Last Updated: Monday 17th January 2022
This is the downthetubes “rolling list” of major British and Irish comic events, intended as a quick guide to “What’s On”. Follow the links to event web sites for fuller details.
Information is very welcome!
Thank you to everyone who has supplied information and apologies if I haven’t added your event yet. Please do also check out our Events News and Exhibition News news streams
As ever, information about events is welcome: here’s how to contact us. If you don’t see your date added to this list, please re-send the information as it’s entirely possible, given the huge amount of email received, that we’ve missed it first time around – sorry!
Where event web sites have not been updated in months, we are now removing what appear to be ”dead” events from the ”dates not scheduled” sections of this page.
Also, if you’re going to send events information, check the links in your mail actually work… I’ve had more than one organiser who’s sent me information with dead web links in the past.
Please do not assume we will see a convention announcement on Facebook, Twitter or other social media.
Where no date is listed, we have where possible based an event’s dates within the usual month they take place each year.
• If you’re looking for hotel accommodation near your comics event, why not give Booking.com a try? (affiliate link)
COVID restrictions remain
While the COVID-19 pandemic is still not over, the good news is that 2022 is beginning to look much more positive. Dates have been firmed up for many gatherings – although it appears some long-standing events may not return.
Most organisations running events are emphasising they will proceed only subject to restrictions and will be enforcing any social distancing measures if they are still in place. It is highly possible that mask wearing, for example, may be requested in indoor areas, and it is still in force in some parts of the UK.
Some larger events are also requesting proof of full course of vaccination, sometimes in response to the requirements of the venue’s management; proof of negative COVID test within the last 48 hours (Lateral flow test is accepted); and proof of natural immunity shown by a positive PCR test result for COVID-19, lasting for 180 days after the date of the positive test and following completion of the self-isolation period.
For more information on national guidelines, please visit the government website.
To find out how to get a free lateral flow test or find the locations of testing sites, please visit NHS website.
Why are events still being impacted by COVID-19?
Most major events plan ahead and commit to their dates, because of upfront organisational costs, as much as eight to six months in advance – for example, paying for international flights and making group accommodation bookings for planned guests.
The UK NHS has a page here with details of latest information on the coronavirus, COVID-19, and the UK government’s response to the emergency is here, with links to other information | For worldwide information on COVID-19 check the World Health Organisation Page
2022
Exhibitions
The Cartoon Museum – London
63 Wells Street, Fitzrovia, London, W1A 3AE Tel: 0207 580 8155 | Web: www.cartoonmuseum.org
BLACK: The Story of Tobias Taitt
Runs until 15th January 2022
The Cartoon Museum unveils a special exhibition to celebrate Black History Month, exploring the story and world of BLACK – an unflinching but uplifting graphic memoir by Tobias Taitt and Anthony Smith.
Dredd @ 45
Thursday 20th January until 4th April 2022
The Cartoon Museum, 63 Wells Street, Fitzrovia, London, W1A 3AE | For more information visit cartoonmuseum.org / Twitter | Facebook | Instagram | YouTube | Tel: 020 7580 8155
2022 sees the celebration of 45 years of Judge Dredd, one of the world’s most recognisable comic book characters, and 2000 AD – the ‘galaxy’s greatest comic’.
Created by writer John Wagner and artist Carlos Ezquerra, Judge Dredd is the longest-running 2000 AD character, first appearing in its second issue in 1977. Over those 45 years, Dredd has been reinterpreted by countless artists, keeping the same look while artistic style and technologies have changed and improved alongside him. In 2022, many of the tools that artists use would have been considered ‘sci-fi tech’ by the readers of Dredd in 1977!
From the physical, cut-and-stick techniques utilized in the 1970s, to the crisp lines of the 1980s and the acetate overlays and detailed inking of the 1990s, to the introduction of digital techniques in the 2000s, Judge Dredd has stood steadfast as the world of comic creation has changed around him. Dredd is always different, but always the same.
Laughter Lab
Runs until 5th June 2022
Come and take part in the world’s first mass public experiment exploring the psychology behind cartoon humour, devised in partnership with Robin Dunbar, Professor of Evolutionary Psychology in the Department of Experimental Psychology, University of Oxford.
What makes a cartoon funny? Does science hold the answers? Or is laughter spontaneous and deeply personal? We need YOU to help uncover the answers by casting your vote on treasures from The Cartoon Museum collection.
As well as laughing your way around this groundbreaking experiment, you will also discover uplifting and amusing perspectives on laughter and humour from a giggling gang of cartoonists, comedians, psychologists and scientists.
• Book your side-splitting tickets here | Browse exclusive exhibition merchandise here
• Ten Years to Save the World Exhibition
Runs until 14th January 2022 at The Open Centre, MediaCity, Salford, M50 2NT and is open from Monday – Thursday – 9.00am to 8.30pm and Fri day- Sunday – 9.00am to 10.00pm. Free | Web: www.mediacityuk.co.uk/spaces/event-venues/open-centre | Events at Media City
A showcase of comic artwork and storytelling in response to the climate crisis by leading comic artists in the UK and the Philippines.
The free exhibition is an incredible showcase for the diversity and power of comics featuring ten internationally celebrated artists – Manix Abrera, Kajo Baldisimo with Budjette Tan, Sayra Begum, Darren Cullen, Ren Galeno, Emiliana Kampilan, Kevin Eric Raymundo, Zoom Rockman, Jack Teagle and Clarice Tudor.
Crucially, the work has been informed and shaped by young people from both countries, who took part in online discussions to develop the brief for the artists.
The Ten Years to Save the World comics can also be read and shared for free online at www.10yearstosavetheworld.com.
Ten Years to Save the World is supported by the British Council‘s Creative Commissions programme, a series of creative commissions exploring climate change through art, science and digital technology as part of The Climate Connection global initiative.
• Beano: The Art of Breaking the Rules runs until 6th March 2022, Somerset House, London
Calling all mayhem-makers and rule-breakers – Beano has taken over Somerset House!
Do you remember your mum and dad dragging you round boring old museums? Bleugh! Well, prepare for your favourite Beano characters to shake things up as we celebrate their spirit of rebellion with our major new exhibition this autumn.
Step into the pages of the comic and take a trip into Beanotown to explore how this beloved icon of British comics has fired up successive generations to break the rules, while discovering artists who push boundaries in their own original and wonderful ways.
Come face-to-face with the Beano gang – including Dennis and Gnasher, Minnie the Minx, Bananaman and the Bash Street Kids – through original comic artwork and amazing artefacts, plundered from the Beano’s archive.
The exhibition is curated by artist and lifelong Beano fan Andy Holden, who gathers today’s greatest creative rule-breakers, including writers, musicians, painters, sculptors and photographers. Each creative revels in their own spirit of rebellion and contributors include Sarah Lucas, Hardeep Pandhal, Phyllida Barlow, pop star Chris Sievey (otherwise known by his alter-ego Frank Sidebottom), Martin Creed, Alex Chinneck, Heather Phillipson, Ryan Gander, Jann Haworth, Emma Hart, editorial cartoonist Martin Rowson, Rene Matić, Bedwyr Williams and many more. New works include a recording featuring young fiction writer Alex Wheatle, a comic strip from artist Nicola Lane and a neon sculpture from Simeon Barclay.
So whether you want to be inspired by fearless artistic mavericks, revisit a much-loved childhood comic masterpiece or explore the Beano’s larger-than-life characters with your own little rebels, this exhibition will prove that there really is no age limit on the art of breaking the rules.
• Read Richard Sheaf’s photo review of this amazing exhibition here
Tickets: £16 / £12.50 concessions | Under 6s free | £22 Family of 3 £38 Family of 4 | Open Sat, Sun & Tue 10.00 – 18.00. Wed – Fri 11.00 – 20.00. Last entry 1 hour prior to closing. Closed on Mondays except on the following dates (during school holidays) when the exhibition will be open 10.00 – 18.00 – Mon 25 Oct 2021; Mon 20 Dec 2021; Mon 27 Dec 2021; Mon 03 Jan 2022; and Mon 14 Feb 2022
For telephone bookings call 0333 320 2836 between 09.00 – 20.00 – Mon-Fri, 10.00-20.00 – Sat, 10.00 – 18.00 Sun and Bank Holidays.
Group bookings offer: buy 10 or more ‘Full Price’ tickets and get 10% discount. To book for a group of 20 or more, phone our groups booking line on 0333 320 2836 between 09.00 – 20.00 – Mon-Fri, 10.00-20.00 – Sat, 10.00 – 18.00 Sun and Bank Holidays. Group bookings are subject to availability.
Educational bookings offer: buy 10 or more ‘Student +12’ tickets and get a free ‘Teacher/Tutor’ ticket per 10 tickets booked. This offer is not available online. Please phone our group booking line on 0333 320 2836 between 09.00 – 20.00 – Mon-Fri, 10.00-20.00 – Sat, 10.00 – 18.00 Sun and Bank Holidays or email visitor@somersethouse.org.uk. Group bookings are subject to availability.
2022
JANUARY 2022
Manchester Comic & Film Fair
11.00 am – 4.00 pm – 22nd January 2022
Sachas, Tib Street, Back Piccadilly, Manchester, M4 1SH
Web: goldenorbit.co.uk
Please make sure you have face coverings at the fairs. Hand sanitizer will be provided at the door
Birmingham Comic & Film Fair
11.00 am – 4.00 pm – 29th January 2022
Birmingham
Walker Memorial Hall, Ampton Road, Birmingham, B15 2UJ | £2
Web: goldenorbit.co.uk
Please make sure you have face coverings at the fairs. Hand sanitizer will be provided at the door
FEBRUARY 2022
Leeds Comic & Film Fair
11.00 am – 4.00 pm – 5th February 2022
Park Plaza Leeds, Boar Lane, Leeds, LS1 5NS
Web: goldenorbit.co.uk
Please make sure you have face coverings at the fairs. Hand sanitizer will be provided at the door
Dundee Comic Con – BGCP Comic Con 2022
Saturday 5th February 2022
Bonar Hall, Dundee
• BGCP events on Facebook – list
Teesside Comic-Con 2022
Sunday 6th February
Web and Tickets: unleashedtickets.co.uk | Events Updates on Facebook
Hosted by Unleashed Events
Cartoon Conference 2022: Survival Guide
10.00am – 5.30pm | Monday, February 7, 2022 | The Cartoon Museum, 55 Wells St England, W1W 8HJ
Speakers include representatives from the Society of Authors, the UK’s organisation representing all types of writers, illustrators and literary translators; and the Association of Illustrators, the professional body for illustration in the UK, who will present a “Publishing Contracts Masterclass“.
The individual speakers will be cartoonist, illustrator and author Ruby Etc, speaking on “Online/Offline: Experiences of a Cartoonist on Social Media“; British-Indian creative Natasha Natarajan, who runs a freelance arts business under the name Chikaboo Designs, presenting a talk entitled “FML Comics: It’s all about the process, right?“; Comics Laureate Stephen Holland; artist Steve Marchant, Cartoonist and Learning Officer at The Cartoon Museum; and Holly Burrows, Commercial Manager at The Cartoon Museum who will offer a talk on “Preparing your work for Retail“.
• Book your place here | Tickets for the event are £60 Standard / £40 Student, with Catering included. A small number of bursary places available – please email shop@cartoonmuseum.org for an application form | Read our news story about this event
York Winter Comic-Con 2022
Sunday 13th February 2022
York Racecourse
Web and Tickets: unleashedtickets.co.uk | Events Updates on Facebook
Hosted by Unleashed Events
BGCP Kilmarnock Comic and Toy Market
Saturday 19th February 2022
Kilmarnock Train Station
• BGCP events on Facebook – list
Sheffield Comic & Film Fair
11.00 am – 4.00 pm – 19th February 2022
Showroom Cinema, Paternoster Row, Sheffield City Centre, Sheffield, S1 2BX
Web: goldenorbit.co.uk
Please make sure you have face coverings at the fairs. Hand sanitizer will be provided at the door
Bolton Comic Con 2022
February 22nd 2022
University of Bolton Stadium, De Haviland Way, Bolton
Organised by NWCC Events
A fun family themed comic con offering a mix of SciFi and comics guests, Retro Gaming, TV and film related displays / photo ops and a cosplay competition run by The Heroic Alliance. Guests include comic artist Neil Roche
Cumbernauld Comic Con – BGCP Comic Con 2022
Saturday 26th February 2022
Cumbernauld
• BGCP events on Facebook – list
London Comic Con Spring 2022
26th – 27th February 2022 | London Comic Con Spring is open from 9am until 6pm, Saturday and Sunday
Olympia London
Web: www.londoncomicconspring.com
Bringing you the Stars of Film and TV for you to meet, get their autographs and have your photo taken with them.
Liverpool Comic & Film Fair
11.00 am – 4.00 pm – 27th February 2022
The Liner Hotel, Lord Nelson Street, Liverpool, L3 5QB
Web: goldenorbit.co.uk
Please make sure you have face coverings at the fairs. Hand sanitizer will be provided at the door.
MARCH 2022
Birmingham Comic & Film Fair
11.00 am – 4.00 pm – 5th March 2022
Birmingham
Walker Memorial Hall, Ampton Road, Birmingham, B15 2UJ | £2
Web: goldenorbit.co.uk
Please make sure you have face coverings at the fairs. Hand sanitizer will be provided at the door
Bristol Comic Con and Gaming Festival Spring
Sunday 6th March 2022, Ashton Gate Stadium
Hosted by UK Comicon and Gaming Festivals
Facebook Event Page | Tickets: www.mooseeventsuk.com
A UK based, 100% independently run comic convention event, that puts its focus squarely on comic books, their creators, fans and the community that surrounds them
Durham Comic-Con 2022
Sunday 6th March
Web and Tickets: unleashedtickets.co.uk | Events Updates on Facebook
Hosted by Unleashed Events
Largs Comic Con – BGCP Comic Con 2022
Saturday 12th March 2022
• BGCP events on Facebook – list
Manchester Comic & Film Fair
11.00 am – 4.00 pm – 12th March 2022
Sachas, Tib Street, Back Piccadilly, Manchester, M4 1SH
Web: goldenorbit.co.uk
Please make sure you have face coverings at the fairs. Hand sanitizer will be provided at the door
Sheffield Comic-Con 2022
Sunday 13th March
Magna Science Adventure Centre, Sheffield
Web and Tickets: unleashedtickets.co.uk | Events Updates on Facebook
Hosted by Unleashed Events
Dublin Comic Con – Spring Edition 2022
12th – 13th March 2022
Web: www.dublincomiccon.com | Twitter | Facebook
Meet a host of comic creators, international cosplayers, SFX Industry pros, artists, fans and professionals all coming together for a weekend of talks, workshops, demos, interactive activities and all around great family fun with some amazing guests, panels, cosplay and more
Dorset Comic Con and Gaming Festival 2022
Sunday 20th March 2022, Redlands Community Sports Hub, Weymouth
Hosted by UK Comicon and Gaming Festivals
Tickets: www.mooseeventsuk.com | Facebook Events Page for UK Comiccon and Gaming Festivals
BGCP Ayr Comic and Toy Market
Saturday 18th March 2022
The Grain Exchange, Ayr
• BGCP events on Facebook – list
Commando and British Comics Swap Meet 8
10.00am – 4.00pm Saturday 26th March 2022
29th Glasgow Scout Group, Cameron Halls, 147 Mossgiel Road, Newlands, Glasgow G43 2BY
Entry to the event: Adults £1 Children Free | For table enquires contact Stephen via the Commando and British Weekly Comics – Collectors, Buy, Sell and Swaps Page on Facebook
Leeds Comic & Film Fair
11.00 am – 4.00 pm – 26th March 2022
Park Plaza Leeds, Boar Lane, Leeds, LS1 5NS
Web: goldenorbit.co.uk
Please make sure you have face coverings at the fairs. Hand sanitizer will be provided at the door
DATES NOT YET ANNOUNCED
Cardiff Comics Carnival 2022
Last took place in March in 2019
• Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Email: cardiffcomicscarnival@gmail.com
APRIL 2022
Sheffield Comic & Film Fair
11.00 am – 4.00 pm – 2nd April 2022
Showroom Cinema, Paternoster Row, Sheffield City Centre, Sheffield, S1 2BX
Web: goldenorbit.co.uk
Please make sure you have face coverings at the fairs. Hand sanitizer will be provided at the door
Doncaster Unleashed Comic-Con 2022
Sunday 3rd April
Tickets: www.unleashedtickets.co.uk | Events Updates on Facebook
Hosted by Unleashed Events
Wales Comic Con 2022
2nd – 3rd April 2022
Telford International Centre
Web and Tickets: www.walescomiccon.com | Facebook | Twitter
Swansea Comic and Gaming Convention 2022
9th – 10th April 2022 – Swansea Arena
Web: http://scgc.org.uk
Swansea Comic and Gaming Convention returns after two years of digital conventions, with a new bigger venue and an extra day.
Independently run convention focusing on Comics and Gaming, seeking to promote local artists and vendors as well as those from further afield. Guests who attend come from the comic book, video game and tabletop gaming industries.
Are you a creative itching to get the new book/game out there to the public? Or a trader in all things geeky? Book your table now while still space available.
Each year, Swansea Comic and Gaming Convention donate a percentage of each ticket sold to a local charity. which this year is Hafal. This is a Member-led Charity supporting people with mental health problems – with a special emphasis on those with a serious mental illness – and their carers and families. They also support others with a range of disabilities and their carers and families.
Gateshead Unleashed Comic-Con 2022
Sunday 10th April
The Lancastrian Suite, Gateshead
Tickets: www.unleashedtickets.co.uk | Events Updates on Facebook
Hosted by Unleashed Events
Edinburgh Comic Con 2022
16th – 17th April 2022
EICC
A weekend of madness from the world of film and TV, comic books, gaming, cosplay and much more. Valid tickets for a planned September 2020 event have been transferred by default, but refunds are available. Patrons are asked to request refunds by 31st July 2020. Tickets from www.heroconventions.com
Morecambe Comic Con 2022
Monday 18th April 2022
The Platform, Station Buildings, Marine Road Central, Morecambe LA4 4DB
Facebook: morecambecomiccon
SOLD OUT – SFWXI /SFW XII April 2022
21st – 22nd April 2022 Vauxhall Holiday Park, Great Yarmouth
Web: scifiweekender.com
Now in its 11th cycle, The Sci-fi & Fantasy Weekender continues to promise the ultimate Sci-Fi & Fantasy experience. Quite simply it’s a festival of fun and activities for people who love science fiction, fantasy, horror, gaming, and cosplay
Birmingham Comic & Film Fair
11.00 am – 4.00 pm – 23rd April 2022
Birmingham
Walker Memorial Hall, Ampton Road, Birmingham, B15 2UJ | £2
Web: goldenorbit.co.uk
Please make sure you have face coverings at the fairs. Hand sanitizer will be provided at the door
BGCP Kirkaldy Comic and Toy Market
Saturday 23rd April 2022
Mercat Shopping Centre
• BGCP events on Facebook – list
Liverpool Comic & Film Fair
11.00 am – 4.00 pm – 24th April 2022
The Liner Hotel, Lord Nelson Street, Liverpool, L3 5QB
Web: goldenorbit.co.uk
Please make sure you have face coverings at the fairs. Hand sanitizer will be provided at the door
DATES NOT YET ANNOUNCED
Stoke CON Trent 2022
Usually early April
Web: stokecontrent.co.uk | Facebook | Twitter
Stoke CON Trent is Staffordshire’s Biggest TV, Film, Comic and Memorabilia Convention
Yorkshire Cosplay Con 2022
Usually late April
Web: www.yorkshirecosplayconvention.co.uk
MAY 2022
Free Comic Book Day 2021
Alway first day in May – unless derailed by Pandemics
For details of events in your local comic shop visit www.freecomicbookday.com
Search for participating stores outside the United States at www.freecomicbookday.com/StoreLocator?StartIntl
With Free Comic Book Day postponed, comic creators Neo Edmund and Russell Nohelty hosted an alt free comic day over 1st and 2nd May 2020, filled with free digital books, tons of awesome panels, and great creators. Offering 14 hours of live streaming you can sign up to hear about the next event and watch a replay here.
The main stage panels were live streamed to Russell’s web site, along with Facebook, Twitter, Youtube, and Twitch. Attendees could interact with the panels of guests through the live video stream and comment feed. They asked hundreds of questions that were answered live on the air.
Wirral Comic Con 2022
Saturday 1st – Sunday 2nd May 2022
Floral Pavillion
Web: wirralcomiccon.co.uk
No comic guests announced as of December 2021
BGCP Comic Con 2022 – Shawlands
Saturday 7th May 2022
Destiny Church, Shawlands
• BGCP events on Facebook – list
Manchester Comic & Film Fair
11.00 am – 4.00 pm – 7th May 2022
Sachas, Tib Street, Back Piccadilly, Manchester, M4 1SH
Web: goldenorbit.co.uk
Please make sure you have face coverings at the fairs. Hand sanitizer will be provided at the door
Comic Con World Blackpool 2022
7th – 8th May 2022
Web: www.comicconworld.co.uk | Facebook
Portsmouth Comic Con 2022
Saturday 7th – Sunday 8th May 2022
Portsmouth Guildhall
Web: www.portsmouthcomiccon.com
Elescar Unleashed Comic-Con 2022
Sunday 22nd May
Elescar Heritage Centre
Tickets: www.unleashedtickets.co.uk | Events Updates on Facebook
Hosted by Unleashed Events
Liverpool Comic Con 2022
21st – 22nd May 2022
Exhibition Centre Liverpool
Web: www.comicconventionliverpool.co.uk | Facebook
Tickets available now – be aware their November 2021 event sold out, so you may want to get your tickets ASAP…
MCM Expo London 2022
27th – 29th May, 2022
ExCeL London
Web: www.mcmcomiccon.com/london
Lawless Comic 2022
Saturday 28th – Sunday 29th May 2022 Doubletree by Hilton Hotel, Bristol | Tickets £60 for the weekend, and if the event doesn’t sell out, then one day tickets will be available nearer the time at £30 a day
• Facebook Event Page | Web: lawlesscomiccon.co.uk | Facebook | YouTube
Weekend and Trader Table Tickets go on sale in January 2022
Lawless Comic Convention is a British based not for profit comic convention organised by fans and for fans. The event was virtual in 2021 and panels can be found on YouTube. The 2022 guest list includes a slew of 2000AD creators and more, including John Wagner, John Higgins, Mick McMahon and Glenn Fabry
DATES NOT YET ANNOUNCED
Enniskillen Comic Fest 2022
Previously early May
Facebook: https://facebook.com/EnniskillenComicFe
Oldham Comic Con 2022
Previously May in 2019
Queen Elizabeth Hall, Oldham
• Find Oldham Comic Con on Facebook
JUNE 2022
BGCP Comic Con 2022 – Ayr
Saturday 4th June 2022
Ayr Citadel Leisure Centre
• BGCP events on Facebook – list
Leeds Unleashed 2022
Sunday 5th June
Royal Armouries, Leeds
Web and Tickets: unleashedtickets.co.uk | Events Updates on Facebook
Hosted by Unleashed Events
BGCP Comic Con 2022 – Bathgate
Saturday 25th June 2022
Reconnect Regal Theatre
• BGCP events on Facebook – list
Macc-Pow 2022
Usually late June – probably 26th June (to be confirmed)
Web: http://www.maccpow.co.uk | Facebook
DATES NOT YET ANNOUNCED
Carlisle Comic Con 2022
Usually early June
• Find Carlisle Comic Con on Facebook
JULY 2022
BGCP Comic Con 2022 – Dunoon
Saturday 2nd July 2022
The Queen’s Hall Dunoon
• BGCP events on Facebook – list
Newcastle Comic-Con 2022
Sunday 10th July
St James Park, Newcastle
Tickets: www.unleashedtickets.co.uk | Events Updates on Facebook
Hosted by Unleashed Events
London Film and Comic Con 2022
9th – 10th July 2022
London Olympia
Web: www.londonfilmandcomiccon.com
London Film & Comic Con promises to bring you some of your favourite stars from TV, Film and Comics as well as a whole host of fun activities including photo shoots, panels, autograph sessions and hundreds of stalls full of TV and Film memorabilia to browse
BGCP Comic Con 2022 – Stirling
Saturday 16th July 2022
The Albert Halls, Stirling
• BGCP events on Facebook – list
Cornwall Comic Con and Gaming Festival 2022
Saturday 30th – Sunday 31st July 2022 Truro College
Hosted by UK Comicon and Gaming Festivals
Tickets: www.mooseeventsuk.com | Facebook Events Page for UK Comiccon and Gaming Festivals
The Cornwall Comic and Gaming Festival is a family friendly event with traders, props, guest signers, film cars and bikes, gaming from table top to retro consoles to try, cosplayers and professional costumers groups, cosplay competition (UKCGF championships run all year at events they organise with a final). Something for all ages!
BGCP Comic Con 2022 – Loch Lomond
Saturday 30th – Sunday 31st July 2022
The Queen’s Hall, Dunoon
• BGCP events on Facebook – list
Comic Con Manchester 2022
Saturday 30th – Sunday 31st July 2022
BEC Arena, Manchester
Web: www.comicconventionmanchester.co.uk | Facebook | Twitter | YouTube
DATES NOT YET ANNOUNCED
ELCAF
Usually early July | East London
Web: http://elcaf.co.uk
• Facebook • Instagram • Twitter
ELCAF changed the way it operated in 2021, offering a range of workshops. The usually annual event showcases the very best in contemporary comics and sequential illustration, and its exhibitor selection is based on artists and publishers creating high quality works within these fields.
Glasgow Comic Con 2022
Usually early July
Website: www.glasgowcomiccon.com
Twitter: @glasgowcomiccon | Facebook: glasgowcomiccon
Preston Comic Con 2021
Usually early July
Facebook: Prestoncomiccon
AUGUST 2022
Perth Comic Con 2022 – BGCP Event
Saturday 6th August
• BGCP events on Facebook – list
BGCP Inverurie Comic Con 2022
Saturday 13th August
• BGCP events on Facebook – list
Dublin Comic Con – Summer Edition 2022
6th – 7th August 2022
Web: www.dublincomiccon.com | Twitter | Facebook
Wigan Comic Con 2022 (NWCC Events)
Saturday 6th August 2022
Robin Park Leisure Centre
• Details on Facebook
Organised by NWCC Events
Glasgow Film and Comic Con 2022
20th – 22nd August 2022
Braehead Arena, Glasgow
Web: www.filmandcomicconglasgow.com
York Unleashed 2022
Sunday 28th August
York Races, Racecourse Road, York YO23 1EX
Web and Tickets: unleashedtickets.co.uk | Events Updates on Facebook
Hosted by Unleashed Events
Morecambe Comic Con 2022
Monday 29th August 2022
The Platform, Station Buildings, Marine Road Central, Morecambe LA4 4DB
Facebook: morecambecomiccon
DATES NOT YET ANNOUNCED
Small Press Day 2022
Held virtually in August in 2021
Web: smallpressday.co.uk
Promoting independent comic press and micro publishers. In 2016 an idea born on Twitter led to a series of nationwide events in a matter of weeks. The inaugural Small Press Day – a celebratory event designed to spotlight the possibilities of small press publishing and to introduce its practitioners to the far wider audience they deserve – proved to be a phenomenal success. No less than 25 events championing the small press were held across the UK and Ireland on the same day in July – including shop signings, fairs, panels and workshops – resulting in #SmallPressDay to trend throughout.
SEPTEMBER 2022
Collectormania: Film & Comic Con Birmingham
Saturday 3rd – Sunday 4th September 2022
National Exhibition Centre (NEC) – Birmingham
Organised by Showmasters | Showmasters events on EventBrite
• Book tickets here
NICE 2022
3rd – 4th September 2022
Web: https://nicecon.co.uk | Facebook: https://facebook.com/niceconvention
Tripwire Presents Bristol Comic Con
3rd – 4th September 2022
DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel near Bristol Temple Meads, Bristol | Web: tripwirecomiccons.com | Buy Tickets via Eventbrite
Tripwire Presents Bristol Comic Con is a new convention taking place in Bristol’s Doubletree at Hilton in Redcliffe featuring the best in UK, US and European comic talent. It will feature a range of veterans and new talent and will also include exhibitors selling comics, workshops with comic creators and panels showcasing the guests at the event. It will be inclusive, welcoming and accessible.
Tripwire was involved with two successful Portsmouth comic cons and are building on their reputation with this new event which they intend will be an annual part of the comics convention calendar.
Guests include, in alphabetical order: artist Elena Casagrande, Laurence Campbell, Howard Chaykin, Jorge Fornes, Lysa Hawkins, Jock, Mike Perkins, Sean Phillips, Frank Quitely, Cavan Scott, Martin Simmonds, Brian Stelfreeze and Rob Williams
ICE: International Comic Expo Birmingham 2022
Saturday 10th September 2022
Edgbaston Stadium
Web: https://internationlcomicexpo.wordpress.com | For the latest news visit Facebook or follow ICE on Twitter
ICE Birmingham 2022 is one of the few major comic conventions still 100% focussed on comics and comic art and devoted to fans who appreciate the art form in all of its guises.
This is reflected in the event’s guest list, featuring artists and writers from all over the world of comics including those from Marvel, 2000AD, Image, DC, Dark Horse and all across the indie comics spectrum.
You can be part of this year’s event as an independent exhibitor, showcasing your books to the hundreds of fans attending and we now also give Indy publishers the opportunity to feature their new books on our live streaming show THE ICE-CAST LIVE that broadcasts across all major social media platforms every Thursday night at 8.00pm GMT.
To find out more, or to book exhibition space at ICE 2022 this September visit our website.
Sheffield Comic-Con 2022
Sunday 25th September
Magna Science Adventure Centre
Web and Tickets: unleashedtickets.co.uk | Events Updates on Facebook
Hosted by Unleashed Events
DATES NOT YET ANNOUNCED
Omagh ComicFest 2022
Usually September – no event in 2020 or 2021
• Follow the event on Facebook
Bristol Comic Con and Gaming Festival 2022
Usually Early September
Hosted by UK Comicon and Gaming Festivals
Tickets: www.mooseeventsuk.com | Facebook Events Page for UK Comiccon and Gaming Festivals
Malta Comic Con 2022
Originally planned for September in 2021, but cancelled
Organised by Wicked Comics, this event regularly features a number of British comic creators, which is why it included here. Sadly, COVID has wreaked havic on event plans, but the team remain committed as ever in their mission to continue to foster and nurture the Maltese Comic Scene.
For the latest news, keep an eye on their Facebook pages | www.facebook.com/maltacomiccon | www.facebook.com/wicked.comics.malta
OCTOBER 2022
BGCP Comic Con 2022 – Galashiels
Saturday 1st October 2022
Volunteer Hall Galashiels
• BGCP events on Facebook – list
Teeside Unleashed 2022
Sunday 2nd October
Teesside University Students’ Union
Web and Tickets: unleashedtickets.co.uk | Events Updates on Facebook
Hosted by Unleashed Events
Lakes International Comics Art Festival 2022
14th – 16th October 2022
Bowness-in-Windermere, The Lake District – NB moved from Kendal
If you are looking for accommodation over the weekend, then here are some starting points: the “Explore South Lakeland” web site | AirBnB (8th – 12th October 2020 Search Results) |It’s also worth looking further afield and, perhaps coming into town by public transport or car. Here’s some information via TripAdvisor
Want to receive news about the Lakes International Comic Art Festival? Then sign up for the newsletter now | More about the Festival at www.comicartfestival.com
Barnsley Comic Con 2022
Sunday 16th October
Teesside University Students’ Union
Web and Tickets: unleashedtickets.co.uk | Events Updates on Facebook
Hosted by Unleashed Events
BGCP Comic Con 2022 – Oban
Saturday 29th October 2022
The Corran Halls
• BGCP events on Facebook – list
Nottingham Comic Convention 2022
29th October 2022
Web: nottinghamcomiccon.co.uk | Facebook
DATES NOT YET ANNOUNCED
Teeside Unleashed Comic-Con 2022
Usually early October
Web and Tickets: unleashedtickets.co.uk | Events Updates on Facebook
Hosted by Unleashed Events
Devon Comic Con and Gaming Festival 2022
Early October in 2022
Exeter Westpoint
Hosted by UK Comicon and Gaming Festivals
Tickets: www.mooseeventsuk.com | Facebook Events Page for UK Comiccon and Gaming Festivals
Northwich Comic Con 2022
Early October in 2022
Moemorial Court, Northwich
Facebook
Birmingham Comic & Film Fair
Usually late October
Birmingham
Walker Memorial Hall, Ampton Road, Birmingham, B15 2UJ | £2
Web: goldenorbit.co.uk
Wyntercon 2022
Usually late October
Web: www.wyntercon.org
Wyntercon is a not-for-profit CIO – a charitable incorporated organisation. They support and encourage those from underprivileged backgrounds to thrive within the creative sector and be part of their local community. The team are passionate about providing a platform for people to discover their skills and passions by giving them the confidence through the worlds of sci-fi & fantasy
NOVEMBER 2022
BGCP Comic Con 2022 – Aberdeen
Saturday 5th November 2022
Volunteer Hall Galashiels
• BGCP events on Facebook – list
Sunderland Comic-Con 2022
Sunday 6th November
Rainton Arena
Web and Tickets: unleashedtickets.co.uk | Events Updates on Facebook
Hosted by Unleashed Events
SFW 13 November 2022
10th – 13th November 2021 Great Yarmouth
Web: scifiweekender.com
Scottish Comic Book Day, showcasing Scottish Talent in Comics
Saturday 25th November 2022 | Twitter
“No tartan, no haggis, no bagpipes. Just a celebration of Scotland’s cultural contribution to comics and their spin-offs.”
Scottish Comic Book Day, launched in 2021, is primarily a celebration of comics, graphic novels, comic artwork and related media with a link to Scotland.
No-one owns it. “It’s yours, it’s mine, it’s a’body’s!”, we’re told. Comic shops can participate by having creators along to sell and sign their comics or by displaying comics with a Scottish link (creator, character, location, etc).
If you’re feeling more adventurous, why not have a drawing or writing workshop, or
make a comic of your own? The main thing is to share it widely. Post photos or videos of what you’re doing and use the hashtag #ScottishComicBookDay. (Creators can reach a wider audience by sharing their work on social media with the hashtag).
MCM Expo Birmingham 2022
12th – 13th November 2022
NEC Birmingham
Web: mcmcomiccon.com/birmingham
DATES NOT YET ANNOUNCED
BGCP Comic & Toy Market (Dunfermline)
Usually early November
Kingsgate Shopping Centre
• BGCP events on Facebook – list
Liverpool Comic & Film Fair
Usually early November
The Liner Hotel, Lord Nelson Street, Liverpool, L3 5QB | £2
Web: goldenorbit.co.uk
Plymouth Comic Con and Gaming Festival 2022
Usually early November
Tickets: www.mooseeventsuk.com | Facebook Events Page for UK Comiccon and Gaming Festivals
Thought Bubble Festival 2022
Usually mid November
Web www.thoughtbubblefestival.com
Thought Bubble is the Yorkshire Comic Art Festival, a week long celebration of comics, illustration and more spread across the whole of Yorkshire, finishing in a huge two day comic convention in Harrogate. The organisation use their festival week to promote the power of comics, aiming to inspire, educate and bring people together like no other medium, so whether you’re a longtime fan of comic art or have never picked up a graphic novel before, you’ll find something for you.
In addition to its guest line-up, the event also features hundreds of stands of comic creators work.
Thought Bubble is a non-profit organisation with our chosen charity being Barnardo’s.
Hull Comic-Con 2022
Usually mid November
Web: www.hullcomiccon.com
Whitby Unleashed Comic-Con 2022
Usually mid-November
Whitby Pavillion
Web and Tickets: unleashedtickets.co.uk | Events Updates on Facebook
Hosted by Unleashed Events
BGCP Comic & Toy Market (Paisley)
Usually late November
• BGCP events on Facebook – list
Leeds Comic & Film Fair
Late November in 2021
Park Plaza Leeds, Boar Lane, Leeds, LS1 5NS | £2
Web: goldenorbit.co.uk
Wales Comic Con: Telford Takeover 2022
Late November in 2021
Telford International Centre
Web and Tickets: www.walescomiccon.com
Wales Comic Con is a convention that celebrates everything great about pop culture. At Wales Comic Con, you’ll be able to meet comic book artists, film and TV stars, sports personalities and more – you can even ask them a few hard-hitting questions at our free Q&A sessions. There will also be a large variety of stalls selling a range of gifts, exclusive photo ops, gaming activities and plenty of other activities being held over the course of the weekend event.
Hull Comic-Con 2022
Late November in 2021
Bonus Arena, Hull
Web: www.hullcomiccon.com
Offering special guests, Cosplay contest with prizes to be won, photo opportunities, comic artists and authors, prop displays, retro video gaming and arcade machines from Keep It Retro, Table top gaming from Back To The Board Talks, panels, Q&As, quizzes, drawing workshops with out artists, a creative zone for adults and kids, Green Screen photography and Movie cars
Whitby Unleashed Comic-Con 2022
Late November in 2021
Whitby Pavillion
Web and Tickets: unleashedtickets.co.uk | Events Updates on Facebook
Hosted by Unleashed Events
BGCP Comic & Toy Market (Ayr)
Late November in 2021
The Grain Exchange
• BGCP events on Facebook – list
BGCP Comic & Toy Market (Glenrothes)
Late November in 2021
Kingdom Shopping Centre
• BGCP events on Facebook – list
Invasion Three – Comic, Movie and TV Convention
Late November in 2021 – Taunton
Manchester Comic & Film Fair
Late November in 2021
Sachas, Tib Street, Back Piccadilly, Manchester, M4 1SH | £2
Web: goldenorbit.co.uk
Reading Comic Con 2022
Late November in 2021
Rivermead Leisure Centre Complex, Reading
• Tickets | Facebook | Twitter
DECEMBER 2022
BGCP Comic & Toy Market (Rutherglen)
Mid December last year
• BGCP events on Facebook – list
London Comic Mart
Mid December last year
Royal National Hotel, 38-51 Bedford Way, London WC1H 0DG
Early Entry Price: £5 from 11 am – 12 noon – Free entry from 12 noon
Web: londoncomicmart.co.uk
BGCP Comic & Toy Market (Kirkcaldy)
Mid December last year
Mercat Shopping Centre
• BGCP events on Facebook – list
JANUARY 2023
Liverpool Comic & Film Fair
Early January in 2022
The Liner Hotel, Lord Nelson Street, Liverpool, L3 5QB
Web: goldenorbit.co.uk
Please make sure you have face coverings at the fairs. Hand sanitizer will be provided at the door
2023
FEBRUARY 2023
PROVISIONAL True Believers Comic Festival 2023
Early February – sadly cancelled in 2020 and 2021
Jurys Inn, Cheltenham
Head to www.oktruebelievers.com for the latest news | Sign up for the Troobs Newsletter |
• Haunted Nerds Podcast | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram
JUNE 2023
PROVISIONAL Comics Salopia 2023
Early June
Shrewsbury
Mostly free entry
Web: comicssalopia.com | Facebook
Events for the second bi-annual Comics Salopia event will take place in a number of venues including the Castle Grounds, The Museum & Art Gallery, The Dana Prison, The Town Square, Shrewsbury Library and the Guildhall University Building.
Organised by Shane Chebsey, with support from the local council, businesses and Shrewsbury Museum and Art Gallery, this Festival will raise funds for co-organiser and local councillor Jane Mackenzie’s new charity Share Shrewsbury, which helps people of all ages affected by addiction.
2024
APRIL 2024
Keighley Comic Con 2024
Saturday 27th April 2024
Victoria Hall Keighley
Hosted by Savage Beast Events | Facebook Event Page
Ongoing Events
ELCAF
Web: http://elcaf.co.uk | Facebook | Instagram | Twitter
In place of its annual celebration of comics, ELCAF has been running virtual events throughout the Pandemic and is engaged in numerous other comic-related activities through the year
Comics Salopia: Shrewsbury Comics Trail
Launching Saturday 23rd July 2021- Free
Comics Salopia returns to Shrewsbury in style, with the launch of the Shrewsbury Comics Trail, a brilliant idea combining nine life sized art pieces created by ten world famous comic artists and writers. Read our news story
• Head over to the Comics Salopia web site now for full details of the Shrewsbury Comics Trail | Sign up to the Facebook Group The Shrewsbury Comics Trail to stay up to date with the latest news, or follow the project on social media
Comics Events on the Web – Sources
• downthetubes Event Guide | Events News | Exhibition News
• The Convention Collective: http://theconventioncollective.com
• Comic Conventions UK – www.comicconventions.co.uk
• Facebook – Real Comic Conventions We Love
• Comic and Film Fairs hosted by Golden Orbit – Facebook Listing
• MSE Comic Conventions Listing on Facebook
• Comics and other events hosted by Savage Beast – Facebook Listing
• NWCC Events Group on Facebook – North West-based comics events
John Freeman
The founder of downthetubes, John works as a comics editor, writer, as Creative Consultant on the Dan Dare audio adventures for B7 Media, and on promotional work for the Lakes International Comic Art Festival. Working in British comics publishing for over 30 years, his credits include editor of titles such as Doctor Who Magazine, Star Trek Magazine and Babylon 5 Magazine. He also edited the comics anthology STRIP Magazine and edited several audio comics for ROK Comics. He has also edited several comic collections, including volumes of “Charley’s War and “Dan Dare”. He’s the writer of “Crucible”, a creator-owned project with 2000AD artist Smuzz, published on Tapastic; and “Death Duty” and “Skow Dogs” with Dave Hailwood for digital comic 100% Biodegradable.
Categories: British Comics, downthetubes Comics News, downthetubes News, Events, Exhibitions
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