects artist and prop designer who was among the guests of honor. He had a booth set up in the dealer’s hall that showcased some of his work. Guest also got the chance to meet him and check out the props he has made. 

Paper Demon: ART RPG allows users to create their own original characters and put them into the game’s world. During the weekend, they were present to highlight the game while having a special promotion for new members who joined. 

Darin Chibi is an artist, illustrator, and comic creator who was present during the weekend. He was there to showcase his work while promoting his original comic series. During the event, he could be seen cosplaying as Martii Tzi, one of his original characters. 

Wolves of Mandalore is the Bay Area branch of the Mandalorian Mercs Costume Club. They are dedicated to helping fans create their own custom Mandalorian cosplay, complete with a unique artistic style and the background of their character.

BayCon is the longest-running science fiction and fantasy fan convention in the Bay Area. The staff was present to promote the upcoming event and to answer any questions guests have. The 2023 event will take place from June 30th to July 3rd at the San Mateo Marriott San Francisco Airport. 

Cosplaying at Costume-Con 39

You can’t have an event like Costume-Con without cosplayers. Many have worked for months to either create their cosplay for such an event. Those who are dedicated will work to bring their favorite character to life while others work to create an original work.

The Panels 

Conventions are also a chance to gain some insight into effective ways to create or improve a cosplay. Costume-Con 39 organized a series of panels that discussed a variety of topics given by special guests, industry insiders, or local fan clubs. 

These are some of the panels I got to check out during the weekend:

Tricks From the Drag World For Your Costuming and Makeup was an inside look at how a professional drag artist is able to bring their vision to life. Hosted by Janine Wardale, guests got to learn some effective ways of improving their cosplay. 

Traveling With Costumes, From Dainty to Humongous was the ideal panel for cosplayers that travel a lot. Hosted by Lance Ikegawa, this was a look at effective ways on how to pack your cosplay or design it to be easily transported. 

True (Cosplay) Crimes is a look at the mistakes people make when crafting their cosplay. Beverly Downen and Johanna Mead share the mistakes they have made and the end results. At the same time, advice is given on how to fix these mistakes. 

Vintage Cars Showcase

Located in the West Parking lot was the Vintage Cars Showcase. This was a chance for motorists to showcase their classic cars. Several were on display, allowing guests the chance to check out the cars and get a photo ops.

Costume-Con 42

Costume-Con 42 will be the next event and it will take place from March 29th to April 1st, 2024. The event will be hosted at Hyatt Regency in Aurora, Colorado. Organizers were present during the weekend to promote the event and answer any questions potential attendees might have. 

Did you get a chance to check out Costume-Con 39? If so then share your story in the comment section below.

Disclaimer: Costume-Con provided me with a pass for the weekend.

8Bit/Digi is an independent media outlet that provides an insight into the gamer community of the San Francisco Bay Area.