This Saturday is no ordinary day—it's the sixteenth annual Free Comic Book Day. The tradition started in 2002, coinciding with the release of the Spider-Man movie. It's now held every first Saturday in May to capitalize on the hype that surrounds the releases of comic books turned into feature films. This year, the event is associated with the new Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2. The North American comic book industry uses the event to help promote independent comic book stores, which hopefully get some new readers out of it.
It works like this: waltz right into your favorite (participating) store and get a free comic book! It's that easy. Not every comic in every shop will be free, so calm down just a bit; the gratis books will be marked. And not every comic book store in Los Angeles is participating, but we have six solid choices scattered everywhere from West Hollywood to Glendale.
Hancock Park's Golden Apple is not only participating, but they're also holding signings with the creators of comic series like Riverdale and Wonder Woman. Apart from that, they're having a huge sale of back issues, new comics and other merchandise. DTLA's dog-friendly A Shop Called Quest will also have creator signings, cosplayers, food and prizes. Bring your pooch!
Other participating stores in the city include Secret Headquarters, Alternate Universe, Mega City One and Legacy Comics. For more information on hours and promotions, check out the Free Comic Book Day's Store Locator.
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