Super Market: Countdown to Comiket 81

The most punk rock event in otakudom is upon us

'Tis the season to make and sell your own manga; there's no better place in the world to do so than Comiket's Winter Market. On December 29-31, Tokyo Big Sight will host the eighty-first Comiket event, drawing thousands of fans and artists alike. As you may already know, Comiket/Comic Market, the world's largest doujinshi event, is held twice a year in Tokyo and attracts over half a million people, a far cry from the 600 attendees at the initial event in 1975. Add in amazing costumes, rare works from both famed and unknown authors and 500,000 like-minded fans and you have a recipe for awesome.

Founded in 1975 by author and manga critic Yoshihiro Yonezawa and a small circle of friends, Comiket has exploded in popularity over the past thirty-six years, becoming something of a manga Mecca for the grassroots DIY doujinshi movement. In recent years, certain authors and circles have gained notoriety, prompting some fans to line up and camp out for days beforehand in an effort to secure their very own limited edition swag. So, if you're planning on going, consider investing in a good sleeping bag.

Sketchbook? Check. Energy drinks? Check. Excitement? If this one isn't checked, we have a problem. Fortunately, there's a solution - many circles like MomoReku, Lost Reality and E.N.Nach have released promotional videos to turn your anticipation up to an eleven. Between the incredible costumes, ultra-rare homemade manga and hundreds of thousands of other otaku in attendance, Comiket looks to be the highlight of the holiday season. Can't make it to Tokyo in time to buy your one-of-a-kind Sailor Moon/Harry Potter crossover? Draw it yourself and start getting ready for the Comiket 82; we'll be the first in line to buy one.

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