Chambéry International Comics Festival
The historic Savoie comics festival since 1977
About Chambéry BD
Chambéry International Comics Festival: nearly fifty years of passion
Founded in 1977 by the Chambéry BD association, the Chambéry International Comics Festival is one of the four largest comics festivals in France. The first edition, modest, was held outdoors on Place Saint-Léger, in the heart of the old town of Chambéry, and brought together about ten authors. Since then, the festival has continued to grow to become a major event in the ninth art.
From Place Saint-Léger to Savoiexpo
After its early years in the historic center of Chambéry, the festival moved in 1990 to the Savoiexpo site, the exhibition center of Chambéry, to accommodate an ever-growing audience. This spacious and modern setting allows for large exhibition spaces, dozens of signing booths, specialized bookstores, and conference areas, offering visitors a complete immersion in the world of comics.
More than sixty authors at each edition
The festival hosts more than 60 authors and illustrators from France and abroad each year. Scriptwriters, artists, colorists, and publishers meet in Chambéry for a weekend of privileged encounters with the public. The signing sessions, free and open to all, are at the heart of the event and allow readers to interact directly with their favorite artists.
Exhibitions and prestigious awards
Beyond signings, the festival offers numerous themed exhibitions dedicated to authors, series, or trends in comics. Conferences, round tables, and drawing workshops complete the program, making the festival a place for reflection and discovery around the ninth art. The festival also awards prizes recognizing the best works of the year.
The 50th edition in 2026: a historic anniversary
The year 2026 will mark an exceptional milestone in the festival's history with its 50th edition. This anniversary will be an opportunity to celebrate nearly half a century of passion for comics in Chambéry, with an exceptional program and tributes to the great figures who have shaped the history of the festival and the ninth art.
A festival rooted in the Savoyard cultural fabric
The Chambéry International Comics Festival is part of a long tradition of promoting comics in Savoie. Throughout the year, the Chambéry BD association carries out cultural mediation activities, organizes traveling exhibitions, and works in schools and media libraries in the department. The festival thus contributes to the cultural and tourist dynamism of Chambéry and Savoie.
Chambéry BD — edition 2026
The Chambéry International Comic Strip Festival celebrates its 50th edition from Friday, October 2 to Sunday, October 4, 2026, at Savoiexpo. For this historic anniversary of one of France's oldest comic strip festivals, The Smurfs are the guests of honor. More than 60 authors and illustrators are expected for a weekend of signings, exhibitions, and meetings.
50th Edition — A Historic Anniversary
In 2026, the Chambéry International Comic Strip Festival celebrates its 50th edition, an exceptional milestone for France's second oldest comic strip festival after Angoulême. From Friday, October 2 to Sunday, October 4, 2026, Savoiexpo (Chambéry Exhibition Center) will host a special program celebrating half a century of passion for the ninth art.
The Smurfs, Guests of Honor
To mark this anniversary, the famous Smurfs are being honored. The little blue characters, who have become a comic strip icon across generations, will be the subject of dedicated exhibitions and activities throughout the weekend.
On the Program
The festival brings together more than 60 authors and illustrators from France and abroad, for signing sessions, special meetings with the public, exhibitions delving into the graphic universe of the guests, as well as shows and activities for the whole family. A significant place is given to Franco-Belgian comics, manga, and comics. Nearly 15,000 visitors are expected over the three days.
Highlights Chambéry BD 2026
- 50th anniversary edition — half a century of festival
- The Smurfs, guests of honor 2026
- More than 60 authors and illustrators present
- Free signings, exhibitions, and activities for the whole family
Prices Chambéry BD 2026
Practical information — Chambéry BD
Practical Information
Access
Address: Savoiexpo, 1725 Avenue du Grand Ariétaz, 73000 Chambéry.
By car: From the A43 motorway, take the Chambéry-Nord exit. Savoiexpo is located on the edge of the Chamnord shopping area, with a large free car park.
By bus: Synchro Bus network, lines serving Savoiexpo from the city center of Chambéry.
By train: Chambéry-Challes-les-Eaux station, then bus or taxi to Savoiexpo (approx. 10 min).
Opening Hours
Friday: 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. Saturday and Sunday: 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Prices
Ticket prices will be announced on the official website chamberybd.fr before each edition.
Contact
Chambéry BD Association
Official website: chamberybd.fr
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Where does it take place — Chambéry BD
Savoiexpo - Parc des Expositions de Chambéry
1725 Avenue du Grand Ariétaz, 73000 Chambéry