Cosplay and Prop Rules

We want everyone to have a safe, enjoyable experience at our events, free from harm or hate.

Rules apply throughout the venue, not just in event areas. Fan Frontier (the Producer) reserves the right to deny entry, cancel tickets without refund, or revoke access for rule violations. The Producer and Venue Security may confiscate prohibited or potentially harmful items. If legally returnable, items can be collected upon exit.

No exceptions apply, including for special licenses or training. Attendees bring items at their own risk.

Cosplay often includes props that resemble weapons. While all props at this event must meet safety rules, they can be fragile, expensive, and crafted with great care.

Common materials like foam, wood, and plastic can mimic real weapons, but actual metal blades, solid wooden bats, and functional firearms are strictly prohibited. Please handle props carefully to avoid damage.

If unsure about an item, call for assistance. Props must be inspected and "Peace Bonded" at the Prop Check table. Cosplayers with untagged props should be directed there.

Non-compliant props must be covered, removed, or stored in the secure cloakroom. If an attendee refuses inspection, treat their prop as non-compliant.

Banned Items

  • Firearms (including replicas, BB guns, airsoft, etc.)

  • Glass bottles, alcohol, cigarettes, and e-cigarettes

  • Metal blades (e.g., swords, knives, axes, etc.)

  • Bats, clubs, and heavy objects

  • Projectile weapons (bows, crossbows, etc.)

  • Laser pointers, drones, sharp items (nails, needles, etc.)

  • Fog, smoke, or vapor-producing items

  • Pressurised containers, power tools, chemicals, explosives

  • Items like bokken, knuckledusters, nunchaku, etc.

  • Heavy items with weapon potential

  • Selfie sticks, silly string, glitter, confetti, vuvuzelas

  • Rollerblades, scooters, skateboards, hoverboards, RC cars

Bought At the Event

Items on prohibited lists bought at the event MUST remain in their original packaging. The exhibitor may offer postage if the item is lawfully unable to be carried in public.

Permission to exemption from these rules can only be obtained from the Producers on a case-by-case basis.

COSPLAY APPROPRIATE/PERMITTED PROP ITEMS

Permitted Cosplay Prop Items:

  • Lightweight materials (foam, plastic, lightweight wood, paper/cardboard)

  • Practical items (umbrellas, walking sticks)

  • Lightweight items (rolling pins, vegetables, pans, racquets)

  • Handheld musical instruments

  • Coiled whips

  • Lightsabers

  • Foam or plastic prop weapons (clubs, paddles, bats)

  • Toy or unrealistic guns (brightly coloured, with visible red/orange tips)

  • Maximum prop size: 150cm in length/height; 100cm for shields. Items larger must be dismantled for transport.

The Producers and Venue security may confiscate any items if misused.

ATTIRE AND COSTUMES

  • No sharp edges or unlawful items are allowed.

  • Costumes must not exceed 2.5 meters between any two points (excluding collapsible parts or fabric trains). For bulky or hard materials (e.g., armour, fur suits), have a guide with you.

  • Nudity, replica genitalia, adult fetish attire, extreme BDSM gear, or sexual items are not permitted.

  • Skimpy costumes are allowed but must cover more than typical swimwear. Take precautions for potential malfunctions.

Please remember that our events are family-friendly, with attendees of all ages.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

  • Wristbands/handstamps must be placed on skin, not over clothing or costumes (unless permitted by the Producers). Staff cannot assist with costume removal. Lanyards must be worn visibly around the neck.

  • Transport weapon props carefully—keep them covered to avoid public distress. Be mindful that not everyone is familiar with Cosplay.

  • The Producers and Venue may intervene if attire includes profanities, sexual content, hate symbols, offensive makeup, or imagery linked to crimes against humanity.

  • For further guidance on attire or props, contact cosplay@forthefans.uk