What You Need for a Cosplay Competition

A cosplay competition needs more than costumes and prizes. You’ll need a clear judging setup, a private changing area, reliable sound, good lighting, and enough space for participants to move safely. This shopping list covers the practical items that are easy to overlook, from extension cords and mirrors to jury tables, reusable cups and serving equipment. Check quantities against your participant list, then buy or collect key equipment at least one week before the event.

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What to bring

Grouped the way you'd shop for it, with quantities.

Furniture

Tablesqty 8
Chairsqty 80
Dressing room racksqty 4
Foldable tablesqty 3
Mirrorsqty 4

Equipment

Speakersqty 2
Wireless microphonesqty 2
Mixer
Extension cordsqty 6
Power stripsqty 6
Laptop
Printer
Camera

Lighting

LED lampsqty 6
Light standsqty 3

Decorations

Photo backdrop
Decorative fabricqty 4
Garlandqty 8
Balloonsqty 100
Balloon pumpqty 2
Tableclothsqty 8
Red carpet
Bollardsqty 8
Barrier tapeqty 2

Tableware

Reusable cupsqty 120
Platesqty 100
Cutlery setsqty 100
Serving plattersqty 12
Coffee cupsqty 40

Kitchen

Kettlesqty 2
Coffee maker
Coolersqty 4
Thermos flasksqty 4
Cutting boardsqty 3
Kitchen knivesqty 3
Serving spoonsqty 6

Office

Jury formsqty 60
Participant formsqty 60
Bib numbersqty 60
Name badgesqty 100
Pensqty 40
Markersqty 12
Tapeqty 6
Scissorsqty 4
Clipboardqty 10
Presentation certificatesqty 60
Ballot slipsqty 100
Ballot box
Name stickersqty 120
Directional signsqty 12
Registration sign
Prizesqty 12

Catering

Groceries
- Coffee - 3 packs
- Tea - 4 boxes
- Sugar - 2 packs
- Sweetener - 1 box
- Milk - 8 liters
- Oat milk - 4 liters
- Cola - 12 bottles
- Cola Zero - 12 bottles
- Orange soda - 8 bottles
- Iced tea - 8 bottles
- Spa Blauw - 40 bottles
- Spa Rood - 20 bottles
- Apple juice - 6 packs
- Orange juice - 6 cartons
- Paprika chips - 6 bags
- Plain chips - 6 bags
- Tortilla chips - 6 bags
- Salsa sauce - 4 jars
- Salted popcorn - 5 bags
- Mini pretzels - 5 bags
- Cookies - 8 packs
- Brownies - 80 pieces
- Mini muffins - 80 pieces
- Grapes - 5 kilograms
- Apples - 50 pieces
- Bananas - 30 pieces
- Mini cucumbers - 4 kilograms
- Cherry tomatoes - 3 kilograms
- Carrots - 3 kilograms
- Hummus - 8 tubs
- Cream cheese - 4 tubs
- Herb cream cheese - 4 tubs
- Crackers - 8 packs
- Gluten-free crackers - 3 packs
- Vegan cookies - 4 packs
- Napkins - 300 pieces
- Paper towels - 8 rolls
- Toilet paper - 24 rolls
- Trash bags - 3 rolls
- Dish soap - 2 bottles
- All-purpose cleaner - 2 bottles
- Disinfectant wipes - 4 packs
- Sponges - 6 pieces
- Hand soap - 4 bottles
- Paper towels - 8 packs

Tips

Provide one changing-room rack and at least one mirror for every 10 to 15 participants. Add privacy using fabric or another suitable divider, and check the area before doors open.
Plan at least one microphone for the host and a second wireless microphone for judges or participants. Test both with the speakers and mixer before registration begins.
Bring one extension cord and one power strip for each separate equipment area, including the stage, judges’ table and registration desk. Keep cables away from walkways and secure them with barrier tape.
Use one table and two chairs for every two judges, plus a separate table for registration materials. Prepare jury forms, name badges and start numbers before the participant list closes.
Allow two to three reusable cups per person for the first hour, then add plates, cutlery and coffee cups based on the food and drink you will serve. Check kettles and serving platters before shopping day.

Frequently asked questions

What equipment do I need for a cosplay competition?: Plan for tables, chairs, a judges’ table, changing-room racks, mirrors, speakers, wireless microphones, a mixer, a laptop, a printer and a camera. Add extension cords, power strips, LED lamps and light stands so the stage and judging area can be used safely.
How many changing-room mirrors do I need for a cosplay contest?: Use at least one full-length mirror for every 10 to 15 participants. For 30 participants, prepare two to three mirrors and enough racks for costumes, bags and accessories.
When should I buy supplies for a cosplay competition?: Buy consumables and check rented or borrowed equipment at least one week before the competition. Do a final equipment and quantity check 24 hours before opening the venue.
How many microphones are needed for a cosplay competition?: Prepare two microphones: one for the host and one for judges or contestants. Keep spare batteries available and test the microphones, speakers and mixer before participants arrive.

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