Contests
The families are watching, the crowd is waiting, and the stage is ready for anyone brave enough to step forward.
The court demands entertainment, creativity and questionable decisions.
This year’s contests include Jester’s Got Talent, the Costume Making Contest and the Creature Making Contest. Whether you want to perform, show off your handmade outfit, or bring a strange little beastie into the Gathering, this is your chance to earn glory, prizes and tokens for your family.
Taking part is optional. Watching the chaos unfold is also acceptable.
Costume Making Contest
Show off your handmade fantasy costume
Sign-up 12pm–1pm | Winners at 4pm
Creature Making Contest
Bring your handmade familiar
Sign-up 12pm–1pm | Winners at 4pm
Jester’s Got Talent
Advance application required
Perform for the court in the Guild Hall. 1:15pm
Costume Making Contest
Bring your finest handmade fantasy creation to the Gathering.
Sign-up: 12pm–1pm
Location: The Guild Hall, Jacquard Suite
Winner Announcement: 4pm on the Main Stage
Requirement: 70% handmade, altered or customised
For handmade fantasy outfits, characters, armour, robes, masks, accessories and wearable creations.
No need to be a professional maker. This contest is about creativity, effort and imagination.
To enter, visit the Contest Desk during sign-up.
Win prizes and points for your family.
Creature Making Contest
Bring your beastie, familiar, puppet or questionable little creation before the court.
Sign-up: 12pm–1pm
Location: The Guild Hall, Jacquard Suite
Winner Announcement: 4pm on the Main Stage
Requirement: 70% handmade, altered or customised
For handmade fantasy creatures, puppets, familiars, monster props, dolls, shoulder companions and strange things that probably should not be left unattended.
To enter, visit the Contest Desk during sign-up.
Win prizes and points for your family.
Jester's Got Talent
The court demands entertainment… and unfortunately, that means you.
Time: 1:15pm
Location: The Guild Hall
Sign-up: Apply in advance
Check-in: 12pm–1pm
Act length: Max 3 minutes
What acts can include:
Singing, comedy, storytelling, poetry, music, dance, magic, character performance, dramatic readings or strange talents.
Family Tokens:
Every approved performer earns tokens.
Extra tokens awarded for Best Overall Act, Most Chaotic Performance and Audience Favourite.
Important Rules:
No fire, weapons, mess, dangerous stunts, hate speech or anything that could damage the venue.
A Few Final Notes
You can enter more than one contest if timings allow.
All entries should be suitable for the venue and safe around other visitors. Props may be checked on arrival.
Winners will earn prizes, bragging rights and tokens for their family in the battle for the Thorned Crown.