At St. Pete Comic Con, our contests and panels are more than just programming — they’re the pulse of the convention. From the high-energy excitement of cosplay contests to the creativity and insight of fan-led panels, this is where the community truly shines. Whether you’re performing on stage, leading a discussion, or cheering from the audience, every moment celebrates the artistry, passion, and imagination that make fandom come alive. Our contests and panels don’t just entertain — they connect, inspire, and showcase the best of what fans create together. We have three cosplay contests (Craftsmanship, Novice Craftsmanship, Runway) as well as a lip sync competition. Here is contest info and applications. And more info in the Contestant & Panel Host Q&A.
Star Cos – Director of Cosplay & Contests
She’s our favorite Star in the universe! 
A cosplay sensation and makeup/SFX prodigy, The Star Cos is a powerhouse of creativity and professionalism. At only 20 years old, she has already earned more than 1 million followers on TikTok (and is fast approaching 100k on Instagram), captivating fans worldwide with her incredible transformations and stunning craftsmanship.
By day, The Star Cos works as a Prosthetic Artist at Universal’s Epic Universe, where she brings to life iconic characters including Gobber from How to Train Your Dragon, Ygor from Frankenstein, the Hounds from The Island of Dr. Moreau, and the Bride of Frankenstein herself.
At Sunshine City Scare, The Star Cos oversees all cosplay and contest programming as well as guest cosplayer coordination, She infuses her energy, skill, professionalism, and heart to inspire everyone!
Our Emerging Guest Cosplayer Program celebrates talented creators who are making their mark in the cosplay world. These 10 exceptional cosplayers may not have massive followings yet, but their skills, creativity, and passion are undeniable—and this program gives them a well-deserved opportunity to shine.
At Sunshine City Scare, they serve as contest judges and co-hosts, offer free cosplay feedback and tips during their booth hours, and pose for photo ops with fans throughout the weekend. It’s a special chance for attendees to meet the rising stars of cosplay—and for these emerging guests to gain valuable experience as they take the next step in their creative journey. If you’re interested, apply today (applications deadline is April 10).
