Cosplay contest timing is listed on the panel schedule for the specific event, so check that schedule for the exact time slot rather than assuming it repeats at the same time every year. The contest itself has been a recurring feature of Camp programming.
Sign-up happens in person at the contest itself — there’s no advance registration required. Just show up ready to participate when it’s time.
Judging criteria come down to whoever is serving as judge for that specific contest, rather than a fixed, published rubric. Because the panel of judges can change from event to event, the exact criteria they weigh most can vary too.
Yes, there are prizes for cosplay contest winners, and the specific prizes are announced right before the contest begins rather than published in advance. Check in at the contest itself to find out what’s on offer that year.
In 2026, this was the “TWDU Veterans Panel,” featuring Greg Nicotero (director, producer, and SFX) and Scott M. Gimple (Chief Content Officer for the Walking Dead franchise) — a behind-the-scenes look from two of the people who’ve shaped the show from the production side. It hasn’t been confirmed yet whether this panel returns for a future… Read More »Is there a “veterans” panel featuring behind-the-scenes crew?
Past Camps have included experiences like hand-prints with Chandler Riggs (recreating the Carl and Judith deck scene), cobbler with Cooper Andrews, and “Meals with Actors” sessions where attendees watch episodes alongside guests. These kinds of intimate, activity-based experiences are part of what sets The Camp’s special events apart from a standard convention meet-and-greet.
There’s always a chance a themed dinner or meal-with-an-actor experience shows up on a future schedule, since it’s been part of past special events, but nothing specific is confirmed yet. Keep an eye on the special events announcements as the event approaches.
Special event tickets go out in two waves: they’re emailed first to Inclusive VIP ticket holders, then made available to General Admission attendees 24 hours later via a social media post. That head start is one of the built-in perks of an iVIP ticket, since the most popular special events can sell out fast.
A private wine-tasting experience with Peter Facinelli was held at both Scream City Con (2025) and The Camp 2026, so this wasn’t a one-off exclusive to a single event. Nothing similar has been confirmed yet for a future Camp, but there’s precedent for it happening again.
Tickets to the Friday welcome party are included automatically with VIP admission, so Inclusive VIP guests don’t need to purchase anything separately for it. General Admission attendees aren’t left out, though — they can purchase a ticket to attend as an add-on.
