by croatiaweek
April 11, 2026
in
ZAGREB, 11 April 2026 – Zagreb will once again become the centre of the comic book world as the 29th International Comic Festival Crtani romani šou (Zagreb Comic Con) takes place from 17 to 19 April.
This year’s edition marks a significant shift as the festival moves to the Academy of Fine Arts in Zagreb, placing the event firmly at the heart of the city’s visual arts scene and adding a new cultural dimension to the long-running festival.
Over three days, visitors can expect a packed programme featuring leading Croatian and international comic creators, exhibitions, workshops, new releases and a variety of accompanying events. Entry to all programmes is free, making the festival accessible to a wide audience.
International stars arrive in Zagreb
The 2026 edition will host a number of prominent names from the global comic scene.
Among them is Irish artist Declan Shalvey, known for his work with Marvel and DC, alongside Spanish illustrator Fernando Dagnino, recognised for series including Blade Runner.
Declan Shalvey
Blade Runner 2
French writer Jean-Pierre Pécau, creator of the popular series The Secret History, will also attend, as will Italian artist Michele Rubini, a long-time collaborator with Sergio Bonelli Editore.
Croatia will be represented by internationally acclaimed author Goran Delić, whose cult series Smogy Boy returns this year in a new edition.
The line-up also includes German duo Peter Eickmeyer and Gabriele von Borstel, known for graphic adaptations of literary classics, American editor and producer Dirk Wood, and artist Mirko Čolak, who has built a notable career in the US market.
Regional representation will be strengthened by Tome Trajkov and a wide range of Croatian authors who continue to shape the local comic scene.
Exhibitions and new releases
The exhibition programme further underlines the festival’s cultural importance. At Gallery 112, visitors will be able to view original works by emerging Croatian artist Fran Strukan.
Within the Academy itself, exhibitions will include Croatian Comics for Children, dedicated to Robert Bob Solanović, as well as the traditional display of award-winning entries from the Young Lion 2026 competition, which encourages creativity among younger generations.
Festival guests will also present and sign new editions, including the graphic novel adaptation of All Quiet on the Western Front by Eickmeyer and von Borstel, a new Smogy Boy release by Delić, the latest Blade Runner instalment by Dagnino, and a new continuation of The Secret History by Pécau.
Workshops and community spirit
A strong educational focus remains central to the festival. Workshops in comic and manga drawing will be led by Fani Gluić, offering participants hands-on experience in character development, emotion and visual storytelling.
Visitors can also take part in the popular comic quiz, which combines knowledge, entertainment and community engagement.
A festival with nearly three decades of tradition
After nearly 30 years of continuous growth, the Zagreb Comic Con has firmly established itself as one of the region’s leading comic festivals.
Fernando Dagnino
It continues to serve as a meeting point for generations of artists, fans and newcomers alike.