TAMPA, Fla. (WFLA) – The Tampa Bay Comic Convention returned to Tampa this weekend and brought back the ever-popular cosplay (costume) contest, which went off without a hitch.
Pre-judging events took place throughout the day to help the event go more smoothly.
Monetary awards were given to winners of numerous categories during the cosplay contest this year at the convention. Those include (according to the convention’s website):
- Best In Show – $5,000
- Best Group – $2,500
- Best Craftsmanship – $550
- Best Likeness – $550
- Best Video Game – $200
- Best TV – $200
- Best Film – $200
- Best Comic Book – $200
- Best Anime – $200
- Best Closet Cosplay – $200
- Best Kids – $200
The event was one of the last in the area to be canceled amid the height of the coronavirus pandemic last year, after receiving the word to go on.
In addition to the cosplay contest, there are featured panels, daily panels, exhibitors, and celebrity guests featured at the convention.
Celebrity guests available for autographs and photos are Joey Fatone, Judith Hoag, Daniel Logan, Kevin Sorbo, and David Ramsey.
The convention runs Friday from noon until midnight, Saturday from 9 a.m. to midnight, and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Tampa Convention Center. The exhibitor hall closed at 7 p.m.
Tickets are still available for pre-order online.