Arts & CultureMay
Toronto Comic Arts Festival (TCAF)
The indie comics event that creators fly across the world to attend.
When
May 9–10, 2026
Where
Toronto Reference Library
Area
Downtown
Cost
Free
Format
indoor
Attendance
20K+ visitors
Running Since
2003 (23 years)
Family Friendly
Yes
VT Insider Tip
The real magic is at the after-parties and satellite events at bars and galleries around Bloor. Check the unofficial schedule for evening programming.
About
TCAF is not your typical comic convention. Held at the Toronto Reference Library, it's focused on independent and literary comics, graphic novels, and zines. Free to attend, it attracts major cartoonists and small-press creators alike. It's widely regarded as one of the best comics events in the world.
What to Expect
Two floors of the Toronto Reference Library packed with creator tables, publisher booths, and programming rooms. Free admission, free panels. Very crowded on Saturday afternoon.
Pro Tips
Bring cash for indie purchases. Go early Saturday for the best selection of limited-edition prints and zines. The panel programming is genuinely excellent — check the schedule in advance.
Getting There
Toronto Reference Library at Yonge and Bloor. Bloor-Yonge subway station is steps away. Could not be easier to reach by TTC.