Festival des Courants BD

Comic strips celebrate in the heart of the Amboise vineyards

Every first weekend of July, the peaceful village of Saint-Ouen-les-Vignes, nestled among the vineyards a few kilometers north of Amboise, transforms into the comic strip capital of Touraine. The Festival des Courants BD, driven for over fifteen years by the association Prise d'Assos, brings together authors, publishers, booksellers, and comic strip enthusiasts in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere, far from the big Parisian shows.

About thirty authors to meet

Each edition hosts around thirty authors — illustrators, scriptwriters, colorists — representing the full diversity of contemporary comic strips. Children's comics, adult comics, science fiction, documentary, humor, and manga: all genres are represented, offering visitors the opportunity to meet their favorite authors, get personalized dedications, and discuss the creative process. The festival awards three "Coup de cœur" prizes and an encouragement prize to invited authors each year.

Workshops, concerts, and activities for everyone

Beyond meeting authors, the Festival des Courants BD offers a rich program of activities for all ages. Children can learn to draw through creative workshops led by professional authors. Concerts liven up the evenings, adding a festive dimension to the event. The specialized bookstores Bédélire, G-Trouvetou, and Kolkobook (specializing in used and collectible comics) handle the sale of new albums, rarities, and merchandise.

A free and friendly festival

One of the strengths of the Festival des Courants BD is its free admission, making it accessible to all audiences. A bar and food service, managed by the Saint-Ouen-les-Vignes festival committee, allow visitors to eat on-site in a warm, village-like atmosphere. The festival benefits from the support of the City of Amboise and the community of communes, confirming its place in the local cultural landscape.