Costume Rules & Guidelines
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All attendees in costume, whether or not they are participating in the
Cosplay Competition, must abide by the following rules:
- No weapon props that look realistic, particularly guns and metallic swords and knives, are allowed. Real weapons are absolutely prohibited; per the 2005-2006 BGSU Student Handbook, p. 14, "The University prohibits weapons of any kind on campus." In addition, on p. 47, it is stated that "[e]xplosives, firearms (actual, or novelties/toys reasonably resembling actual firearms), fireworks, firecrackers and similar devices, and weapons of any kind create a potential safety hazard and, therefore, the use or posession of these items is prohibited in University residences. Weapons include, but are not limited to, knives with blades over three inches, guns, pellet guns, paint guns, tazers, bows and arrows, machetes, Ninja stars, nunchucks, grenades and swords." (The Student Handbook may be viewed here.)
- Shoes or other similar footwear and a shirt or other garment that covers the chest be worn at all times. Bare chests and bare feet are not allowed.
- Animarathon and University staff members have final say on what is allowed.
- The Animarathon and University staff are the authorities on acceptable behavior. Attendees who are disruptive may be asked to leave an event or the convention at any staff member's discretion. Animarathon will have BGSU Security staffing the event this year, ensuring these rules and guidelines are followed.
If you have any problems or questions regarding the rules, please contact the current ANO officers. Their emails may be found on the contact page.