What to Bring to a Comic Fair

A comic fair needs more than comics and exhibitor tables. You will need clear table numbers, display panels, payment equipment, power access, refreshments and a way to move stock safely during setup. Plan supplies for exhibitors, visitors and volunteers separately, because the busiest period is often before the doors open. Use this checklist to buy or bring the practical items that are easy to overlook, from spare extension cords to chilled drinks and serving equipment.

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What to bring

Grouped the way you'd shop for it, with quantities.

Furniture

Tablesqty 32
Chairsqty 70
Bar stoolsqty 4
Clothes racksqty 4
Tableclothsqty 18
Folding countersqty 2
Storage cratesqty 12
Bollardsqty 8

Equipment

Display panelsqty 12
Card payment terminalsqty 2
Cash registersqty 2
Cash boxesqty 2
Extension cordsqty 10
Power stripsqty 10
Coolersqty 4
Kettlesqty 2
Coffee machinesqty 2
Label printers
Hand trucksqty 2
Tool casesqty 2

Tableware

Glassesqty 100
Coffee cupsqty 50
Platesqty 60
Cutlery setsqty 60
Pouring jugsqty 6
Serving plattersqty 8
Serving spoonsqty 8

Decorations

Comics fair bannersqty 4
Balloon bundlesqty 6
Table numbersqty 32
Directional signsqty 12
Sticky tackqty 6
Adhesive tapeqty 10
Rope rollsqty 4
Price holdersqty 40

Lighting

LED string lightsqty 8
LED lampsqty 12
Batteriesqty 24

Kitchen

Thermos flasksqty 6
Cutting boardsqty 3
Bread knivesqty 2
Scissorsqty 4
Tray trolleysqty 2
Cool bagsqty 6
Serving tongsqty 6

Cleaning

Vacuum cleaner
Mopqty 2
Bucketsqty 3
Broomqty 2
Dustpan and brushqty 2
Microfiber clothsqty 12
Hand soap dispensersqty 4

Catering

Groceries
- Coffee - 2 packs
- Tea - 4 boxes
- Sugar - 2 kilos
- Sweeteners - 2 boxes
- Milk - 8 liters
- Oat milk - 4 liters
- Lemon - 6 pieces
- Cola - 12 bottles
- Cola Zero - 12 bottles
- Orange lemonade - 8 bottles
- Sparkling water - 8 bottles
- Still water - 12 bottles
- Apple juice - 6 packs
- Ice cubes - 8 bags
- Stirrers - 300 pieces
- Paper napkins - 500 pieces
- Mini cheese rolls - 120 pieces
- Mini vegetable rolls - 80 pieces
- Mini pizza slices - 100 pieces
- Wraps - 40 pieces
- Hummus - 2 kilos
- Cream cheese - 1 kilo
- Young cheese - 2 kilos
- Turkey breast - 1 kilo
- Cucumber - 8 pieces
- Tomatoes - 3 kilos
- Lettuce - 6 heads
- Grapes - 4 kilos
- Apples - 40 pieces
- Bananas - 30 pieces
- Paprika chips - 8 bags
- Plain chips - 8 bags
- Snacks - 6 bags
- Cookies - 8 packs
- Brownies - 80 pieces
- Ketchup - 2 bottles
- Mayonnaise - 2 bottles
- Mustard - 2 jars
- Allergen labels - 1 pack
- Disposable gloves - 2 boxes
- Cling film - 2 rolls
- Aluminum foil - 2 rolls
- Baking paper - 2 rolls
- Paper towels - 8 rolls
- Trash bags - 60 pieces
- Toilet paper - 24 rolls
- Hand soap - 4 bottles
- All-purpose cleaner - 3 bottles
- Glass cleaner - 2 bottles
- Floor cleaner - 2 bottles
- Dish soap - 3 bottles
- Sponges - 12 pieces
- Paper cups - 100 pieces
- Paper Plates - 100 pieces
- Receipt rolls - 10 rolls
- Cash change - 1 set
- Pens - 30 pieces
- Permanent markers - 12 pieces
- Notepads - 10 pieces
- Visitor wristbands - 500 pieces
- Name stickers - 200 pieces
- Program flyers - 500 pieces
- Maps - 300 pieces

Tips

Allow at least one table number and one clear space marker for every exhibitor table, then print a few extras for last-minute layout changes. Keep the final exhibitor list beside the printed map.
Test every card terminal and cash register before shopping day, and bring one cash box per payment point. Pack charging cables and power strips with the payment equipment rather than leaving them at home.
For the refreshment area, provide roughly two to three drinks per person for the first hour and add extra cups, glasses and pouring jugs. Chill the drinks before opening instead of relying on coolers to do all the work.
Bring one extension cord and one power strip for each separate powered area, plus at least one spare of each. Tape or secure cables before visitors arrive so they do not cross walking routes.
Use storage crates for exhibitor materials and a hand truck for heavy boxes, display panels and folding counters. Keep the loading and unloading zone clear until all setup equipment is inside.

Frequently asked questions

What supplies do I need for a comic fair?: Plan for tables, chairs, tablecloths, display panels, table numbers, banners, payment equipment, power strips, extension cords, storage crates and refreshments. Add serving items such as cups, glasses, plates and cutlery for the number of people you expect.
How many drinks should I buy for a comic fair?: Start with two to three drinks per person for the first hour, then add more based on the planned opening time and catering arrangement. Buy enough cups or glasses for one serving per drink, plus around 10% extra for breakage and replacements.
How many card payment terminals do I need at a comic fair?: Use one card terminal for each active payment point, with one additional terminal if several exhibitors or sales desks may operate at the same time. Test all terminals at least one day before the fair and charge them again on the morning of the event.
When should I prepare the comic fair shopping list?: Complete the list at least one week before the fair, once the exhibitor layout and catering numbers are known. Buy non-perishable supplies several days ahead, and chill drinks and collect fresh catering items on the day before or the morning of the event.

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