The Ultimate 2025 Guide to Book Conferences for Comics, Manga, and Graphic Novel Creators and Fans

Suppose you’re an author, artist, or enthusiast of comics, manga, graphic novels, light novels, or cross-genre storytelling. In that case, you know that conventions and book fairs are the lifeblood of the creative community. They offer unmatched opportunities to network, showcase your work, attend informative panels, and connect with fans.

In 2025, a variety of events across the globe cater to both creators and readers, whether you’re looking to publish independently, pitch to publishers, or simply celebrate your love of illustrated storytelling. Here’s your comprehensive guide to must-visit conventions and book conferences for comics, manga, graphic novels, and everything in between.

1. San Diego Comic-Con International (SDCC)

Location: San Diego, CA, USA
Dates: July 17-20, 2025

Why It’s a Must-Visit: San Diego Comic-Con (SDCC) is the crown jewel of comic book conventions, with a massive following among comic artists, manga creators, and graphic novelists. While traditionally seen as a pop culture phenomenon, SDCC has become essential for creators looking to connect with publishers and readers.

The Artist Alley and portfolio review sessions are prime spots for indie creators to showcase their work. Additionally, major publishers like Dark Horse, Image Comics, and Viz Media often make major announcements at this con.

What to Expect:

• High-profile panels with creators, voice actors, and Hollywood studios.
• Opportunities to sell self-published comics and graphic novels at small press booths.
• Networking with other creators and potential collaborations.

Pro Tip: Consider applying for a booth early if you're a self-published creator. Spots fill up quickly!

2. Self-Publishing Show Live

Location: London, UK
Dates: June 18-19, 2025

Why It’s a Must-Visit: This is the ultimate event for comic and graphic novel creators navigating the self-publishing world. Self-Publishing Show Live is tailored for independent authors and creators who want to learn about marketing, distribution, and launching their books to a global audience.

While not specific to comics or graphic novels, the conference’s workshops on audience building, crowdfunding, and digital marketing are incredibly beneficial for visual storytellers.

What to Expect:

• Insights from successful independent authors and publishers.
• Sessions on selling illustrated works through platforms like Amazon, Kobo, and PublishDrive.
• Networking with digital-first creators and service providers.

Pro Tip: If you're publishing comics or manga as ebooks or serialized webtoons, attend sessions on metadata optimization and discoverability.

3. Anime Expo (AX)

Location: Los Angeles, CA, USA
Dates: July 4-7, 2025

Why It’s a Must-Visit: Anime Expo is a haven for manga creators and fans. While it focuses heavily on anime and fandom culture, the Artist Alley at AX is packed with independent manga artists and webtoon creators showcasing their work. If you’re working on a manga or light novel, this event can help you understand current trends and engage directly with your audience.

What to Expect:

• Exclusive premieres from top manga publishers and anime studios.
• A massive cosplay culture that draws fan interest to your illustrated stories.
• Workshops on manga illustration techniques and storytelling.

Pro Tip: If you have an existing audience, host a fan meetup or a "creator Q&A" to build your community. AX attendees love interactive sessions.

4. Angoulême International Comics Festival (FIBD)

Location: Angoulême, France
Dates: January 25-28, 2025

Why It’s a Must-Visit: As one of the world's most prestigious comic book festivals, the Angoulême International Comics Festival is a dream destination for comic creators. This European event celebrates the art of sequential storytelling in all forms—comics, graphic novels, and manga. It attracts thousands of professionals and fans, making it a great place to showcase your work if you want to enter the European market.

What to Expect:

• Awards and exhibitions that celebrate diverse art styles and storytelling.
• Publishing panels featuring top European publishers and indie creators.
• Networking with international creators and finding inspiration across genres.

Pro Tip: If you want to create a bilingual or international edition of your work, attend this event.

5. Thought Bubble Festival

Location: Harrogate, UK
Dates: November 11-17, 2025

Why It’s a Must-Visit: Thought Bubble is one of the UK’s premier comic art festivals, focusing strongly on indie and self-published creators. It’s an inclusive, creator-first festival where you’ll find everyone from Eisner Award-winning, graphic novelists to emerging manga artists. The community-driven atmosphere makes it perfect for creators looking to share their passion and gain new readers.

What to Expect:

• Artist booths for selling your comics, zines, and prints.
• Portfolio reviews with major UK and European publishers.
• Panels and workshops on the craft of comic book writing and illustration.

Pro Tip: Bring plenty of physical copies of your work! Attendees love to buy directly from creators.

6. New York Comic Con (NYCC)

Location: New York, NY, USA
Dates: October 9-12, 2025

Why It’s a Must-Visit: NYCC is one of the largest pop culture events in the world, rivaling SDCC in its scope and influence. It strongly emphasizes comics and graphic novels, making it a fantastic place for creators to showcase their work. Major publishers, streaming services, and literary agents often scout NYCC for fresh talent.

What to Expect:

• Artist Alley is filled with indie and established creators.
• A massive marketplace for selling self-published works.
• Panels with top creators discussing the future of graphic storytelling.

Pro Tip: Attending NYCC is an investment. Plan your travel and table costs early to maximize your exposure.

7. Toronto Comic Arts Festival (TCAF)

Location: Toronto, Canada
Dates: May 10-12, 2025

Why It’s a Must-Visit: TCAF celebrates independent comics, graphic novels, and web comics. Unlike traditional pop culture cons, TCAF emphasizes storytelling over spectacle. Thus, it’s an excellent place for self-published creators to connect with a sophisticated audience that appreciates narrative-driven works.

What to Expect:

• A curated exhibitor list featuring innovative comics and manga creators.
• Panels and workshops focused on indie publishing.
• Opportunities to meet literary agents and small press publishers.

Pro Tip: TCAF attracts an audience looking for unique and meaningful works, making it the perfect place to test experimental formats or visual styles.

8. Small Press Expo (SPX)

Location: Bethesda, MD, USA
Dates: September 13-14, 2025

Why It’s a Must-Visit: SPX is the go-to convention for small press and self-published creators working in comics and graphic novels. This event is for you if you want to make a name for yourself in the indie scene. The Ignatz Awards at SPX celebrate outstanding achievement in independent comics.

What to Expect:

• A highly curated selection of exhibitors ensures creators' visibility.
• Networking with small press publishers and zine creators.
• A supportive community that values creator-owned projects.

Pro Tip: Apply for the lottery-style exhibitor selection process as soon as it opens—booths are limited but highly coveted.

9. Comic Market (Comiket)

Location: Tokyo, Japan
Dates: August 2025 (Summer Edition), December 2025 (Winter Edition)

Why It’s a Must-Visit: Comiket is the world’s largest fan convention dedicated to self-published works (doujinshi), making it a dream destination for manga creators and fans alike. Comiket offers unparalleled exposure to an enthusiastic and supportive audience if you’re an independent creator of manga, light novels, or cross-genre stories.

What to Expect:

• A massive marketplace for selling self-published manga and light novels.
• Cultural experiences that inspire and inform your storytelling.
• Exclusive collaborations and limited-edition releases.

Pro Tip: Due to its size and popularity, be prepared for long lines and a competitive booth application process.

10. MCM London Comic Con

Location: London, UK
Dates: May 23-25, 2025

Why It’s a Must-Visit: MCM London Comic Con is the UK’s largest pop culture event, drawing creators and fans from across Europe. With a strong emphasis on comics, anime, and gaming, MCM is ideal for manga and graphic novel creators looking to expand their readership. It’s also a hub for networking with European publishers and influencers.

What to Expect:

• Panels featuring major industry players and indie creators.
• A thriving Artist Alley for showcasing your self-published works.
• Cosplay competitions and fan events that boost visibility for creator-owned projects.

Pro Tip: Participate in MCM’s creator panels to gain exposure and build your audience.

11. Bologna Children’s Book Fair (BCBF)

Location: Bologna, Italy
Dates: April 7-10, 2025

Why It’s a Must-Visit: If you’re working on graphic novels, manga, or illustrated stories for young readers, BCBF is a goldmine for making connections. This event is the global hub for children’s publishing, offering invaluable networking opportunities with publishers, literary agents, and distributors.

What to Expect:

• Rights fairs where you can pitch your work for international distribution.
• Workshops on illustration trends and storytelling for young audiences.
• A diverse array of exhibitors from all over the world.

Pro Tip: Prepare a professional pitch deck if you’re looking to sell your work internationally.

Final Thoughts

Whether writing an epic manga series, an experimental graphic novel, or a whimsical comic strip, attending book conferences and conventions can elevate your career in ways you never imagined.

The key is to tailor your experience—whether by showcasing your work, attending panels, or networking with industry professionals. The events listed here cater to creators and fans, making 2025 the perfect year to get involved and go wide with your storytelling dreams.