Free Comic Book Day 2027
Free Comic Book Day (FCBD) is an annual celebration when participating comic book shops give away specially produced comics for free to anyone who walks in. It happens on the first Saturday of May every year, and Free Comic Book Day 2027 falls on Saturday, May 1, 2027. It is the perfect day to visit a local shop for the first time, pick up something new to read, and see what your neighborhood comic store has to offer.
What is Free Comic Book Day
Free Comic Book Day launched in 2002 as an industry-wide event designed to bring new readers into local comic shops. The very first FCBD was held on May 4, 2002, timed to the release of a major comic-book film, and it has been held on the first Saturday of May ever since. What began as a promotional idea has grown into one of the biggest days on the comics calendar, celebrated at thousands of shops across the United States, Puerto Rico, and around the world.
Each year, major and independent publishers — including Marvel, DC, Image, Dark Horse, and many others — produce special free issues created just for the occasion. These are often accessible #1s, all-ages titles, and samplers meant to introduce readers to a series or character. Shops order these free comics in advance and hand them out to visitors on the day, which is why participation and available titles can vary from store to store.
How to find a participating shop
Most local comic book shops take part in Free Comic Book Day, so there is a good chance a participating store is close to you. Use Comic Rodeo to find one: browse shops by state or search the full comic shop directory to see stores near you, complete with addresses, hours, and phone numbers.
Because shops order their free issues weeks ahead of time, not every store participates every year. Once you have found a nearby shop, it is worth a quick phone call to confirm they are taking part in FCBD and to ask which titles or events they have planned.
Tips for your first FCBD
- Arrive early. Popular titles are the first to go. Some shops see lines before opening, so getting there early gives you the best selection.
- Expect per-person limits. Most stores cap how many free comics each visitor can take so that everyone gets some. Limits vary by shop — be ready to choose your favorites.
- Look for extras. Many shops turn FCBD into a full event with storewide sales, creator signings, cosplay, raffles, and activities for kids alongside the free comics.
- Support the shop. The comics are free, but the day is a great excuse to explore the store and pick up a back issue, trade paperback, or new release while you are there.
FCBD dates
| Year | Date | Status |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 | Saturday, May 2, 2026 | Past |
| 2027 | Saturday, May 1, 2027 | Next |
| 2028 | Saturday, May 6, 2028 | Upcoming |
Frequently asked questions
Is everything really free on Free Comic Book Day?
Yes. The specially marked Free Comic Book Day titles are given away at no cost while supplies last. Regular back issues, new releases, and merchandise are still sold as usual, though many shops run FCBD sales and discounts on the day.
When is Free Comic Book Day 2027?
Free Comic Book Day 2027 is Saturday, May 1, 2027. FCBD is always held on the first Saturday of May.
Do all comic shops participate in Free Comic Book Day?
Most local comic book shops participate, but not every store does. Shops order the free issues in advance, so it is best to call ahead or check your local shop’s page to confirm they are taking part before you go.
How many free comics can you take?
Limits vary by shop. Many stores set a per-person cap — often a handful of titles — so that everyone who visits gets some. Arriving early gives you the best selection before popular titles run out.
Ready for Free Comic Book Day? Find a participating shop near you and plan your visit.
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