Costume Contests Make Creative Octobers

Costume contests at horse and livestock shows are a fun and creative way to showcase both the exhibitor’s and the animal’s personality. The dress-up classes offer a chance to step away from show stress and traditional show attire and dive into something imaginative. They bring an element of lightheartedness, allowing participants to embrace their creativity and sense of humor in a more relaxed environment.

The themes for costume contests vary widely, with participants drawing inspiration from a range of sources like historical figures, popular movie characters, Disney fairy tales, or funny and seasonal ideas. While some costumes become annual favorites (for example, the classic horse and rider dressed as a “for sale” sign), there are always new and original ideas to keep things fresh. I once saw a unique costume where the horse was draped with t-shirts, and the rider had folded into a Transformer like cardboard washing machine. Sadly, I didn’t capture that one on camera, but it’s a perfect example of the imagination present in these contests.

As a photographer, I have the chance to observe the judges closely as they evaluate the costumes. Several criteria come into play during judging. While creativity and originality are key, the execution of the costume is equally important. The effort put into a costume, along with the level of detail, can make a big difference. One year, I saw a heifer covered in individual cotton balls, with each one carefully packed from top to bottom. A well-executed pun or clever reference can be perfect, like creating a heifer art project called a “moo-saic”.

A few tips for contestants: Start brainstorming early and take inspiration from past contests or show series. Seeing what others have done can spark ideas for your own creation. Also, be sure to try the full costume on at home before the show. Not only does this ensure a good fit, but it allows you to see how your animal reacts to their new outfit and see if they’ll keep it on. Give yourself plenty of time to get ready, so you’re not rushed or frazzled before stepping into the ring. And when in the ring, make sure to leave enough space between you and the competitor ahead of you for everyone's safety and comfort.

From the audience member to the costume designer to the exhibitor dressed up, costume contests are meant to be fun for all involved. As a livestock and horse photographer, I particularly enjoy the creativity that these events bring, adding flavor and excitement to some of my favorite October shows. Check out just a few of the memorable Halloween costumes I’ve captured over the years!