The Small Press Expo is the preeminent showcase for the exhibition of independent comics, graphic novels, and cartooning. SPX features over 500 creators, 270 exhibitor tables, and more than 20 programs to entertain, enlighten, and introduce attendees to the world of independent & small press comics and graphic novels.
The 2025 festival takes place Saturday Sept 13th, 11a-7p & Sunday Sept 14th, 12p-6p, at the Bethesda North Marriott Hotel & Conference Center.
You may pick up your admission badge early on Friday Sept 12th from 4p-8p on the lower level of the conference center, near the north parking deck entrance.
Special Guests, Exhibitor List, and Programming
The SPX site will be updated with all guests, exhibitors, and programming 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.
