It’s time to don your capes, dust off the superhero suits, and ready your masks. Comic Gong, presented by Wollongong City Libraries, is making a triumphant return on Saturday 14 May and we hope to see you there!
It’s been a long and lonely two years since we were able to invite everyone to join in the fun and celebrate our shared love of comics, graphic novels and pop-culture. So, we’re very excited to share that Wollongong’s original pop-culture festival is returning to Wollongong with loads of activities, the Illawarra Mercury Cosplay Competition, artist stalls, games and performances to enjoy.
Happening Saturday 14 May from 10am-4pm, Comic Gong will be held over five locations: Wollongong Library, Wollongong Town Hall, the Art Gallery, the Arts Precinct and the Lower Crown Street Mall (NEW!).
Comic Gong is a free, family-friendly event, and there’s no need to book a ticket to attend. The event program is available on the , and copies can be picked up at the event on the day.
Wollongong City Lord Mayor Councillor Gordon Bradbery AM said that this year’s event is set to bring back everything you love about Comic Gong.
“Comic Gong is such a well-loved community event that has a strong local following. Wollongong Council and Wollongong City Libraries is really pleased to be able to offer this great, free event once more,” Cr Bradbery said.
“This year we’re going back to our roots by bringing back some true fan-favourite events, activities and performances. The Illawarra Mercury Cosplay Competition is back at the Wollongong Art Gallery which is the best place to visit to see the best of the best costumes and cosplay.
“Over in the Arts Precinct there will be a Superhero stunt show by Action Reaction, the Batmobile, music by the Con Artists, archery and sword-play demonstrations by Battlecry LARP.
“The Wollongong Library features a number of great family-friendly activities including Lego Robots, pinball machines, arcade games, board games, face painting and children’s activities. Over at the Wollongong Town Hall, we will once again welcome trade stalls and artists to sell their wares and showcase their work.”
For the first time ever, Comic Gong will spread out to the Crown Street Mall with even more trade stalls and artists as well as an “After Party” featuring DJ Sandeux and from 3.30-5.30pm. There’s no need to book to attend the After Party, everyone’s welcome to enjoy the music.
“Comic Gong is truly an event that offers something for everyone and it’s a fun inclusive day whether you’re a die-hard comic book fan or not! I highly encourage you to make a day of it and enjoy the fun and festivities here in the Wollongong CBD,” Cr Bradbery said.
The details – Comic Gong
WHEN: Saturday 14 May, 10am-4pm
WHERE: Wollongong Library, Wollongong Town Hall, Arts Gallery, Arts Precinct & Crown Street Mall.
COST: Free! Download the .
Illawarra Mercury Cosplay Competitions
WHERE: Wollongong Art Gallery, Bluescope Gallery
HOW TO REGISTER: Registrations open one hour before the competition round starts. Registration desk is located at the front of the Art Gallery. Competition categories include:
- 11am: 0-12 years
- 12noon: 12-17 years
- 1pm: Cosplay Parade (starts outside the Art Gallery)
- 2.30pm: 18+ years
- 3.15pm: Groups
Comic Gong After Party
WHEN: Saturday 14 May, 3.30-5.30pm
WHERE: Upper Crown Street Mall, Wollongong
Featuring DJ Sandeux and the , join us for music, dancing, fantastic costumes and fun as we say goodbye to another year of Comic Gong.
COST: Free! No need to book, just show up.
