Logan cosplayers who normally travel elsewhere to find their community will get an event on their doorstep when Cosplay Market brings its biggest market yet to Eagleby.
The volunteer-run charity will hold its first Logan event at Distillery Road Market on Sunday 16 August after outgrowing the community halls used for earlier Brisbane markets.
Founder Claudia Phoenix said Eagleby offered the space the event needed while bringing it closer to cosplayers south of Brisbane.
“Distillery Road Market was a perfect option for us with its large space, parking, and food on site,” she said.
“Its location south of Brisbane also means that it’s more accessible to our Gold Coast-based community members.
“Logan has a wonderful creative community and we’re so excited to be a part of it.”
Lifelong Logan resident and cosplayer Tasharni said events close to home were rare.
“As a cosplayer and creative, it’s so rare that we get events like this close to home, that we can share our love with our local community, and get to meet like-minded crafters who may just be our neighbours,” she said.
Cosplay Market began at New Farm in November 2023 with 17 stalls and has since expanded into Perth and Sydney.
Its Eagleby event is expected to feature more than 70 artist and second-hand stalls, workshops, panels, competitions and activities.
Ms Phoenix said the market was created partly in response to waste within cosplay.
“Like fashion, overconsumption has become a major issue in cosplay,” she said.
“People chasing trends with big purchases of low-quality items that won’t last means that a lot of costumes can end up in the landfill.”
She said selling costumes and materials in person could also make the hobby more affordable.
“Sellers get back some money, and buyers can get a good deal which makes it more financially accessible.”
Grace, a Logan cosplayer and stallholder, said the market gave costumes “a second home”.
“The event highlights just how important sustainability and recycling is in this community,” she said.
“It’s also an awesome opportunity to connect with other cosplayers and give artists a platform to shine.”
The event will also raise money for Brisbane homelessness service 3rd Space through 20 per cent of ticket sales and a charity raffle.
Ms Phoenix said the service brought community, safety and a place to exist in a supportive environment without judgement.
Sarina, from Yarrabilba, said cosplay had given her skills and lifelong friendships.
“Events like this are so important for locals to have a safe supportive space to try something new,” she said.
“You’ll find you’re part of a bigger community than you thought possible.”
Cosplay Market Brisbane runs from 10am-4pm at 124 Distillery Road, Eagleby. Tickets are $20 online or $25 on the day, with children under 12 free.
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