In 1974, Comic-Con added a costume contest to its events, and it's been a part of the convention ever since. Not a dance or party, it's a cosplay stage event with awards, prizes, and more. Doors open for audience seating 30 minutes early at 8:00. The ballroom holds 4,000, but for those worried about getting a seat, free tickets are given out at noon on Saturday near Ballroom 20 and also at the Masquerade Desk after 3:00. A ticket guarantees a seat but is not required, and those without tickets are welcome after the ticketed line has gone in. Overflow viewing on large screens is available in the Sails Pavilion and Ballroom 6A. Emcees will once again be five-time Hugo Award-winning writers and artists Phil Foglio and Kaja Foglio, with intermission entertainment from The Saber Guild Star Wars performance group and The Corps Dance Crew.
