Halloween is a year-round festivity for cosplay and costume enthusiasts. Here’s where to build (and debut) your newest fit with Toronto’s best shops and events.
Toronto hosts a dazzling array of fashion subcultures, with shops and vendors catering to devoted cosplay and costume enthusiasts. Like to dress up? Read on for our recommendations below on where to shop, plus key events where you can strut your stuff in one of the best nightlife cities.
Where to shop for cosplay
Enthusiasts know that the perfect cosplay can take months to assemble. Save yourself some time and hit up these top Toronto shops.
If you’re after cosplay inspired by hit anime series like Spy X Family, Jujutsu Kaisen, Demon Slayer and Jojo’s Bizarre Adventure, look no further than L & M. With tons of outfits, style-able and heat-resistant wigs, plus accessories like bags and wands, this is your one-stop-shop for cosplay wardrobe building fun.
If you’re on the hunt for niche pieces, Markham’s Pacific Mall might have what you seek with shops and storefronts full of imported items, outfits and anime merch.
Anyone who cosplays will tell you that nailing the character’s hair is half the battle. A quality wig can be styled and cut to perfectly embody the quirks of your fave character’s hair—and for that quality, you can count on Wigs R Us. Though the shop isn’t an official cosplay specialist, their wigs are highly regarded by enthusiasts for their craftsmanship and beauty.
For specialized cosplay wigs, check out Cactus Mafia for their wide stock of colourful wigs from your favourite anime and manga series.
Where to find epic costumes
Costumes aren’t just for Halloween anymore, and whether you’re shopping for yourself, your kid or your dog, Candy’s Costume Shop has something to offer with a wealth of ensembles, accessories, makeup, shoes, wigs, props and gifts to make any child (or adult!) squeal. From classic superheroes to period piece costumes, Candy’s has it all.
If you’re going all out for Halloween or planning a masquerade party complete with festive decor, It’s My Party has everything you need. Push the boundaries of costume creativity with a seemingly endless roster of contact lenses, wigs, professional and SFX makeup, accessories and more at your disposal.
Enjoy endless options without sacrificing prime closet (or luggage) real estate by renting a killer costume from WoodBridge Costumes. Their assortment includes characters from popular TV shows and movies, video games, storybooks, comics and even mascots.
Where to show off your cosplay or costume finds
Halloween Bash Toronto
October 26, 2024 – Head to the Rec Room to dance to DJ beats, game, sip spooky Halloween cocktails and maybe even win the $500 grand prize in the best costume contest.
Death Drop Cocktail Hour
October 27, 2024 – Get ready for a spooktacular show at this Halloween drag event, which will feature a runway, costume contest and thrilling performances at the Twist Gallery on hip Queen West.
House of Horrors Costume Halloween Bash
October 31, 2024 – Craving more than just a costume party? Dance the night away to hip hop, reggae and Afrobeats at this DJ-fueled dance party at Bodega on King.
Halloween on Church
October 31, 2024 – Get wicked at Toronto’s queer village. Church Street turns into an over-the-top block party each Halloween, with costumes, food, drink, drag and entertainment. Local shops, cafes and bars to stay open late during Canada’s largest Halloween party. Halloween on Church is for the party animals, rainbow folk and allies.
Sweet Dreamin’ Cafe & Oishii Sweets
Sweets, tea, cosplay and maids! Inspired by the maid-cafes in Tokyo’s otaku capital, Akihabara, Sweet Dreamin’ Cafe and Oishii Sweets provide kawaii lunch, brunch or high tea experiences.
Noirtaku
Classic anime screenings, good vibes, cosplay and an intersectional celebration of anime and Black culture: is anything more wonderfully Toronto? Noirtaku promises good vibes, quenching drinks and culinary delights. Check online for future dates.
