Asiantique visitors dress to impress

The latest Asiantique Market, on Sept. 28 in Annandale, drew a contingent of video game characters, along with the usual crowd of people attracted to the array of Asian food vendors.

The festival hosted a cosplay costume contest, with the top prize, $300, awarded to “Princess Zelda” from Nintendo’s Legends of Zelda series. Amanda R. appeared as Zelda in an elaborate outfit she made herself with detailed embroidery.

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Hell Diver, a character from the Helldivers video game, came in second, winning $100. The third-place winner, Princess Peach from the Mario series, took home a $50 prize.

The costumes were judged on craftsmanship, design, and presentation. The contest also included a trivia component.

A total of $175 was awarded in the kids’ division, which featured Batman, Mario, a ballerina, and an elegant lady.

The next Asiantique Market, the last one of the season, will be held Oct. 28, 5-9 p.m., at 6911 Columbia Pike.