Costume Competition
As part of our event, we're thrilled to hold a Palaeontology-Themed Costume Competition—a fun and family-friendly celebration of all things prehistoric! Whether you want to stomp in like a ferocious T. rex, glide in as a graceful Pteranodon, or dust off your explorer’s hat and channel your inner palaeontologist, this is your chance to get creative and show off your prehistoric style.
Who Can Enter?
Everyone! The contest is open to kids and adults. Your costume must have a palaeontology or prehistoric theme—think dinosaurs, ancient creatures, or palaeontologists themselves!
Your costume must be appropriate for a general audience of all ages (nothing 18+, R-rated, or NSFW!)
Costume Changing Room
Our Costume changing room is located in Peter Chalk and is unisex. This room is only for changing into and out of costume. For everyone's comfort and privacy, please do not use this space for changing undergarments. DinoCon UK is not responsible for loss or damage of items left unattended in the changing room.
Categories & Prizes
There are only 2 categories; Under 16s and Over 16s. Both categories have 3 tiers of prizes:
· 1st Place: Free ticket to DinoCon 2026, whole ammonite fossil*, DinoCon merch pack, certificate, and rosette.
· 2nd Place: Cut ammonite fossil*, DinoCon merch pack, certificate, and rosette.
· 3rd Place: Small cut ammonite fossil pair*, DinoCon merch pack, certificate, and rosette.
*All of the fossils are genuine, ethically sourced, and come with a certificate of authenticity.
When & Where?
The contest will take place on Saturday at 1:30pm in The Great Hall. Final judging will happen on the main stage, so make sure to sign-up ahead of time!
How to sign-up
Entering the Costume Competition is free for all DinoCon attendees. Simply stop by the DinoCon Merch table, outside the Vendor Hall, anytime from 10am-1pm** on Saturday 16th August to sign up. You will be given a short form to fill in.
(**There are limited spaces available. Sign-up will close early if all of the spaces are filled.)
If you have signed up, please arrive at The Great Hall 20 minutes before the start of the Costume Competition.
Good luck to everyone who enters!