Working to preserve cosplay's past, present, and future
The Texas Cosplay Museum is a love letter to handmade costumes! It started at A-kon 2017 and has been a regular feature at San Japan since 2018. Exhibits are provided by convention attendees and lent out for the convention weekend, meaning that every year there is something new to see! Our Vintage Costumes (1970-90) are on permanent display.
Frequently Asked Questions
Thinking of submitting? We'd love to see you there! First, please read through our FAQ. If you have more questions that aren't answered here you can reach out to us at [email protected]
Who can submit?
The museum accepts handmade costumes from all skill levels and any media such as anime, video games, movies, etc. We do not accept store bought costumes.The museum is now also accepting submissions for props and/or wigs. These must be handmade or heavily altered.Does my costume need to have won an award?
Winning an award is not a requirement to be able to display with the museum. Space is limited and it is something we use when deciding on displays. However awards do not guarantee a spot.Is my costume good enough?
Absolutely! The museum is looking to display costumes of all skill levels from beginner to advanced.Can I submit more than one costume?
Yes, but if accepted only one costume will be picked by the staff. Be sure you are okay with any of the costumes submitted being accepted as staff has final say on the one picked for display.Can I submit as a group?
Yes. Fill out a single form with both entrees names and information.Do I have to be attending San Japan?
Costumes must be dropped off and picked up by their owners at the designated times. If the owners cannot be present for these they are responsible for getting someone who can do it for them.Do I need to bring the undergarments/accessories/etc?
Please bring any costume specific undergarments such as petticoats and corsets that alter the shape of your costume. We would love all the pieces that go along with the costume to display it to the full effect! Our mannequins have arms and heads so they are able to wear wigs/hats/gloves/etc.Do I make my own plaque?
No, the staff will contact you for the information needed but we design and print the plaques.Why do we need photos on the application?
The staff uses them as a visual aid when deciding on displays. These pictures are only seen by the staff and if chosen staff will contact you on the picture you want to use for your plaque.Is signing a waiver required?
Yes, no exceptions.
Just a few things before your next visit.
Where is the museum located?
Information will be updated closer to San Japan 2026.What are the museum hours?
Information will be updated closer to San Japan 2026.
Please note Sundays may begin to close early as exhibitors pick up costumes.Is this event ticketed?
No, the museum is free for anyone who wants to visit.Can I take pictures?
Yes please do!Can I touch costumes?
No, if you need to see any details on the costumes or ask questions please see staff for assistance.
The Museum is a passion project run by a group of volunteers, and we work hard to give everyone the best experience we can. This has led us to see a lot of growth in just a few short years. If you are a convention or business interested in our project, here's how you can help.
How can we have you at our convention?
The museum is open to presenting at other cons within Texas. Please contact us at our email ([email protected]) or through Southern Cospiltality on social media (links on home page). Please note that all display items (mannequins, plaques, stanchions, etc.) are provided by the host convention, as we do not have the space to store these items nor the means of transporting them to conventions.Can I sponsor your event?
Yes, the museum is now looking for sponsors. If you are interested please email us at [email protected]Can I make a donation?
Donations are not currently necessary so we ask that you don't feel obligated to donate anything. If you still feel like supporting us we have a link to our Ko-fi on the home page. We are grateful for all your generosity and support.I have vintage costumes, would you be interested?
Absolutely! Please contact us at our email or message Southern Cospitality through social media.
Check back here closer to the event!
Akon 2017
Early Years
San Japan 2024
San Japan 2025
Akon 2017
Early Years
San Japan 2024
San Japan 2025
The Texas Cosplay Museum is constantly growing every year! In 2025, we doubled our amount of exhibits and saw over 5,000 visitors! Thank you to our wonderful sponsors for San Japan 2026 for helping us support this growth.
If you are interested in being a sponsor, you can email us at [email protected]
