Calling all comic book fans and enthusiasts. Free Comic Book Day 2024 is just around the corner, and the western suburbs are loaded with amazing local comic shops that you won't want to miss. From graphic novels and flip books to some of the biggest names in comics — DC Comics, Dark Horse Comics, Marvel and more— this day is for you to explore the wonderful world of comics.

For those who are unfamiliar, Free Comic Book Day is an annual event where participating comic book shops give away specially printed comic books, including special editions of notable titles, to anyone who visits their store. It's a day to celebrate the art of comic books and the stories they tell, while also supporting local comic shops. In this blog post, we'll explore some of the best comic book shops in the area and highlight the importance of supporting local businesses. So if you're ready to snag some free comics and show your love for your favorite cartoons and characters, join us as we take a sneak peek at what Free Comic Book Day 2024 has in store for you!

Free Comic Book Day (FCBD) is an annual event that takes place on the first Saturday of May, with this year's event falling on Saturday, May 4. It is an annual promotional effort where participating stores around the world offer a selection of free comic books to customers to promote the comic book industry and encourage people to explore the world of comics. The event was first introduced in 2002 by organizers from comic book retailer Joe Field, who wanted to create a way to draw new readers to the medium.

Since its inception, FCBD has grown in popularity and now attracts millions of comic book fans every year. The event features a wide range of comics, from titles based on popular movie and TV franchises to new and independent titles. In addition to free comics, many comic book shops also host events such as signings, cosplay contests, and workshops, making FCBD a fun and interactive experience for fans of all ages.

One of the main reasons why FCBD is so important is because it provides an opportunity for comic book shops to connect with new customers and promote the industry. With the rise of digital comics and online retailers, brick-and-mortar comic book shops have faced increasing competition in recent years. FCBD gives these shops a chance to showcase their offerings and attract new customers, helping to keep the industry alive and thriving.

Free Comic Book Day is a celebration of the comic book medium and the community that surrounds it. It provides a fun and accessible way for people to explore the world of comics and discover new titles while also supporting local comic book shops and the industry as a whole.

As Free Comic Book Day 2024 approaches, comic book fans are eagerly anticipating the latest offerings from their favorite publishers. Last year's selection of free comics includes a diverse range of titles, from established franchises to up-and-coming independent creators. Some of the top picks for Free Comic Book Day 2023 include "Spider-Man: The New Adventures," "Saga: The Next Chapter," and "Stranger Things: The Experiment."

"Spider-Man: The New Adventures" is a highly anticipated title that picks up where the classic Marvel Comics series left off. The story follows Peter Parker as he faces new challenges and villains while also exploring new aspects of his personal life. Written by acclaimed author Brian Michael Bendis, "Spider-Man: The New Adventures" promises to be an exciting and action-packed addition to the Spider-Man mythos.

Another standout title from last year's Free Comic Book Day is "Saga: The Next Chapter." This popular Image Comics series has won critical acclaim for its engaging characters, unique setting, and intricate storytelling. The free comic offers a glimpse into the next phase of the story as the central characters continue their intergalactic journey and face new obstacles. With its blend of science fiction, fantasy, and drama, "Saga" is a must-read for comic book fans looking for something different and innovative.

This year is sure to have even more great titles!

One Stop Comics is a popular comic book store in Oak Park, Illinois, serving the community for over 30 years. The store offers a wide selection of comics, graphic novels, and collectibles. It hosts events such as signings, sales, and game nights. One Stop Comics is known for its friendly and knowledgeable staff, who are passionate about helping customers find the comics they're looking for or introducing them to new titles. The store is also committed to fostering a sense of community among local comic book fans, regularly hosting events that bring fans together and create opportunities for socializing and networking. Focusing on quality products, exceptional customer service, and community building, One Stop Comics has become a go-to destination for comic book fans in Oak Park and beyond.

How they celebrate

One Stop Comics in Oak Park is gearing up for an epic Free Comic Book Day celebration, beginning at 10 a.m. and ending at 8 p.m., May 4! Not only will there be a wide selection of free comics and huge discounts, but there are sure to be surprises in store. Last year, fans were treated with a special appearance from R2-D2!  Additionally, a comic artist signed autographs for the crowd. We can't wait to see what One Stop Comics has planned for this year! 

Blerds Underground is a comic book store located in La Grange, Illinois, that has gained a reputation for its focus on diversity and inclusivity within the comic book community. The store is owned by a husband and wife team who are passionate about creating a welcoming space for fans of all backgrounds, with a particular focus on celebrating and elevating the voices of Black and POC creators. Blerds Underground offers a wide selection of comics, graphic novels, and collectibles. It hosts events and workshops catering to a diverse range of interests. With its commitment to community building and promoting underrepresented voices in the industry, Blerds Underground is an essential and valuable addition to the comic book landscape.

How they celebrate

Blerds Underground is busy preparing for an unforgettable Free Comic Book Day celebration this Saturday, May 4th! The festivities will kick off at 10:00 am and run until 7:00 pm, giving fans plenty of time to explore the store's wide selection of comics and unique collectibles. Fans can  look forward to getting signed copies of work from comic book artists and writers, as well as a draw along with Ka Pow!! The Comic Art Academy. Win prizes, dress up in cosplay and enter into raffles for even more fun at Blerds. Whether you're a longtime fan or just getting into comics, this is an event you won't want to miss.

Comic Collector is a longstanding comic book store in Riverside, Illinois, serving the local community for about 30 years. The store offers a wide selection of new and back-issue comics, graphic novels, and collectibles. It hosts events such as signings, sales, and trivia nights. Comic Collector is known for its knowledgeable and friendly staff, who are always eager to help customers find the comics they're looking for or offer recommendations based on their interests. With its commitment to quality products and exceptional customer service, Comic Collector has become a beloved institution in the Riverside area, attracting comic book fans of all ages and backgrounds.

How they celebrate

Exciting news for comic book fans in Riverside, Comic Collector is participating in Free Comic Book Day this year! The store will be giving out free comics to customers, with a selection of titles available for fans of all ages and interests. Whether you're a long-time fan or a newcomer to the medium, Free Comic Book Day at Comic Collector is an excellent opportunity to explore new titles, meet other fans, and celebrate the comic book community.

Shopping at local comic book stores offers a variety of benefits, both for the customers and the community as a whole. One of the primary advantages is that shopping locally supports small businesses in the community. By purchasing from local comic book shops, customers are directly contributing to their local communities. Additionally, local comic book stores often have a unique character and charm that can't be replicated by larger chain stores, making for a more exciting and engaging shopping experience.

Another benefit of shopping at local comic book stores is the knowledgeable staff. Many comic book store employees are passionate fans themselves and are well-versed in the latest releases, classic titles, and industry news. This expertise can be invaluable for customers looking for recommendations or wanting to learn more about the comic book medium. The staff at local comic book stores are often friendly and approachable, creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for comic book fans of all ages and backgrounds.

During Free Comic Book Day, there are even more benefits to shopping at local comic book stores. In addition to the free comics, many shops offer special promotions, discounts, and events to celebrate the day. Customers can take advantage of these opportunities to explore new titles, meet other fans, and support their local comic book shops. By shopping locally on Free Comic Book Day and throughout the year, customers can help ensure these unique and valuable businesses continue to thrive.

Free Comic Book Day is an important event that celebrates the comic book industry and promotes the local comic book shops that serve as its backbone. By offering free comics, hosting events, and creating unique and personalized shopping experiences, comic book stores can connect with new customers and foster a sense of community among fans. As comic book fans, we have the power to support local businesses and help keep the industry alive and thriving.

So, mark your calendars to show your support for local comic book shops this weekend. Whether you're a longtime fan or a newcomer to the medium, Free Comic Book Day is an excellent opportunity to explore some potentially new-to-you titles and genres, like manga, some old-school favorites — like Avengers, Star Wars, or X-Men — meet other fans, and support your local community. By shopping local and spreading the word about Free Comic Book Day, we can help ensure that this important event continues to be a success for years to come.