Free Comic Book Day 2017 – What Are You Waiting For?

It’s that time of the year again! May 6th, 2017 is International Free Comic Book Day, which means that comic book shops around the world will be treating their customers (or even just curious passers-by) to all sorts of goodies.

It’s become an annual tradition that the first Saturday of May is one of the best times of the year for readers, who will be able to pick up a select range of free promotional comic books. These include advance previews and classic issues of some of the best – and most diverse – characters on the printed page today.

This year sees the world of Archie represented with both Betty & Veronica as well as a Riverdale issue, which is timely given the huge success of the TV mystery/drama series. DC and Marvel have been keeping quiet over exactly what they’ll be giving to the fans other than Wonder Woman, Guardians of the Galaxy and Secret Empire, although it’s a fair bet that both publishers will be pulling out all the stops to impress their fans. 2000AD – whose track record regarding FCBD has been consistently brilliant – will be on the offensive once more, while Doctor Who is set to give fans even more adventures of the ultimate Time-Lord.

Joining them are both newcomers and established favourites. Bongo Comics returns with more fun from the house of The Simpsons and Futurama, while The Tick will take some beating when it comes to pure insane crimefighting comedy. Star Trek: The Next Generation, Lady Mechanika, manga series Attack on Titan, Rick and Morty, Legend of Zelda, Avatar, Barbie and many more titles will be available.

In other words, there’s something for everyone!

Of course, there are rules. You can’t just take every comic book that the shop has, only the ones specified as being Free Comic Book Day giveaways. In the interest of fairness, some stores may limit the number that you take, others may give away extras to people in cosplay and who also purchase graphic novels or trade paperbacks, while other stores may just hand you a “blind bag” of random titles instead of letting you choose. Some stores may hand out cookies to those in line, as well as free toys and games and discounts on purchases, but you never know unless you go!

Plus, if comic books mean something to you personally, please support the stores you visit. They need your support now more than ever, and just because you’re getting something for free doesn’t mean you should ignore everything else the store has on offer. There’s a lot to see in these stores, and plenty of amazing books, toys and other items on sale which may just grab your attention or fill that hole in your collection.

Free Comic Book Day is a perfect time to get into the world of comics if you’re a newcomer and a wonderful time for fans in general. If you feel like going in costume, go for it! Odds are, you won’t be the only one. So swing on by your local comic book store this Saturday, see what’s on offer and have some fun!