International Comics Festival in Contern

The Contern International Comics Festival: a comics extravaganza not to be missed!

Every July, the village of Contern transforms itself into Luxembourg's comic capital with its International Comics Festival. This event is a must for fans of the 9ᵉ art and attracts over 8,000 visitors every year, from all over Luxembourg and neighboring regions. Seduced by the unique opportunity to complete their collections with rarer pieces and meet renowned authors in the world of comics.

In 2026, the festival will celebrate its 32ᵉ edition. Dates are yet to be specified, but it should take place on the 3rd weekend in July. The festive and convivial atmosphere of this festival is what makes this event so famous.

Stands and authors at the Contern Comics Festival

More than a hundred dealers' stands will be present at the Contern International Comics Festival, much to the delight of comic lovers.

A wide choice for comic collectors

Collectors can find their favorite comics here, or discover other comics of different styles and origins: American comics, mangas, fantasy comics, ... Of course, the great classics of Belgian, French, English and German comics are also presented. The choice is vast for collectors, who can also find figurines of their favorite characters at the corner of a stand.

Meet comic book authors

Visitors can also meet comic book authors from Belgium, France, Luxembourg, the UK and Germany, who will be signing their latest albums. Over fifty internationally renowned authors are on hand to present their work. Fans can also meet their favorite creators for signing sessions.

Entertainment for all at the Festival de la BD

During the Comic Festival, the streets of the village of Contern come alive with music and street performances. Children can also take part in workshops, such as creating Spirou hats or bracelets.

A Kidspass stamp hunt is also planned for the youngest visitors.

The Contern International Comics Festival welcomes some 6,000 visitors every year. In 2024, the Festival celebrated its thirtieth edition!

Practical info for the Contern Comics Festival

• Times: 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., with signing sessions ending at 6 p.m.
• Admission: €5 per adult, free for children under 12 and residents of several neighboring towns.
• Access: Free shuttle bus service from Sandweiler-Contern station, with parking available nearby.
• Catering: A number of stalls run by local associations will be available for you to sample local specialities in a convivial atmosphere.

For further information, visit the official festival website www.bdcontern.lu.

What about Luxembourg comics?

Origins and development of comics in Luxembourg

The art of comics in Luxembourg is not as well developed as in Belgium or France. However, over the last few decades, Luxembourg comics have experienced a veritable craze, driven by a generation of artists and publishers determined to promote their cultural identity.

In a multilingual country where Lëtzebuergesch, French and German coexist, comics have often been influenced by the works of their neighbors. But today, local artists are building their own style, in tune with Luxembourg's realities.

Characteristics of Luxembourg comics

Luxembourg comics tackle universal themes while remaining rooted in local particularities. Luxembourg's history, with its strategic role during the world wars and its evolution as a European financial center, is an inexhaustible source of inspiration. Humorous stories, social criticism and fantasy adventures are also popular genres.

A number of Luxembourg authors stand out on the local and international scene:

• Andy Genen is one of the best-known authors. He is renowned for his science-fiction stories and meticulous illustrations.
• Marc Angel: Another influential author who has made his mark on the scene with stories rooted in social themes.
• The duo Lucien Czuga and Roger Leiner are particularly famous for their "Superjhemp" series. Very popular, this comic strip offers a humorous and critical look at Luxembourg society.

Superjhemp the national hero

Superjhemp is a zany superhero, dressed in a jersey bearing the colors of the Luxembourg flag, who gorges himself on Kachkéis, a Luxembourg specialty. He embodies both clichés and national pride. With his caustic humor and allusions to the country's political and cultural realities, he has become a cult figure in Luxembourg. Created in 1988, this character drawn by Roger Leiner wants to save the "Luxusbuerg". Almost 30 comic books and a Superjhemp Retörns film released in 2018 are dedicated to him.

Other comic book festivals for comic book fans

Are you passionate about comics? Here are a few specialized fairs to get you away from Luxembourg.

Strasbulles in Strasbourg, France , is an excellent alternative for comics fans ineastern France. You'll discover a magnificent city, just 2.5 hours by car from Luxembourg. You can go there for the Strasbulles fair in September or October, or for the renowned Marches de Noêl.

Comic Con Brussels in Belgium offers a mix of comics, pop culture and cosplay. It's ideal for fans from all walks of life. And don't forget that Brussels is also famous for its Comic Book Museum. A great day out, just 2 hours 40 minutes by car from Luxembourg.

Although only a few hours away, the Angoulême International Comics Festival in France remains a world reference. Here you can discover the latest releases and meet renowned artists in the world of comics.

These events enrich the cultural offering for comics enthusiasts in the region and beyond. An excellent opportunity to discover the diversity and richness of this art form!

Website: https: //www.bdcontern.lu/