DAARIN-KON

• No functioning prop, replica, or toy capable of firing a projectile, explosive cap, or blank cartridge will be allowed unless the action or mechanism is disabled.
• Airsoft, Nerf, and Paintball weapons must be disabled — no air puffs or discharge on testing.
• Tampering with any toy or replica weapon to restore or appear to restore functionality is grounds for immediate removal.
• It is ILLEGAL to black out or remove the blaze orange tip from any toy or replica weapon.
• Once approved, prop firearms must remain holstered, slung, or stowed unless posing for pictures or in cosplay events.
• Under NO circumstances may any prop, toy, or replica firearm be pointed at attendees or DAARIN-KON staff. Violators are subject to charges of "Disorderly Conduct" under TPC 42.01(8).

• No open carry of a handgun or long gun is permitted while in cosplay.
• Any firearm carried must be holstered, whether concealed or not.
• Realistic prop handguns must be cleared and tagged at the nearest weapons check station.
• It is the firearm holder's responsibility to follow all laws and obey all lawful postings — surrounding restaurants and businesses may have additional restrictions.
• Approval at another event does not mean approval here. We will check regardless.

• Metallic, ceramic, or rigid shuriken, throwing blades, chain whips, etc. may only be used if affixed to the costume so they cannot be readily removed.
• No exposed points or edges allowed if any chance of incidental contact exists.
• Foam rubber or plastic replicas may be carried without affixing to the costume.
• "Live Steel" (swords, daggers, battle axes, knives) used as part of a costume must be sheathed AND peace-tied.
• Removal from the sheath is dangerous and will cause removal from the event and/or charges under the Texas Penal Code.
• ALL realistic or "live steel" weapons must be inspected at a weapons check station and have a "safe" tag affixed.
• No metal spears or halberds in the event space — permitted in authorized posing areas during official posing sessions only.
• Steel and replica weapons purchased at the event must remain packaged until brought to a weapons check station.

⛔ Actual blunt force weapons (nightsticks, maces, nunchaku, tomahawks, battle axes, etc.) are ILLEGAL and will NOT be allowed under any circumstances.

Prop, foam, practice, and lightweight replicas are allowed provided:

• They remain sheathed, belted, or stowed when moving through any event space.
• Any posing or cosplay participation is conducted safely and courteously.
• Weapons purchased at the event must remain packaged and be transported to your vehicle without delay.

Weapons check stations will be located throughout the event. Ask any staff member for the nearest one.

MANDATORY check items include:

• Realistic or formerly functioning prop, replica, or toy firearms
• Metal swords, bladed, or rigid (heavy) weapons
• Bows and (nonfunctioning) crossbows
• Any replica, practice, or foam blunt force weapons (bats, nightsticks, nunchaku, mace, chain whip, etc.)

Items NOT requiring mandatory checks:

• Walking and mage staffs, shepherd crooks, or canes
• Obviously fantasy-based, inert, or harmless props and weapons
• Training and practice firearms (solid polymer and/or colored models)
• Sports equipment carried as part of a cosplay

Any prop or weapon may be subjected to weapons check at the discretion of staff or law enforcement.

• Coverage: Cosplay must cover what universally acceptable swimwear (bikini or trunks) would cover. Open/exposed backs are permitted.
• Dance Belts & Underwear: Please cover your bits and their contours. Dance belts, underwear, and nude body suits are highly recommended for revealing costumes.
• Sharp Edges: No part of your cosplay should be able to cause injury to someone who accidentally runs into you. Cap, tape, or dull all sharp edges and points.
• Oversized Cosplay: Exceptionally large costumes (wings, pieces beyond arm's reach, impaired vision) must have at least one handler to assist navigation.
• Body Paint & Glitter: Any glitter or glitter spray must be sealed to prevent transfer or shedding.
• Bondage: No accessories that attach two or more people together (handcuffs, leashes, ropes) are permitted.
• Hate Symbols: Any signs or symbols characterized as hate symbols or signs of discrimination are strictly prohibited.
• Official Uniforms: Cosplay that intentionally impersonates local law enforcement, safety personnel, venue staff, or DAARIN-KON staff is strictly prohibited.
• Shoes: The soles of your feet must be protected by shoes or adhesive foot coverings at all times.
• Wheels: Skateboards, roller skates, bikes, and unicycles are allowed outdoors but not inside buildings or crowded areas.

• When posing for a photo, you must move out of the flow of foot traffic. Find an open area or position yourself against a wall.
• Blocking hallways or walkways violates fire safety regulations.
• If posing with props in the open, ensure there is ample room to safely execute the pose.

DAARIN-KON reserves the right to refuse or restrict any cosplay or costume for any reason. We may ask you at any time to change out of or put away parts of your costume. Failure to comply may result in removal from the event.