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Cosplay At HellmouthCon
Everything you need to know for a welcoming experience.
Welcome to Cosplay on the Hellmouth
One of the most exciting parts of HellmouthCon is seeing Sunnydale High come alive through the creativity of the fans walking its halls.
Whether you’re screen-accurate, closet cosplay, a deep-cut Buffyverse reference, an original Slayer, a Wolfram & Hart employee, a vengeance demon, or simply wearing your favorite fandom tee, cosplay is part of the HellmouthCon experience.
We welcome:
• Screen-accurate recreations
• Gender-swapped interpretations
• Mashups and crossover concepts
• Original Buffyverse-inspired characters
• Casual cosplay and fandom fashion
HellmouthCon is designed to feel immersive, welcoming, and community-driven, and cosplay helps make the campus feel like Sunnydale all over again.
Costume Expectations
HellmouthCon is a cosplay-friendly, all-ages event held on a real historic school campus. Costumes should remain appropriate for a public, family-friendly environment and allow safe movement throughout the campus.
Please remember:
• Approved footwear is required at all times
• Costumes should not create unsafe obstructions or hazards
• Large costumes or oversized props may be restricted in crowded areas
• Event staff may request adjustments to costumes or props if needed for safety or venue compliance
Most importantly, use Sunnydale-level common sense and help us create a fun and welcoming atmosphere for everyone.
Props & Weapons Overview
Cosplay props are welcome as part of approved costumes, but all costume weapons and props must comply with HellmouthCon safety guidelines.
All props and costume weapons must be inspected and approved by Convention Operations (ConOps) at the Weapons / Costume Props Desk near Registration and Will Call.
Please note:
• Functional weapons are prohibited
• Projectile props must be rendered inoperable
• Unsafe or disruptive props may not be permitted
• Approved props will be tagged by ConOps
For complete rules and prohibited item information:
Campus & Comfort Tips
Sunnydale High is a real working campus with outdoor walkways, stairs, courtyards, and long stretches between activities.
Cosplayers are strongly encouraged to:
• Stay hydrated throughout the weekend
• Bring comfortable backup shoes when possible
• Consider lightweight costume options during warmer afternoon hours
• Use sunscreen for outdoor activities and photo locations
• Plan ahead for carrying props, capes, wings, or oversized costume pieces
The Hellmouth may be dangerous, but dehydration is undefeated.
Photography Etiquette
HellmouthCon is an extremely photo-friendly event, but please remember that cosplay is not consent.
Please:
• Ask before photographing cosplayers or attendees
• Respect personal space and accessibility needs
• Avoid blocking walkways or panel entrances for photo sessions
• Follow all staff instructions regarding photography restrictions or crowd flow
• Be mindful that some areas may become crowded during peak photo times
Photography and casual video in general convention areas are welcome provided they do not interfere with convention operations or attendee safety.
Cosplay Meetups
Throughout the weekend, attendees often organize cosplay meetups, fandom gatherings, themed group photos, and informal Scooby meet-and-greets across the Sunnydale High campus.
Some meetups may be officially scheduled, while others happen spontaneously as fans discover fellow Slayers, Watchers, vampires, and Sunnydale survivors throughout the event.
Group meetup times and organized cosplay gatherings may be announced closer to the convention weekend through official schedules and social media updates.
Sunnydale-Inspired Cosplay Ideas
Need inspiration? HellmouthCon celebrates cosplay from across the Buffyverse and beyond.
Popular ideas include:
• Sunnydale High students
• Scooby Gang members
• Initiative personnel
• Watchers Council looks
• Once More, With Feeling costumes
• Prom outfits and formalwear
• Wolfram & Hart employees
• Original Slayers, demons, or vampire characters
• Deep-cut episode references only true fans will recognize
No matter your fandom level, creativity and enthusiasm are always welcome on the Hellmouth.
Accessibility & Mobility Notes
Because the convention takes place across a historic campus, some areas include stairs, outdoor terrain, and longer walking distances between activities.
Attendees using mobility devices or requiring accessibility assistance are encouraged to review our Accessibility Information before attending.
Our team is happy to help answer questions regarding:
• Accessible pathways
• Elevator access
• Seating accommodations
• Service animal guidelines
• General accessibility concerns
Additional Policies & Guidelines
For full convention policies regarding costumes, props, prohibited items, attendee conduct, photography, safety procedures, and campus rules:
📲 Questions & Contact Information
Need help before or during HellmouthCon? Our team is happy to assist with ticketing, accessibility, volunteering, and general event questions.
HellmouthCon & Event Support
• Ticketing & Registration: registration@hellmouthevents.org
• Accessibility Assistance: access@hellmouthevents.org
• Volunteer Information: volunteers@hellmouthevents.org
• General Event Questions: info@hellmouthevents.org
Fandom Charities Inc.
• Organization & Nonprofit Questions: info@fandomcharities.org