Small Press Expo 2026 Sept 12th & 13th

The Small Press Expo is the preeminent showcase for the exhibition of independent comics, graphic novels, and cartooning. SPX features 450 creators, 270 exhibitor tables, more than 20 programs, and 18 workshops to entertain, enlighten, and introduce attendees to the world of independent & small press comics and graphic novels.

The 2026 festival takes place Saturday Sept 12th, 11a-7p & Sunday Sept 13th, 12p-6p, at the Bethesda North Marriott Hotel & Conference Center.

You may pick up your admission badge early on Friday Sept 11th from 4p-8p on the lower level of the conference center, near the north parking deck entrance. On Sat or Sun, pick up your badge from the Admissions tables outside the ballroom.

Special Guests, Exhibitor List, and Programming

The SPX site will be updated with all special guests, exhibitors, programming, and workshops throughout July & August. You can also sign up for our newsletter, or follow on Facebook or Instagram for updates.

Vote for the Ignatz Awards

The prestigious Ignatz Awards are held every year at SPX recognizing outstanding achievement in comics and cartooning. Voting is now digital! Once nominees are announced in mid-August, request a ballot on the SPX site. Winners will be announced at SPX during the Ignatz Awards Ceremony, on Saturday at 9p in the White Oak Room of the Bethesda North Marriott Hotel and Conference Center.

Transportation options

For easy access to SPX via the DC Metro, go to the North Bethesda stop on the Red Line, about 1 block from the conference center.

Parking options

There is a FREE WEEKEND parking garage 1 block East from the North Bethesda Metro stop at the corner of Chapman and Marinelli, about a 4 minute walk to the hotel.

There is a parking garage behind the hotel with hourly or full day rates. Parking validation is not available for hotel parking.

More parking details are available on our site.