There’s only one thing in this world better than comic books, and that’s free comic books. So it’s no surprise that Free Comic Book Day 2014 is shaping up to be the biggest one ever. Held annually on the first Saturday in May, Free Comic Book Day is a tradition as old as time itself (actually it started in 2002). On this day, comic stores across North America give away specially printed comic books, invite guests for in-store signings, and generally partake in merrymaking and joviality (with a dash of carousal).
The holiday introduces new readers to the hobby, and brings old fans together to debate things like, Who was the best Flash? (hint: it’s Barry Allen), and, Who would win in a fight: Batman or Superman? (protip: it’s Batman).
This year, Free Comic Book Day is on Saturday, May 3rd – the day before Star Wars Day (May the 4th be with you). It’s sure to be a nerd-fest for the ages.
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Here are a few #FCBD events around Toronto…
Dr. Comics
This Kensington Market outfit is bringing in X-Men legend Chris Claremont, who co-created iconic characters such as Rogue, Mystique, Phoenix, Emma Frost, Jubilee, and Gambit during his 16-year tenure as writer of the Uncanny X-Men. His storyline, ‘Days of Future Past’, is being released as a major Hollywood production later this month, starring Hugh Jackman and Patrick Stewart.
Paradise Comics
Located at Yonge and Lawrence, Paradise Comics will be hosting several comic creators including Keith Grachow (Concrete Martians), Alex Perkins (Kill Shakespeare), Rob Vellone (The Hall of Justice), Arnold Trinidad, and Lisa Leblanc (Spent Pencils).
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Silver Snail
The Snail is celebrating its 38th anniversary by offering 20-30% off items at its second floor Yonge and Dundas location. Joining them will be special guests Dave Johnson (100 Bullets, Superman: Red Sun), Kalman Andrasofszky (Captain Canuck, X-Treme X-Men), Spent Pencils Studio, and members of the 501st legion (dressed up as Darth Vader and various Stormtroopers… getting a head start on Star Wars Day, no doubt).
The Beguiling
The Beguiling, located near Honest Ed’s on Markham Street, is hosting some of the creators of official FCBD titles for 2014. Ed Piskor (creator of Hip Hop Family Tree), Joe Ng (artist of Street Fighter), Tom Scioli (writer and artist of GI Joe vs. Transformers), and Chip Zdarsky (co-creator of Sex Criminals) will all be on-hand for signings and sketches.
Will you be hitting up one of these comic book stores for Free Comic Book Day? Let us know in the comments below or tweet us @ViewTheVibe.
