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That strange little stretch of the calendar between summer and autumn has always been one of my favorite times of the year. You can still get a warm afternoon, but suddenly there are cooler nights, football starts creeping back into conversations, pumpkin everything begins showing up and people start thinking about flannel again.

Five years ago, the Streetz Artz Alliance and Soundgrowler Brewing Co. brought together comic artists, collectors, cosplayers and local makers for a different kind of pop culture event in Tinley Park. On Saturday, Aug. 22, the market returns for its fifth year with its largest mix yet of comics, original art, collectibles, gaming, cosplay, handmade goods and convention-inspired creations.

Collectors know that the thrill isn't just about finding something rare—it's about the hunt. Whether it's discovering a first-print comic book, uncovering a long-sought vinyl record, completing a trading card deck, or meeting the artist behind a favorite illustration, every collection has a story.

Whether you're searching for a rare comic book, flipping through crates of vinyl, chasing that elusive trading card, or discovering original artwork from local creators, the hunt begins Saturday, August 1, as the second annual Comics, Cards & Vinyl Market returns to Noon Whistle Brewing from 12:00 p.m. to 5:00 p.m.