Creators of all ages invited to imagine, draw & publish – one page at a time
Submitted
Noblesville Creates, in partnership with the Hamilton East Public Library, announces the return of its 13th annual Comic Book in a Day Challenge, taking place Jan. 16 and 17, 2026. Sponsored by Moonshot Games and Citizens State Bank, this beloved event invites creators of all ages and experience levels to turn big ideas into finished comic stories, often in just a single day.
Following the success of last year’s expanded format, Comic Book in a Day 2026 will once again offer separate virtual and in-person competitions, ensuring artists near and far can fully participate in the challenge.
A day of creation, collaboration & community
The in-person event will feature two divisions:
- Four-hour Youth Competition (up to age 12)
- Seven-hour Teen & Adult Competition (ages 13 and up)
Participants will develop an original comic from concept to completion, guided by professional artists and supported by a creative, welcoming community. Whether it’s a first comic or a seasoned creator’s latest experiment, Comic Book in a Day is designed to meet artists where they are and help them go further.
Learn from the pros
This year’s event will be hosted by Erik Lundorf and Victor Dandridge, both accomplished comic professionals with extensive experience coaching and teaching creators of all ages. Throughout the day, they’ll help contestants navigate creative roadblocks, share practical tips, and foster collaboration among participants.
Featured Artists and Judges Stuart Sayger, Gavin Smith, and Jackie Crofts will be on site all day, talking with contestants and visitors, demonstrating techniques, selling artwork and prints, and reviewing submissions at the end of the competition.
- Stuart Sayger is an internationally renowned comic artist whose work includes projects for LEGO Bionicle, DC Comics, IDW, Dynamite, and his creator-owned title Shiver in the Dark.
- Jackie Crofts, an Indianapolis-based artist, is the illustrator and co-creator of Nutmeg.
- Gavin Smith is an Indianapolis artist and writer whose credits include Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Godzilla, Star Trek: The Mirror War, Ghost in the Shell, Heavy Metal Magazine, and Dead Legends.
From sketch to shelf
Artwork created during both the in-person and online competitions will be scanned and compiled into a trade-paperback style comic anthology. Every registered contestant will receive a printed copy featuring their work once production is complete.
Not competing? Still come join the fun
Comic Book in a Day isn’t just for contestants. Visitors are encouraged to stop by during the in-person competition to watch creativity in action, meet and shop from featured artists, participate in comic-themed art activities, and soak in the energy of a room buzzing with imagination.
Event Details
Zoom International Competition
Friday, Jan. 16, 2026
All ages: Parental Guidance suggested
Designed for aspiring adult professionals around the world, the online competition takes place via Zoom from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., with story presentations beginning around 4:15 p.m.
For $60, contestants receive drawing supplies (if registered by Jan. 9), guidance and inspiration from featured artists, and a printed copy of their work in the Comic Book in a Day Anthology. Registrants may also use their own supplies or work digitally.
To register, click here.
Adult & Teen Division (In-Person)
Saturday, Jan. 17, 2026
Ignite Studio at the Fishers Library
Ages 13+
The seven-hour competition begins at 9 a.m. with a pep talk and rules overview. Contestants have until 4 p.m. to complete and submit up to eight pages, followed by presentations starting around 4:30 p.m.
Registration is $60 and includes supplies, artistic guidance, and a printed anthology.
To register, click here.
Youth Division
Saturday, Jan. 17, 2026
Ages 12 & Under
The four-hour youth competition runs from 10:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., with presentations beginning around 3 p.m. Participants may submit up to four pages.
Registration is $40 and includes supplies, guidance, and a printed anthology.
To register, click here.
Comic Book in a Day VIP Night
Friday, Jan. 16, 2026 | 7 to 9 p.m.
Ball State Fishers, 8626 E. 116th St.
Ages 21+
Celebrate with an exclusive VIP experience featuring nationally recognized comic artists and outstanding local creators. Guests will enjoy complimentary food and drinks, raffles, and behind-the-scenes conversations with industry professionals.
A special highlight of the evening is a Drink & Draw session with Emmy Award-winning artist Joe Wos, offering a relaxed, interactive opportunity to sketch, sip, and learn.
Proceeds support Noblesville Creates and year-round Comic Book in a Day programming.
To secure a ticket, click here.
Awards Ceremony
Wednesday, Jan. 22, 2026 | 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.
All Ages
Ignite Studio at the Fishers Library
Top awards from Comic Book in a Day will be presented during this free, public celebration. Judges will announce winners, showcase standout work, and recognize creative achievements from across all divisions.
Those unable to attend in person may watch via livestream on the Noblesville Creates Facebook page.
Comic Book in a Day Workshops
Leading up to the competitions, Noblesville Creates and the Hamilton East Public Library will host free workshops celebrating the art of comics. Participation in the Challenge is not required.
Thursday, Jan. 8, 2026
Instructor: Erik Lundorf
Comic Quick Tips – Build confidence and dive headfirst into starting your comic. Registration opens Dec. 24, 2025. Click here to register.
Tuesday, Jan. 13, 2026
Instructor: Stuart Sayger
How to Draw Convincing and Meaningful Worlds – Learn how environments elevate storytelling. Registration opens Dec. 29, 2025. Click here to register.
Thursday, Jan. 15, 2026
Instructor: Victor Dandridge
COMICS 101 – An introduction to comic narratives, art, and production. Registration opens Dec. 31, 2025. Click here to register.
To learn more, visit noblesvillecreates.org/comicbookinaday.
