Free Comic Book Day at Alternate Reality

When the first Free Comic Book Day was held in 2002, the long-awaited Spider-Man live-action movie premiered that same weekend. At the time, it was still a bit of a novelty that Hollywood was making popular, big-budget superhero films (X-Men was released the previous year), and the North American event was a way for comics publishers and retailers to share that spotlight they helped ignite.

Since then, Free Comic Book Day, which is Saturday, May 4, has become more of a happening in its own right and not something that relies on a big-screen component. The day continues to be an opportunity to introduce people unfamiliar with comics—or provide reintroductions when it comes to lapsed fans—by handing out special books from publishers gratis without any other purchases.

But the event also is a time for fans to celebrate their passion with fellow enthusiasts. (In what can be chalked up as unofficial synergy, the first Saturday of May is usually reserved for the premiere of one of the summer's big superhero movies; this year it's Iron Man 3.)

Alternate Reality, 3147 W. 111th Street, will open at 9 a.m. on Saturday, May 4. 

What's free? The Free Comic Book Day website lists the comics publishers are providing.

A few things to remember if you attend the event, whether at the Amazing Fantasy locations or another participating comic shop:

• quantities are limited, and stores do run out. Go early to make sure you get the free comic you want.
• Those limited quantities also means stores can limit how many free comics a customer can have to ensure as many people as possible can enjoy the day.
• Stores won't carry all the free comics offered. Call ahead to check.
• Don't be a jerk. Traditionally, Free Comic Book Day is one of the busiest days for comic book stores. That means employees are extremely busy, so be a patient and courteous customer. And that behavior should extend to fellow patrons, as well as the cosplayers.

While you don't need to buy anything to participate in Free Comic Book Day, one of the free offerings might pique your curiosity. Also, Free Comic Book Day is a great way to introduce kids to the medium. 

- By Joe Vince