6 Reasons Why Today Is the Perfect Day to Get Into Comic Books
Be it makeup samples or free pizza, there’s nothing better than a freebie. And for comics fans, the most exciting day of the year is here today (May 7): Free Comic Book Day. To celebrate, some stores are staying open from the crack of dawn until late at night. Not sure where to head? Check out this handy-dandy Comic Shop Locator.
But what exactly does Free Comic Book Day entail, and why is it so amazing (even for those who aren't total comics fans — yet)? We break it down:
1/6Free Comics!
They wouldn’t call it Free Comic Book Day and not give out free comics! But which comics are free? You can’t just walk in and take what you like off the shelf (unfortunately). Each major comics publisher puts out a special comic free for the day, featuring the hottest stories, characters, and creators. They’re usually a great first comic, intended to bring in readers who are brand new to the whole thing. Just pick up what looks good and jump in!
2/6Amazing Sales
While the comics are free to you, they’re not free to the shops. Shops pay for the books they give away, and as a result, put up great sales to make back some money on Free Comic Book Day. So consider this the perfect opportunity to add to your collection of books, statues, or gear — or start a whole new collection. If you need recommendations on what to try out, here’s some help.
3/6Meeting Cool Creators
Most comic shops make the day into a miniature convention, complete with special guests. It’s likely that your local comic shop will have a nearby artist, writer, or cartoonist who is there to sign their work, take pics, and even do commissioned sketches. It’s fun to meet who makes the books you love, or familiarize yourself with a new artist.
4/6Special Events
Raffles, movie viewings, parties, art shows — these are just a few of the great events that comic shops throw for Free Comic Book Day. Come prepared with a fully charged phone battery and an empty tote bag: Between prizes, games, and epic sights to see, you’ll want to take it all home with you. (OK, so maybe you can’t physically take all of the things you see home with you…but that’s what Instagram’s for, right?)
5/6Spandex Style
No matter what else we have going on in the store every Free Comic Book Day, the stars of the show are always the cosplayers. These locals wake up at the crack of dawn to don their Supersuits and strap on their Batgirl cowls. They hang out at the shop all day, taking pictures with guests and recreating your favorite comic book poses. The best part? They want you to cosplay with them! Drag out your Harley Quinn outfit from last Halloween, or rough up some jeans and a vest to be an epic Michonne from The Walking Dead.
6/6Awesome After-Parties
Some Free Comic Book Day festivities continue into the night, with after-parties at local restaurants and event halls. After being on your feet and shopping ‘til you drop, nothing’s better than relaxing with some junk food and friends. No after-party at your local shop? Make your own: Get takeout and camp out in the living room with some friends while you all dig through your new treasures and swap comics. Reading party!
