Registration Is Now Open!
80th Reuben Awards & NCS Conference
August 6-8, 2026 | Columbus, Ohio
Join 200+ cartoonists from across the medium for three days celebrating 80 years of the National Cartoonists Society with extraordinary programming, legendary speakers, and the Reuben Awards ceremony.
Conference Highlights
Jim Davis on building a sustainable creative studio and keeping beloved characters fresh across generations
Toon Talks – Five cartoonists, five big ideas, ten minutes each in our new TED-style format
Legal Panel – Three attorneys break down IP protection, AI contract clauses, and creator rights
Comic Lab Podcast Live with Dave Kellett and Brad Guigar
Billy Ireland Cartoon Library & Museum – Thursday programming with exclusive NCS archives access
✨Reuben Awards Ceremony – Friday evening celebration honoring this year’s honorees and nominees
NEW: Saturday Cartoonists Showcase
Stick around Saturday for a free public event at the Billy Ireland featuring:
- Public signing event with 60+ cartoonists (free tables for conference attendees!)
- Cathy Guisewite in conversation – celebrating 50 years
- Kids cartooning workshops
- PLUS! Private Goodies & Games afterparty for conference attendees hosted by CXC.
Learn more about the Cartoonists Showcase →
Registration Details
Full Conference: $370 early bird (members) | $490 (non-members)
Includes all programming, meals, and Reuben Awards banquet
Hotel: Renaissance Columbus Downtown | $159/night group rate
Booking information provided upon registration
Registration closes July 1, 2026
Not an NCS member? You’re welcome to attend! Conference registration is open to all.
Questions? Contact Jessica Halstead at ncs@nationalcartoonists.com
