Cosplay is a huge hit at conventions, and WonderCon was no exception! Held just minutes from Disneyland at the Anaheim Convention Center, the convention ran from Friday, March 29th until Sunday, March 31st.
WonderCon 2024 was a celebration of comic books, sci-fi, and film, with cosplayers stealing the show! Our cameras captured cosplay highlights from the bustling Anaheim Convention Center on Day 3, where hundreds of enthusiastic exhibitors displayed their wares. WonderCon’s vibrant cosplay scene was fueled by meet-ups – welcoming gatherings for cosplayers of all fandoms and skill levels to connect, share their passion, and capture unforgettable photos.
WonderCon Cosplay Gallery
For many, cosplay is a way to express themselves, be creative, and make new friends. It creates a sense of community that most grown-ups lose after high school or college. For some, it goes so far as to make them feel more confident about themselves, often without even realizing it. Many find it an avenue for self-discovery. And let’s face it, dressing up is simply a lot of fun!
For more WonderCon Cosplay check out:
Connecting with Cosplayers at WonderCon 2024
WonderCon 2024 – Day 1 Cosplay Gallery
Day 2 Cosplay Gallery from WonderCon 2024
Cosplay Gallery from WonderCon 2024 – Day 3
Doctor Who Cosplay at WonderCon 2024
Tips for Searching for Cosplay Meet-ups at Large Conventions
For conventions with a large number of attendees, here’s how to find existing cosplay meetups before scheduling your own:
1. Check for Existing Meetups:
- Search online for “[Convention Name] + [Year] + Cosplay Meetup.” This should provide a good starting point.
- Explore the official convention event page. Look for discussions or announcements about cosplay meetups. Some anime conventions actively promote fan-organized events.
- Check the convention website for signup sheets or dedicated sections featuring fan-organized meetups.
2. Look Beyond Facebook:
- Explore other social media platforms: Use hashtags related to the convention you’re attending (e.g., #WonderCon2024Cosplay) to discover cosplay meetups.
- Google “[Convention Name] Cosplay Meetup.” Fan-organized events might have dedicated websites or be announced on relevant blogs.
3. Leverage Cosplay Communities:
- Facebook groups dedicated to cosplay and cosplay photography can be a goldmine. Search for groups named after your convention or using “[Your Location] Cosplay.” They often discuss and advertise meetups.
- These groups are also great for promoting your cosplay meetup if you decide to organize one.
4. Consider Scheduling:
- Once you’ve identified existing meetups, avoid scheduling yours at the same time. Staggering them allows attendees, photographers, and spectators to participate in more meetups and take more photos.
- Be mindful of popular locations: If you plan your meetup in a high-traffic area, having too many happening at once can lead to overcrowding and confusion.
By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to finding or planning the perfect cosplay meetup experience at your next large convention.