MADISON – The sixth annual Teen Masquerade Ball at the Huntsville-Madison County Public Library will follow a ‘cosplay’ theme.

With ‘cosplay,’ or costume play, participants wear outfits, sometimes quite complicated, that depict a character or idea.

“This year, we’re celebrating Cosplay and the many ‘fandoms’ (fanatic kingdoms) that come with it — geek culture; superheroes; TV, movie and gaming characters; anime; and much more,” library youth services coordinator Mandy Pinyan said.

The event will be held at the library’s main branch in downtown Huntsville, 915 Monroe St. on Oct. 25 from 8 p.m. to midnight. The party will be set up on the first floor’s auditorium and atrium.

The Teen Masquerade Ball “is the only system-wide teen event that encompasses everyone in Madison County,” Pinyan said. “It’s a great way to show off Cosplay, meet others and win great prizes. Plus, it’s a safe Halloween season hangout for teens.”

Activities at the ball will include dancing, gaming, costume contests and door prizes. “Throughout the evening, we’ll provide sealed sodas and water, as well as sweet and savory treats that are more in line with the refined tastes of teenagers,” Pinyan said with a laugh.

The target audience is “‘tweens’ and teens, though younger ages might find earlier hours of the party better suited to their curfews. Anyone in sixth through twelfth grades can attend,” Pinyan said.

“Adults will want to attend first annual Rocket City Nerd Con on Oct. 24-25 at the main branch of the library,” Pinyan said.

To-date, sponsors are WZYP-104.3, Sullivan Productions and Haven Comics.

Tickets are $10 in advance or $15 at the event. Tickets are available online now at hmcpl.org. Event proceeds will perpetuate future masquerade balls.

And what costume/character has Pinyan chosen? “I’m working on one, but, if I can’t get it done, I have a backup,” she said.