The first annual DAM-Con was a resounding success, bringing together fandoms, creativity, and an electric atmosphere at Woodcrest University. The energy in the venue was palpable as cosplayers, pop culture enthusiasts, and fans of all things geeky gathered to celebrate their shared passions.
As the night progressed, the excitement only grew. Kaleb Silvercloud assisted Lex down from her perch, steadying her as they moved towards the dance floor. Meanwhile, Peter Winchester, though having a blast, couldn’t help but feel a little lonely as the only Spider-Man in this universe—Miles and Gwen would have loved it here.
Music pulsed through the venue, setting the perfect tone for an evening of camaraderie. Laughter and cheers filled the room as Rio Dela Cruz took to the stage to announce the much-anticipated People’s Choice Awards for Best Cosplay.
With a dramatic drumroll, Rio revealed the winner of the Men’s Category: Peter Winchester as Spider-Man! A roar of applause erupted as Peter, momentarily caught off guard, leaped up in true Spidey fashion, firing a web to claim his prize. The audience applauded when they announced Roro De La Rosa as the winner of the Women’s Category for her impressive Morticia Addams cosplay. Overjoyed, she made her way to the stage, careful not to trip over her velvet dress, before graciously accepting her trophy.
But the awards didn’t end with the People’s Choice. The Judges’ Choice Awards recognized more incredible talent, with Emil as Iron Patriot and Kuro as Sasuke Uchiha winning in the Men’s Category, Roxie as Baroness from G.I. Joe, and Lynn as Ciri from The Witcher 3 taking home the awards in the Women’s Category. The Best Couple Cosplay award went to Melina and Charelle for their striking portrayal of Poison Ivy and Harley Quinn.
The night buzzed with celebration, laughter echoed through the air, and the community came together joyfully. Lex and Kaleb shared a quiet moment amidst the excitement, teasing, and admiring of each other’s costumes. At the same time, Lizzy Winchester enthusiastically congratulated all the winners. Still half-asleep from the enthusiasm, Marco Leone took a moment to process the familial connections around him.
Rio Dela Cruz addressed the crowd with heartfelt appreciation as the awards concluded: “I gotta say, we had a hard time with these Judge’s Choice awards because all of you truly made such incredible and creative looks. I hope you know I appreciate it big time, regardless! Thanks for coming to the cosplay contest and helping make our first DAM-Con a resounding success! See you at the movies!”
With that, the crowd cheered once more, celebrating the winners and the entire DAM-Con experience. The night concluded with a screening of Deadpool & Wolverine at the Woodcrest Theater, ensuring that the festivities continued into the late hours.
For a first-time event, DAM-Con left an indelible mark on the Woodcrest community, setting the stage for a more significant celebration next year. Until then, the memories of capes, costumes, and camaraderie will live on.
