Enniskillen Comic Fest is back for another year, bringing a weekend of superheroes, sketches, and storytelling to the heart of Fermanagh. Taking place on Friday 7th and Saturday 8th June 2025 at St Macartin’s Cathedral Hall, the festival promises a fun, free celebration of comic book culture for fans of all ages.
The man behind the fest, Paul Trimble, is no stranger to the world of comics. A lifelong reader who started collecting long before he could even read them himself, Paul opened his own comic shop in Banbridge back in the 1980s and has been a passionate advocate for the medium ever since. With experience as a writer, retailer, and now event organiser, Paul brings decades of comic book enthusiasm to Enniskillen Comic Fest.
We got in touch with Paul to get the inside scoop on what’s in store for this year’s event — here’s what he had to say:
Q&A with Paul Trimble, Chair of Enniskillen Comic Fest
How long has Enniskillen Comic Fest been running?
The Enniskillen Comic Fest launched in 2016 and has run every year since — except for 2020 and 2021, due to the pandemic.
How did it first get started, and what inspired it?
We were inspired by the 2D Festival in Derry, which included school workshops before opening to the public. I loved how they were engaging the next generation of comic readers — and creators! We thought, if they can do it, why can’t we? After a few hurdles and a lot of hard work, Comic Fest was born.
How long have you been involved in the comic world?
I’ve been reading comics since before I could even read — my dad used to read them to me. In the 1980s, I travelled annually to comic conventions in London, Birmingham, and Glasgow, and in 1985 I opened my own comic shop in Banbridge. I’ve also written a newspaper strip and had a story published just last year. Comics have been a lifelong passion.
Who can we expect to see at this year’s event?
We’ve got a fantastic lineup!
- Garth Ennis – creator of Preacher and The Boys
- John Wagner – legendary co-creator of Judge Dredd
- Laura Howell – Beano artist behind Minnie The Minx
- Local creators including Kevin McHugh, launching a new book, and Mark Reihill, cover illustrator for Starburst Magazine
There are dozens more, and you can find the full guest list on our Facebook and Instagram pages.
Any special events or highlights planned for 2025?
Yes! We’re marking the 50th Anniversary of Battle, one of the most important British comics, and a precursor to 2000 AD. Expect interview panels, exclusive merchandise, and plenty of nostalgia.
Where and when is the event, and do people need tickets?
Comic Fest takes place at St Macartin’s Cathedral Hall in Enniskillen on 7th and 8th June 2025.
Admission is completely free, and everyone is welcome!
A Weekend Not to Miss
This year’s Comic Fest is shaping up to be one of the best yet, packed with creators, panels, merchandise, and community spirit. Whether you’re a seasoned collector, a curious newcomer, or just looking for a fun family day out, this free festival has something for everyone.
So grab your cape, call your crew, and head to Enniskillen Comic Fest on the 7th and 8th of June — you won’t want to miss it.
