Oregon is a true comics mecca--home to a thriving community of creators, several major publishers, two college-level comics studies programs, dozens of beloved comic shops, and some of the biggest comic-cons in the country. Yet for years, something has been missing: a festival dedicated to independent & alternative comic creators and comics art.

That’s where we come in.

The Comic Arts Festival of Eugene (CAFE) celebrates Pacific Northwest comics art and artists, embracing the indie spirit of small press and independent comics. Inspired by events like TCAG, Comics LA, VanCAF, and Short Run, we are building something unique for Oregon. As we plan our inaugural event, we’re looking for community & industry support to bring it to life...

That’s where you come in.

CAFE will take place on Saturday, October 4, 2025, as a one-day festival that will be free to the public. Books with Pictures Eugene will host the event in the public areas of the 5th Street Public Market District, utilizing its covered and heated outdoor Market Alley to host 40 tables, with 40 tables for local artists, sponsors, and local coffee roasters...'cause with a name like CAFE, we can’t help but also celebrate Eugene’s rich coffee culture!

Additional events will be held in the Market Core courtyard, and workshops and panels will be held in conference rooms in the district. Located in the heart of downtown Eugene, our venue offers easy access to food, public restrooms, free and paid parking, and a variety of other locally owned businesses. Several nearby hotels offer rooms for out-of-town guests, too.

Are you a comics artist, comics writer, cartoonist, zinester, or small publisher?
Apply before August 23rd, 2025!