It’s Christmas in May for comic book fans this Saturday, May 6. Comic book shops around the world are participating in Free Comic Book Day (FCBD) an event where anyone of any age can drop by and get a comic for free! Here’s what you need to know to make the most out of your comic-filled Saturday.
What comics can I get?
A variety of comics for all age groups by a mix of major and independent publishers will be available. Some of the properties included in this year’s lineup are X-Men, Spider-man, Star Trek, Animal Crossing, Street Fighter, and Star Wars. The comic offerings are split into two tiers, Gold comics, and Silver comics. Every comic in the Gold category will be available at all retailers participating in FCBD. But, the supply of Silver comics varies by store as retailers are free to pick and choose which comics they want to offer. To see a full list of Gold and Silver comics, and read some previews, click here.
FCBD also has its own color-coded age rating system to help patrons find the best comic for them. Green, blue, and red icons can be found on the covers of all the free comic books. A green icon means the comic is suitable for all ages. Comics with a blue icon are recommended for readers 13 and older, while red comics are meant for readers 18 and older.
Where can I go to get some free comics?
Here are some local comic book shops that are participating in FCBD this year. If you are not local you can find other participating retailers by using FCBD’s official store locator.
Vault of Midnight
95A Monroe Center St. NW, Grand Rapids
Hours: 11 a.m. – 10 p.m.
Free comics will be available until the store closes, but their special FCBD event with vendors, special guests, tent sales, cosplay, and music will only run until 5 p.m. Free comics are limited to five per person. More information on the event can be found here.
Tardy’s Collector’s Corner
2009 Eastern Ave. SE, Grand Rapids
Hours: 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Free comics are limited to five per person and most other products in the store are 20% off. More details can be found here.
The Comic Signal
4318 Plainfield Ave., Suite H, Grand Rapids
Hours: 11 a.m. – 9 p.m.
You can find a full list of the free comics they will be offering here.
Argos Comics & Used Book Shop
1405 Robinson Rd. SE, Grand Rapids
Hours: 11 a.m. – 6 p.m.
Along with free comics, they are also selling long box comics for $1 and have sales on new comics. More details can be found here.
Rookies Sportcards Plus
106 W Main St., Lowell
Hours: 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Free comics are limited to three per person. There will also be an event with cosplay, special guests, giveaways, and sales. More information can be found here.
Happy reading!
