Superheroes unite for free comics

Melbourne

As the new Avengers movie continues to smash box office records on the big screen, fans of the superhero genre will be on the hunt for print versions as the city's specialty retailers celebrate Free Comic Book Day on May 5th.

It's FCBD for those in the know, the event is now in its 17th year, with independent comic book retailers around the world uniting this Saturday 5 May to distribute millions of free comic books. As a UNESCO City of Literature, Melbourne’s comic culture is joining in on the action with an abundance of retailers supporting the occasion.

All Star Comics
After picking up the Eisner award for world’s best comic store in 2014, All Star Comics continues to lead the way locally. Beyond the fine selection of free comics suitable for both the big and little kids, All Star Comics will also welcome a huge line-up of local creators drawing free sketches in-store. Visitors are advised to arrive early as lines are expected. 53 Queen St, Melbourne, VIC, 3000

Minotaur
A stalwart of Melbourne’s comic book scene, pop-culture specialists Minotaur are celebrating FCBD in 2018 with goodie bags, spot prizes, lucky dips and store-wide discounts. Buried in a basement near Flinders Street Station, comic lovers should look for the purple sign and queues of people, lining up to get their hulk-hands on free comics. 12 Elizabeth St, Melbourne, VIC, 3000

Classic Comics
An annual participant in FCBD, this laneway gem boasts some of the friendliest and knowledgeable comic book clerks in the country. The super-clerks at Classic Comics are equipped with knowledge to help amateur and serious collectors along their comic book journey. Shop 7, 50 Bourke St, Melbourne, VIC, 3000.

Comics ‘R’ Us
With two locations and an extensive back catalogue of all things comic related, Comics ‘R’ Us is the ultimate in neighbourhood comic book store. They are set to embrace FCBD, with free comics for all who come through their doors, irrespective of making a purchase.
220 Bourke St, Melbourne and 114 Chapel St, Windsor, VIC,

Collectors Edge
Collectors Edge is treating comic book fans beyond FCBD, with a four-day celebration of all things comics planned for their store north-west of Melbourne. There will be daily deals, free comics from the in-store vault and showbags overflowing with superhero swag.
14 Everage St, Moonee Ponds, VIC,

Melbourne Libraries
Libraries managed by the City of Melbourne are also getting in to the FCBD spirit, with children encouraged to dress up in their most heroic (or villainous) attire for their next visit. There will superhero story time across the next week, an introduction to comic drawing at the Kathleen Syme Library and in the spirit of the celebration - free comics!

visitvictoria.com