Free Comic Book Day hits the nation on May 6, meaning Northeast Ohio will come alive with collectors looking to celebrate.
While this list is far from comprehensive, here are a few local comic stores where you might find that next great read — for free!
Carol & John’s Comic Book Shop
It’s the beloved shop’s 22nd year taking part in Free Comic Book Day and the owners are offering a selection of 46 comics to choose from — the best part is, you can take not just one, but up to 12. 10 a.m.-7 p.m., 216-252-0606, 17462 Lorain Ave., Cleveland,cnjcomics.com
B & L Comics Cards & Nostalgia
Nestled in Parma, B & L offers a solid range of nerdy delights, from comics to a selection of TCGs for those card game lovers. With Spider-Man keeping watch atop the shop’s sign, the storefront is hard to miss as you make your way toward comic heaven. 11 a.m.-6 p.m., 440-886-3077, 5591 Ridge Road, Parma, facebook.com
Kidforce Collectibles
Located in Berea, Kidforce boasts an eclectic variety of comics, figures and toys, card games and more. This Saturday, the shop will lean into Free Comic Book Day with a limited supply of free issues and deals across the store, including 10% off all action figures and 40% off all graphic novels and trade paperbacks. 11 a.m.-6 p.m., 440-239-7777, 103 Front St., Berea, kidforcecollectibles.com
Ground Zero Comics and Cards
If you’re out in Strongsville, you must stop by Ground Zero for your comic and gaming needs. The store stays well up-to-date with the latest issues and their selection of tabletop games including miniatures for Warhammer 40,000 and card games like Magic: The Gathering means there’s something for everyone at this 25-year-old shop. 12-9:30 p.m., 440-572-9599, 15139 Pearl Road, Strongsville, groundzerocomics.com
Superscript Comics and Games
A newer shop on the scene, Superscript fits right in with the Madison Avenue nerdy shopping district in Lakewood — alongside other staples like Doki Doki Kawaii Shop, Apple Jax and Cleveland Curiosities. For Free Comic Book Day, the store boasts a day of celebration with local art vendors, a raffle and, of course, free comics. 12-9 p.m., 216-712-6231, 13361 Madison Ave., Lakewood, superscriptohio.com