Festivals
Festivals are the best way to experience the power of comics. Hundreds of creators every year set up tables to introduce their latest work, as well as participate in educational arts workshops, author talks, and panel discussions, and thousands of attendees show up to experience the magic. Come join us this festival season!
MICE
The Massachusetts Independent Comics Expo is the Boston area’s premiere event dedicated to the exciting and accessible art form of independent comics and graphic novels. At MICE, hundreds of independent comics artists and small press publishers exhibit their work, and thousands of attendees turn out to meet them. With hands-on workshops and inclusive panel discussions, MICE has been engaging people of all ages and backgrounds for over twelve years.
Boston Comics in Color
Festival
The Boston Comics in Color Festival is a family-friendly event focused on comics storytelling by and about people of color. As a fiscal sponsor, BCAF provides access to grant opportunities and offers material support for this groundbreaking event in the city of Boston.
Boston Kids Comics Festival
The Boston Kids Comics Fest is a daylong festival that invites children, teens, parents and guardians, educators and librarians to discover and explore kid friendly comics, graphic novels and hybrid books. The event hosts a book fair with local artists and headlining creators as well as hands-on workshops for kids.
Calmer Con Boston
Calmer Con Boston is the only sensory-friendly comics and pop culture convention specifically designed to accommodate the needs of autistic attendees and those with sensory processing challenges. Everyone can enjoy the experience of cosplay, meeting comic artists and activities like brick building, workshops, and lightsaber training.
What You'll Find
BCAF's festivals showcase creators from all over New England, a wide range of styles, and fresh educational programming. Meet first-time authors and seasoned comics professionals alike, listen in on an author presentations, or pick up an award-winning title. Join us!
Artist Grants
BCAF awards mini-grants for the best new comic work every year. Look for these award winners at your next festival!
Educational Workshops
In our free workshops, participants learn comics tips and tricks from professional artists. Dabble in figure drawing, character design, or even binding your own comic. There's always something new to learn!
Literacy
Comics have become the road to literacy for many of our youth. Self-published comics, both physical and online, are part of this trend and continue to attract a young readership.
Youth and Family Programming
BCAF programs include a range of family-friendly events. From drawing workshops to author presentations, there's something for all ages!
Emerging Artists
Amidst a roster of professional cartoonists and writers, BCAF festivals make space for new, emerging talent. These artists bring a fresh perspective and style to a festival and pave the way for the next generation of creators.
Diverse Stories
BCAF artists of all races, abilities, gender,and backgrounds create
personal stories you can't find at your local bookstore. The power of these comics keep audiences coming back for more.