The Raven’s Guide to JordanCon Traditions: Ribbons, Tiaras, Costumes, and Pure Chaos (the fun kind)

Hey y’all! If you’re heading to JordanCon this April, there’s a good chance you’ve already asked, “What’s up with the ribbons?” or “Why is everyone wearing tiaras?” or maybe even “Is that person in a full Trolloc costume just casually walking through the hotel lobby??”

Short answer: Yes. Welcome to JordanCon—where the traditions are half the fun. 🥰 Let’s break down a few things you should know before you pack your bags (and your glue gun).

Threads of the Pattern (Attached to Your Badge)

At JordanCon, badge ribbons are more than just colorful bits of flair—they’re part of the Pattern itself. These strips of creativity, snark, and pride become conversation starters, collectibles, and in some cases… an extreme sport.

A Little Ribbon History

Back in the early days of JordanCon, badge ribbons were used mostly to identify official roles like “Guest,” “Vendor,” or “Staff.” That was before the Pattern truly started weaving.

Around 2013, attendees decided that wasn’t nearly festive enough—and thus, the fun ribbon era began. Now, ribbons are everywhere. Some folks plan entire ribbon themes each year. Others show up with a few clever ones to trade. A few determined attendees? They’ll have a badge beard so long it brushes their knees.

Check out the full backstory in this official JordanCon blog post:
👉 Ribbons, Tiaras, and Kilts… Oh My!
👉 Badge Ribbon F.A.Q.

How to Join the Ribbon Fun

• Design Your Own: There are tons of online vendors that make custom ribbons. Funny quotes, obscure references, or just sparkly nonsense—all welcome.
• Be Polite When Trading: Some ribbons are freely given. Others may be earned through games, contests, or quests. Ask first!
• Come Prepared: A roll of double-sided tape or a clip will help keep your badge looking sharp as your ribbon stack grows.
• Read the Room (or the Ribbon): That cryptic “Ask me about Bela” ribbon? Go ahead. Ask. That’s half the fun.

There’s no “right” way to do ribbons—just bring a sense of fun and a willingness to connect with your fellow fans. Every ribbon tells a story, and yours might just become someone’s favorite.

Pro tip: If someone has a ribbon that says something like “Ask me about Mat’s dice,” go ahead and ask. We’re all here for the shenanigans.

Crowns of Cairhien, Kilts of Tarabon

(Or: Why you’ll see royalty and warriors at the hotel bar)

JordanCon has its share of fashion statements—but none more iconic than the unexpected combo of tiaras and kilts. What started as a handful of attendees leaning into a little sparkle and swagger has grown into a full-blown tradition.

👑 The Tiaras

Let’s start with the obvious: the tiaras. You’ll see them on heads of all kinds—newbies, veterans, panelists, vendors, and maybe even your roommate who swore they weren’t “a costume person.”

No one really remembers how it started (the Wheel weaves…), but the message is clear: you want to wear a tiara at JordanCon? Then wear it. No explanation needed. No rules apply. It’s about fun, flair, and feeling fabulous—whether you’re channeling a Domani queen or just need a little sparkle to top off your badge ribbons.

If you want one but don’t have one yet, no worries—you might find one at the Dealer’s Hall. Or raid the clearance bin at your local craft store and DIY it like a Maker of the Third Age.

🦵 The Kilts

Then there’s Kilt Friday. Somewhere along the Pattern, a group of JordanCon attendees decided Fridays needed more knees—and thus, the tradition of kilts was born.

Worn in honor of heritage, comfort, rebellion, or just for the vibes, kilts have become a Friday fixture. You’ll see folks pairing them with con tees, cloaks, sashes, or, yes… even tiaras. (That’s right, the truly enlightened know: you can wear both.)

There’s no signup, no rulebook, no secret society—just people showing up in kilts because it’s JordanCon and why the heck not?

If you want to dive into the origins and culture behind these beloved traditions, the JordanCon blog has you covered. Start with Ribbons, Tiaras, and Kilts… Oh My! for a fun snapshot, and then check out Traditions: What Have We Been Doing the Past 15 Years!? for a walk through the evolution of our community customs.

The Costume Contest: Wheel-y Good Cosplay

The JordanCon Costume Contest is a fan favorite—and honestly, the talent is unreal. You’ll see Wheel of Time characters, fantasy mashups, and even some hilarious deep cuts that make hardcore fans squeal.

💃 Anyone can participate! We’ve got 3 levels:

• Novice: Newbies and first-timers!
• Journeyman: You’ve won a few awards or have some experience.
• Master: You’re a cosplay wizard (or possibly an actual Aes Sedai).

No matter your level, if you love dressing up and want to show off your handiwork (or just strut your stuff), this is your time to shine. ✨

🛋 CouchCon: The “Unofficial” Official Afterparty

Once the programming ends Sunday night, a bunch of us gather for a little thing called CouchCon. It’s not on the schedule, but trust me—it’s a vibe.

We hang out, decompress, play games, talk about what we loved, and laugh until our cheeks hurt. These are the moments when strangers turn into friends and introverts mysteriously become extroverts (must be something in the ConSuite snacks).

No badge required. No expectations. Just good people, comfy vibes, and leftover snacks. 🛋🍿

🥳 Join the Chaos—Or Start Your Own

JordanCon traditions aren’t just something you watch—they’re something you join. Or invent! That random ribbon someone started in 2015? A full-blown legacy now. That first tiara? It sparked a glitter revolution.

You don’t have to do all the things. But if something makes you smile—try it. Trade a ribbon. Wear a crown. Jump into a game. Compliment someone’s cosplay. Start a dance party in the hallway (true story—it’s happened).

This is your con. Your weird little fantasy-loving family is waiting. 💜

See you at JordanCon! And if you see me? Ask me what’s on my ribbon stack—I’ve probably got a story for every single one. 😉

Want help prepping for your first JordanCon? Check out our upcoming posts on what to pack, how to meet your flock, and shopping like a savvy Seanchan in the Dealer’s Hall.