Shoppers and comic-lovers are heading back to South Bank as inQ! doubles up for a whole weekend of queer comics and zines, bringing UK LGBTQIA+ creators together in a friendly, free festival that’s as much about community as it is about buying beautiful work.
Essential Takeaways
- When and where: inQ! runs Saturday 26 and Sunday 27 September 2026 at the London LGBTQ+ Community Centre, 10:30–17:30 each day.
- Free to attend: no tickets, just turn up and browse stalls stacked with comics, zines, prints and indie merch.
- Big-name and emerging artists: exhibitors include award-winners, social-media favourites and debut creators , think graphic novels, mini-comics and exclusive fair launches.
- Family-friendly vibe: organisers stress safety and welcome for all ages, with signings and a community table for DIY creators.
- Packed with extras: signing sessions, exclusive launches and a Community Table where creators can sell without stall fees.
Why inQ! feels like a celebration , and why that matters
If you’ve ever walked into a stall and felt the warm, slightly chaotic buzz of a small-press fair, you’ll recognise inQ!’s draw: it’s intimate, tactile and full of surprises. The event’s sensory pleasures are immediate , glossy prints, the smell of fresh ink, the rustle of zines , and organisers have leaned into that celebratory atmosphere by expanding to two days. According to the event listings, the move gives more creators time and visitors more chance to explore. For queer stories that don’t always get shelf space, a bigger fair equals more visibility and more sales, which matters for careers as well as community.
Who’s showing up , established names and new voices
The exhibitor list reads like a who’s who of UK queer small press and indie comics right now. You’ll find award winners and creators with mainstream credits alongside new voices launching work for the first time. That mix makes for a lively browsing experience: one minute you’re holding a glossy graphic novel, the next you’re leafing through a hand-stapled zine with a raw, immediate voice. The organisers have curated a range so collectors and casual visitors both leave with something they love.
What to expect on the day , signings, launches and the Community Table
inQ! isn’t just a shopping trip; it’s an opportunity to meet creators. The fair lists scheduled signings and promises more to come, so keep an eye on the programme if you have a particular artist in mind. There’s also a Community Table where creators can sell their work for free, which is a practical way to lower barriers for emerging makers. If you’re a creator, bring cash and business cards; if you’re a visitor, bring a tote and expect to discover one-off prints and launch editions you won’t find elsewhere.
Practical tips for visitors , how to make the most of the weekend
Go early on the day that suits you to avoid queues and grab limited-run items. Wear comfortable shoes , the South Bank setting is lovely but the fair is busy and you’ll be on your feet. Bring cash as some stalls favour it, though many accept cards. If you’re going with family, note the event is advertised as family-friendly, but check individual comics if you’re buying for children. Lastly, follow the fair’s Instagram for last-minute signings and exhibitor additions so you don’t miss anything special.
The community angle , why inQ! is more than a market
Organisers describe inQ! as voluntary and non-profit, driven by a desire to put queer comics centre stage and to create welcoming space. That ethos shows in practical choices: free entry, family-friendly programming, and a focus on helping creators connect directly with readers. There’s also an explicit anti-AI stance and a warm, tea-and-biscuits spirit that underscores the fair’s DIY heart. For anyone interested in the cultural life of queer London, the fair is a good reminder that grassroots events remain crucial places for storytelling and solidarity.
It’s a small change that can make every visit feel like a discovery , and a proper celebration of queer comics.
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