Photos by: Kat Astorphe , Leo Nocedo
The St. Petersburg Coliseum recently transformed into a haven for anime aficionados, gaming enthusiasts, and cosplay connoisseurs during the spellbinding weekend of December 2-3. Holiday Cosplay Tampa Bay 2023 emerged as a festive fusion of creativity, imagination, and holiday cheer, offering an unparalleled experience for attendees who sought a unique blend of holiday spirit and geeky delights.
1. Gaming Extravaganza: Gaming enthusiasts were treated to an extraordinary array of free-to-play games catering to every taste. From the high-octane battles of “Borderlands 3” to the nostalgic journey of “Super Mario Bros Wonder,” the gaming zone knew no boundaries. The inclusion of “Smite” added an extra layer of excitement, ensuring there was a game for every player.
2. Cosplay Spectacle: The heart of the convention belonged to the art of cosplay. Renowned cosplayers such as The Star Cos, Seams Come True, Holtsclaw Cosplay. Captivating the audience with their transformative talents. Two cosplay contests, “Craftsmanship” and “Runway,” provided a platform for participants to showcase their skills, offering a dazzling display of creativity and character portrayal.
3. Makeup and SFX Marvels: Holiday Cosplay Tampa Bay 2023 elevated the spotlight on makeup and special effects (SFX) artists, marking a historic moment in Florida convention history. The Makeup/SFX Contest, featuring a mesmerizing array of talent, offered a chance to witness jaw-dropping transformations. Pro body painter Nicole Hays, known for her appearances on ‘Skin Wars,’ added a touch of international flair with captivating demonstrations.
4. Santa Claus Joins the Geeky Festivities: Adding a sprinkle of holiday magic, Santa Claus himself made a grand appearance, spreading cheer and posing for free photos with attendees. Whether attendees had been naughty or nice, Santa embraced the opportunity to make holiday wishes come true. The result? Magical memories captured against the backdrop of nerdy joy.
5. Unforgettable Connections: Holiday Cosplay Tampa Bay 2023 wasn’t just an event; it was a community. Attendees, whether seasoned cosplayers or first-timers, found common ground in their shared passions. The convention provided a space for like-minded individuals to connect, share experiences, and revel in the joy of being part of something extraordinary.
In the wake of this unforgettable weekend, Holiday Cosplay Tampa Bay 2023 has undoubtedly left an indelible mark on the hearts of attendees. The perfect amalgamation of holiday festivities and geeky wonders, this event has solidified its place as an annual must-attend celebration for those who seek a holiday experience like no other. Until next year, when the magic will undoubtedly unfold once again.
For Individual photos click here.
NocedoPhoto Media Group
NocedoPhoto Media Group is an innovative and creative consortium that unites photographers, writers, cosplayers, event promoters, vendors, costume and prop makers, and other creatives under one roof to use their collective skills to maximize their distribution and presence on digital media platforms. Their goal is to create a well-rounded and successful network for all involved.
