Family and Youth

Zine Fest 2026

  • December 19, 2026 | 1 pm–6 pm

Registration available in mid-October

A group of people lean in together to view and discuss an object.

TCA Zinefest at MCA Chicago, December 19, 2022.

Photo: Vivian Zamora

The Teen Creative Agency at the MCA is celebrating 14 years (and counting) of DIY publications! This event showcases the original artwork, activism, and social practice of Chicago-area youth and emerging adults, as captured in zine form.

TCA highlights teen ideas and perspectives in the museum space. Its members gather at the MCA from all over the Chicagoland area to collaboratively create public responses to relevant contemporary issues. In doing so, they build relationships alongside other cultural institutions, organizations, and professionals in Chicago’s vibrant art scene.

Several people browse a table filled with zines near a sign that reads Zine Mercadeo in a bright room with hanging planters
TCA Zinefest, 2022 Photo: Vivian Zamora

Funding

Major support for Learning programs at the MCA is provided by Crown Family Philanthropies.

Additional generous support is provided by the Friends of Edwin A. Bergman Fund, the Hulda B. & Maurice L. Rothschild Foundation, The Marshall Frankel Foundation, and The William Randolph Hearst Foundations.

Generous support for the Teen Creative Agency is provided by the Dr. Scholl Foundation, The LeRoy Neiman and Janet Byrne Neiman Foundation, and the Peoples Gas Community Fund at The Chicago Community Foundation.