Who We Are
Aurora Cosplay Tournament is an international cosplay championship founded in Tracon and brought to life by a team of experienced cosplay enthusiasts, competitors, judges, and organizers. Aurora is the result of that shared expertise and ambition: a project created by cosplayers, for cosplayers.
Aurora Cosplay Tournament takes place at Tampere Hall, the largest congress and concert center in the Nordics. Its grand auditorium, professional lighting and sound design, and spacious technical setup creates a spectacular arena worthy of international finalists.
Beyond the spotlight, the experience continues backstage. Competitors are welcomed into well-equipped dressing and preparation areas designed for comfort, focus, and flow. A dedicated team of cosplay volunteers supports participants throughout the event - from rehearsals to curtain call - ensuring that every detail runs smoothly. And on stage, an exceptional stage crew and technical team bring each performance to life with precision and care.
Photos: Erkko, Vikiro, Nyymix, Vikiro
Our Mission
Our mission is to unite the Baltic Sea region’s cosplay communities and provide an international-level stage for selected country representatives to show their art. We aim to strengthen cooperation between events, organizers, and cosplayers while elevating cosplay as both craftsmanship and performance art.
Our Vision
Our vision is to inspire cosplayers to grow and reach new levels in their craft and stage performances. We want to create a competition that supports learning, constructive feedback, and artistic development, while building an international community where cosplay is celebrated together. Not to mention, we wish to create spectacular show for the audience both live and via livestream.
Our Promise
We promise to uphold fair, transparent, and professional judging standards and to deliver a high-quality stage experience worthy of international finalists. We respect artistic ambition, diversity, and creativity at every level, and we prioritize cooperation, open communication, and mutual respect in everything we do from backstage coordination to final scoring.
Photos: Nyymix, Vikiro, Emilmeemu
Our History
The story of ACT begins with Tracon, one of Finland’s most beloved pop culture conventions. Founded in 2005 as a non-profit, volunteer-driven event in Tampere, Tracon - short for Tampere’s Anime and Roleplay Convention - has grown into a vibrant celebration of Japanese pop culture, tabletop and live role-playing games, and creative fandom.
Every September, thousands gather for panels, workshops, concerts, competitions, a bustling sales hall, art alley, and flea market. Tracon is always a weekend defined by imagination and community.
Cosplay has always been at the heart of Tracon. Over the years, its competitions have evolved from in-house showcases to internationally recognized qualifiers, including pathways to events such as the World Cosplay Summit and Nordic Cosplay Championship and now: Aurora Cosplay Tournament itself.
Tracon’s cultural impact has been formally recognized with the Tampere “Year’s Cultural Achievement” award but perhaps its greatest achievement is the community it has nurtured for over two decades. Tracon is a place where friendships are formed, skills are sharpened, and creativity thrives.
Aurora Cosplay Tournament builds upon this legacy. It carries forward Tracon’s spirit of collaboration and community while expanding its reach across the Baltic Sea region - transforming a long-standing tradition of excellence into a new international stage where champions rise beneath the Northern lights.
Photos: Vikiro, Nyymix, Nyymix, Juce
Step Into the Spotlight
Curious to see what ACT looks like in action?
We invite you to explore Tracon’s photo galleries and relive the craftsmanship, performances, and unforgettable stage moments of previous competitions. You can also watch the full competition stream from last year to experience the atmosphere and finalist performances exactly as they happened.