Flags?

[Ray7979]

I know props can’t be approved before the con and the “if you hit someone with it, would it break or would they break” unwritten rule. But would a flag on a pole or stick be allowed? Has anyone here brought one? I know there was a Connor from assassin’s creed 3 with an American flag on a pole in chess in 2013 or 2014.

[Thrillho]

(Not AB Staff Affiliated)

My advice is to go smaller with the pole and flag size if you can. I know I've seen some flags before, but I can only remember ones that were, say, attached to someone's backpack (like the mail carrier from Legend of Zelda) and didn't stick up too high to be a burden when walking through doorways.

[ksmurf]

Unfortunately, as you succinctly put it: we cannot pre-approve props as weapon checks are handled by Hynes Security.

That said, there is no policy against flags on poles.

Your chances with a wooden pole are better than with a metal pole. The lighter you can make the wood and the prop, the more likely your prop will be approved - but no guarantees.

Also, many areas at Anime Boston are crowded and a large flag on a pole may make it difficult to maneuver. You want to consider a smaller flag like Thrillho suggested.

[Nenie]

I used a flag and pole for cosplay in AB 2016. But I did a make shift flag pole out of an extending broomstick from Walmart and attached mounting rings to it. Then clipped the actual flag to the mounting rings. What was great about the broomstick was it was collapsible so I could retract it and tuck it away at times. Like when I'm sitting at at panel or eating at a restaurant.

[snapelicious]

(Speaking as a cosplayer and not in staff capacity)

One other thing to keep in mind, if you're using an actual national flag, try to keep flag etiquette in mind. DO keep your flag aloft or neatly folded when not in use. DON'T let it drag on the ground where it might be stepped on.

[Ray7979]

Thanks everyone, I’ll look into getting a retracting broom handle. The flag is actually one I got at the con last year. I’m going as Simon from Gurren Lagann and the flag is from the show, not an actual country. It just seemed fitting to bring it if I could.