Anime Matsuri: costume, prop and weapon rules

Last checked against the con's own rules on 2026-10-21.

A quick-reference guide to Anime Matsuri's costume, prop, and weapon rules for first-time attendees planning their cosplay build.

Anime Matsuri's policies cover what props and weapons you can bring onto convention centre grounds, how they must be prepared, and a few costume basics. The convention's own rules page at animematsuri.com/event-policies/ is the authority on all of this, and the rules can change from year to year, so check that page before you pack your costume. On the props side, anything that could reasonably be used as a weapon must be peacebonded before you carry it around the event. Swords, axes, spears, pikes, staves, and similar items should be made from wood, PVC, foam, plastic, cardboard, or paper. Oversized bags and large cosplay props are not permitted in the Main Events audience area. Weapons Check staff have the final say on whether something is too dangerous to allow, and if you buy a weapon in the dealers room you must have it wrapped and take it out of the convention immediately. The convention bans all metal weapons on convention centre grounds without exception, and no functioning projectile weapon of any kind is allowed, including airsoft guns, Nerf blasters, bows and arrows, and pellet guns. Airsoft and Nerf props may be permitted only if the tip is clearly orange and the item has been made permanently incapable of firing, meaning the barrel is filled solid, the firing mechanism is removed, and the trigger is removed. Bows must be unstrung. Replica pistols must stay in a holster at all times and replica rifles must be slung; paddles of all kinds are banned. You must never brandish a prop weapon or point any replica at another person, and staff must be able to tell from ten feet away that a weapon is not real. The rules page does not go into detail about makeup or body paint beyond requiring that all cosplayers follow state and local decency laws. Shoes are required at all times, so if your character goes barefoot you will need to find a footwear solution, and anyone in a bulky costume is asked to take extra care in crowded areas. Safety is worth keeping in mind during the build as well as at the event itself. If your prop involves heat tools, resins, solvents, or bladed materials during construction, work in a well-ventilated space, wear appropriate protective gear such as gloves and eye protection, and have a responsible adult present if you are a younger maker. At the convention, never swing or wave a prop in a way that could startle or endanger other attendees, and follow any additional guidance from convention security on the day.

Full details at Anime Matsuri →