Comic-Con, Renaissance Fair, to join forces at Archdale library

G-Man series graphic novel author
Chris Gairrusso signs copiesof his books
at last year’s Comic-Con

ARCHDALE – Get ready for a one-of-a-kind adventure as the third annual Randolph County Public Libraries Youth Services Comic-Con moves to the Archdale Public Library, and teams up with a Renaissance Fair for an epic outdoor celebration of creativity, fantasy and fun, 1-5 p.m. Saturday, May 17.

The all-ages, family-friendly event will feature 25 comic book authors, illustrators and other creators who will demonstrate their techniques and display their work, which will be available for purchase.

Booths will include original art, rare comics, toys, books, retro video games and other merchandise. Participants can join in activities such as special effects makeup demos, trivia games, a themed selfie station and a caricature station. 

At the same time, the Middle Ages will come to life at the Renaissance Fair. Booths will feature handmade jewelry, ceramics, resin art, gem trees, and baked goods. Activities will include crafts, juggling demonstrations throughout the day, fantasy-themed costumes with photo-ops galore, and a costume contest. Ruff Love Rescue will be present with adoptable rescue dogs.

The library will be open special hours to coincide with the event. The schedule:

• 1 p.m.: Library and vendor booths open.
• 2 p.m.: Comic trivia with prizes.
• 3 p.m.: Interactive storytime for all ages.
• 4 p.m.: Costume contest with prizes.
• 5 p.m.: Library closes and vendor booths wrap up.

 As of this writing, artists, authors and others participating this year include: Astro Rose, author/artist; Micki Bare, middle-grades author; Beardy Weirdy’s Comics and Toys; Blink on the Street, ceramics; Braids of Yarrow, jewelry; Caricatures by Rodney Bennett; Centfont’s Stuff, jewelry; Clay by Kelly, clay earrings and accessories; K.S. Harvin, author; Healy Crafts, jewelry, gem trees and other items; Heart Shine Studios, art and jewelry; Herndon’s Homestead, sourdough baked goods; J&M Bakehouse, baked goods and pastries; Jamie’s Jewelry and More; A.D. Lombardo, books, bookmarks and journals; LimeLife by Alcone and Jensfk, makeup and face painting; Odyssey Comics, author/artist; Michael Roberti, author; Rocks Unlimited, jewelry and stones; Gene Shanks, comic book author/artist; Snailz Art, art; sparkle-series, handmade jewelry; The Bubbles Boutique, jewelry and 3D printed items; T-Rex Comics, comics and toys.

Rain date for the event is Saturday, May 24, 2-6 pm.

 The Archdale library is located at 10433 S. Main Street. For more information, call 336-431-3811.