Comic Geek Out
Saturday, July 27, 2024, 1:00 – 5:00 pm
Yankee Clipper Branch – 2025 Leonard NE
Discover your inner hero at the library’s annual comic event. Celebrate the comic books you love and geek out on your favorite fandom. Join us for hands-on activities, snacks, free books, a comic workshop, and other fun events designed for all ages.
Attendees can take home a free 2024 Comic Geek Out poster designed by Cody Coppernoll and enjoy free snacks and refreshments while supplies last. Events take place both indoors and outside at the Yankee Clipper Branch. All activities will be moved indoors in case of inclement weather.
Special Guest
Meet and Greet with Voice Actor Jason Liebrecht
2:00 – 3:00 pm
Enjoy a Q&A with voice actor Jason Liebrecht.
Liebrecht voices a number of English versions of Japanese anime series and video games including; Dragon Ball Z, Attack on Titan, and My Hero Academia. Explore what it is like to work as a voice actor, learn about Jason Liebrecht’s favorite voice work, and get an autograph.
Schedule
Comic Strip Workshop
1:00 – 2:00 pm
Learn how to create your own comic strip! Find out how to design panels, what gutters are, and how to develop your story. Materials will be provided at the event.
From Marston to The Marvels: The Changing Roles of Women in Comics
1:00 – 2:00 pm
Comics are now featuring more complex and well-rounded female characters. These new portrayals have invited women into the male-dominated world of comics fandom.
Explore how representations of female characters have evolved and learn about the ongoing movement toward more authentic depictions of women in comic books.
Dragon Ball Food
3:00 – 4:00 pm
Many of the character names in Dragon Ball are inspired by food!
Learn about the cultural significance of these food-based names from Derek Padula, Dragon Ball Scholar and author. Food samples are available while supplies last.
Cosplay Contest
4:00 – 5:00 pm
Showcase your amazing cosplay at Comic Geek Out 2024 to win prizes! Visiting professional cosplayers and GRPL staff will judge their favorite cosplay outfits, and winners will take home prizes.
Cosplay Guidelines
- All costumes should provide enough coverage to be worn in public and be appropriate for a family-friendly event.
- No flash, fire, explosives, fireworks, smoke (including incense), fog (including dry ice), or incendiary devices, such as caps or smokers, will be allowed.
- No chemicals, powders, thrown glitter, or confetti will be allowed.
- If weapons are part of your costume, they should comply with the following:
- No sharp swords or knives or actual working weapons are allowed. Wood, rattan, bamboo, plastic, cardboard, foam, or rubber weapons are acceptable.
- Fake firearms are not allowed, even if they follow compliance with authorities and have a fluorescent orange plug in the muzzle.
- Inspection of all weapons will be required prior to the event, regardless of material. Contestants are responsible for their own weapons; this includes carrying them throughout the event.
- No profanity will be allowed during the event. This includes messages on signs or clothes.
Ongoing
Artists Alley
1:00 – 5:00 pm
Meet talented local artists and browse their exceptional artworks that are available for sale during the event.
Comic Crafts & Trivia
1:00 – 5:00 pm
Create comic crafts led by GRPL librarians and special guests. Enjoy comic-centric trivia and hands-on art-making activities designed for all ages. Materials are free and available while supplies last.
Professional Cosplayers Meet & Greet
1:00 – 5:00 pm
Meet your favorite characters from multiple franchises and pose for a photo with them at our selfie stations.
Tabletop Extravaganza
1:00 – 5:00 pm
Our friends at Vault of Midnight have donated a selection of tabletop games to play while attending the event. Join your friends, family, or GRPL staff on a few tabletop games.
Vault of Midnight Drop-in
1:00 – 5:00 pm
Join the Vault of Midnight staff at their table to chat about recommendations and geek out on the wide selection of comics, mangas, and graphic novels available for purchase.
Sponsors
Special thanks to the Grand Rapids Public Library Foundation.
