AI-generated content, in any shape or form, is strictly disallowed in accordance with DashCon 2’s overall policies (this includes using generative AI tools in the editing process and consulting generative AI for concepts, not just AI-generated images and other content). After all, we’re here to celebrate fandom and the creativity it tends to inspire!
To see a more in-depth exploration of the rules and guidelines that apply to the DashCon 2 AMV Contest & Virtual Showcase, or to fill out the video submission form, please visit the AMV Contest page on our website!
Submissions will remain open until March 15th, 2026!
(Contained in this spoiler are a handful of graphics going over the rules, categories, and some of the awards:)
Spoiler :
2026 Challenge (Tumblr Fandoms)
As a convention centered on internet history, and with an emphasis on fandom, of course we had to make our debut theme something directly relevant to that! Past and present, from SuperWhoLock to Hazbin Hotel, it counts as long as it’s had a notable fandom presence on Tumblr at any point in history.
Drama
Serious, emotional videos and storytelling videos both fit right into this category.
Comedy
Silly, light-hearted videos and anything that's generally upbeat fits into this category.
Experimental
If it doesn't fit neatly into any of the other categories, or if it's especially strange or experimental in some other way, it belongs here.
Short
Referring to the video length rather than the style and format, Short videos include anything from 15 to 45 seconds!
The finalists of every category will be screened at the Japanese-Canadian Cultural Centre during the in-person portion of the convention, where the category winners will be announced.
Other than the obligatory 'Best of Category' awards, there are a handful of superlatives that can be won by videos in any category, and cannot be submitted to directly. Judges' Choice and Audience Choice are included in this category, as well as Period Piece, Understood the Assignment, and Creative Crossover. The winners of each category and superlative will also receive a small prize!
For those who want to participate, but don't want to compete, there's also the option of submitting to the Virtual Showcase: all submissions that comply with our guidelines will be screened during an event for virtual ticket holders (unlike many other VirtualDash panels, this screening won't be recorded). Anyone can submit videos for the Virtual Showcase, even if they're also entering the competition!
You don't need to attend DashCon 2 to enter the AMV Contest, though in the event that there are more submissions than we can reasonably include in the contest's panel slot, submissions from convention attendees may be prioritized. All entries will still be played during the Virtual Showcase, since there are no time constraints for the virtual event.