Mystic Multiples at L.A. Zine Fest 2024

We made it all the way out to Los Angeles this year. Mystic Multiples was slated to do this fest back in 2020, but of course that plan got scrapped, so this trip has been a long time coming.

In a huge art city, it’s no surprise that this fest is very popular. I think they had something like 150 vendors. Because of demand and limited venue space the fest organizers asked folks to consider opting for half tables to make room for larger number of total vendors. We jumped in line and made it work with a more curated selection of our Mystic inventory.

The fest rental venue was a bit small for the number of vendors, but worked well overall. The only obvious issue was the unexpected extreme heat in L.A. that weekend. I admit, coming from Houston, I was dreaming about temperate 75 degree days. I have spent my whole life listening to people talk about how the temperature and climate in L.A. / Southern California is “perfect,” so I was a little pissed off that my first time in the state included sweltering daytime temps in the 90s. I think it probably still felt cooler than Houston, but the UV feel was definitely turned up to 11. All that to say, that once the event got going it was a very hot and sweaty afternoon.

Side note: I think this fest would’ve also greatly benefited from a couple food trucks. The venue area is more industrial and there’s virtually no food options nearby. They had coffee and pastries, but no lunch-like options. We always bring snacks, but you know, nothing beats cooked food.

Think we drank a gallon of water each during the fest. Note our under-table jug above. Also my savior that day: a cold aluminum can of coconut water and a large limon pepino gatorade. If you are uninitiated: this is the best ever flavor of gatorade. Accept nothing less. My greatest regret was that I did not bring my mini electric hand fan. I think April through October festivals might now require these fans as part of our kit.

The turnout to this festival was amazing. At some point in the day the crowd started to exceed fire code regulations and folks had to be held back until others departed. I was blown away to see folks willing to line up outside—in the heat with no shade—and wait to be let into the festival. Makes an old zine girl tear up to see it. Seriously.

Also sidenote: Since the fest was indoors the organizers highly encouraged the use of face masks and people where really good about it despite the heat. Good on y’all for that, for real. Well done people.

Thank you Los Angeles! Thank you L.A. Zine Fest! We met so many sweet people and had a great experience. Very much appreciate the hard work of all the volunteers, organizers, and everyone who makes it happen. Bless y’all for keeping the zine spirit alive and blazing.