Art Beats: Baltimore Comic-Con 2026 Features Children’s Cosplay and Family Activities

The three-day convention returns to Baltimore’s Inner Harbor from Sept. 25-27 with comic book creators, children’s cosplay events and activities for fans of all ages.

BALTIMORE — The Baltimore Comic-Con will bring generations of comic book and science-fiction fans together Sept. 25-27, 2026, at the Baltimore Convention Center in the city’s Inner Harbor.

Celebrating its 27th year, the convention will feature artists, writers and other creators whose work spans from the 1960s to the present. The event will also offer activities designed for children and families.

Young Cosplayers Take the Stage

The Baltimore Comic-Con and Hard Rock Cafe Baltimore will present the annual Children’s Cosplay Contest at 3:30 p.m. on Sunday, Sept. 27.

Open to participants ages 17 and younger, the competition gives young cosplayers an opportunity to display their creativity and meet others who share their interest in cosplay as an art form and means of cultural expression.

Contestants will be judged on their creativity, costume construction and the energy and enthusiasm they bring to portraying their chosen characters.

Competitors must have contributed to the construction of their costumes. Children ages 5 to 12 must make at least 30% of their costumes, while contestants ages 13 to 17 must make at least 50%. Store-bought, commissioned and entirely parent-made costumes are not eligible for the competition.

Children who want to wear store-bought or noncompetitive costumes may participate in the Children’s Cosplay Showcase. The showcase provides young cosplayers with an opportunity to present their costumes without being judged.

Children ages 10 and younger receive free convention admission when accompanied by an adult with paid admission. Participants older than 10 must have valid convention admission. Parents and guardians should review the complete contest requirements before registering.

Family Alley Welcomes Young Fans

The convention will also feature a special Family Alley, where children can meet creators who produce comics and stories for younger audiences.

Convention hours are 1 to 7 p.m. Friday, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Sunday.

For tickets, cosplay registration, guest announcements and additional convention information, visit BaltimoreComicCon.com.

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