Convention costume advice

[Wicht]

In June the family is going to Origins in Columbus for our family vacation. One of the things my kids want to do is enter a costume contest, so we are working on the costumes now.

One question though, from a complete newbie to such things. What are the rules regarding accessories, specifically anything potentially dangerous like staffs, daggers, etc.?

We're almost done with my oldest daughter's costume, a wizard's costume. I've already made her a staff and was looking into costume daggers when I realized that such things might not be allowed.

Anyone with any advice or comments on such things, please post. Thanks.

 

[Baron Opal]

Most conventions have weapon policies printed in the convention booklet, online or otherwise available upon request. Simply, don't bring any kind of weapon to a convention and you'll be fine.

Of the conventions that I have been to the guidelines that I remember:

• Anything looking remotely like a firearm is out.
• Any sharpened metal archaic weapon is out.
• Most unsharpened metal weapons are out.
• Most wooden clubs and staffs are out.
• But, sometimes staves under 5' are okay.
• Plastic weapons, particularly those that are obviously fake when you get close, are okay.

Since it is a costume contest, and I have seen some pretty impressive Link costumes (Legend of Zelda) complete with swords, it really depends. There will be guidelines and policies, you just have to find them.

Oh, wait, just read your post with improved comprehension. I'm sure you can contact someone there to get their policy. Admittedly, I couldn't find it on their site after a quick scan.

 

[Wicht]

On doing further research, it looks like Origins did not have a fantasy costume contest last year. Which is a bummer. My kids still want costumes for the convention though. I think the staff is out per their guidelines from last year, though it is less than five feet long, and likely my oldest son's wooden, metal reinforced shield.

 

[Brown Jenkin]

Shouldn't be an issue for you but I thought I would point out as well that most conventions also ban military uniforms from WWII on unless they are official uniforms being worn by Active Duty Military.