Talk about great timing!

A week after the Bell County Comic Con, we'll have another opportunity to celebrate all things comics and adventure with Free Comic Book Day.

What Is Free Comic Book Day?

It's right there in the name: participating comic shops across the world will have select comics to give away to pique the interest of young readers and remind seasoned readers why they fell in love with the medium in the first place.

When Is Free Comic Book Day

Glad you asked! It's this Saturday, August 14.

Some folks may be confused, because Free Comic Book Day has traditionally been held on the first Saturday of May to coincide with the normal release date of big comic book films in the past.

However, COVID-19 reared its villainous head, and this year's event was postponed, not only for the safety of customers and shop owners, but because distribution of books had been slowed down due the ongoing pandemic.

Why Is Free Comic Book Day?

Shut up, Drax.

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Who Can Participate In Free Comic Book Day?

You, your best friend, your sidekick, your arch enemy, your parents, your grandparents, your kids, your crazy uncle, your faithful butler, Alfred - anyone who loves comics and wants to share that passion with the people they love.

Where Can I Get A Free Comic in Central Texas?

There are participating comic shops across the CTX where you can pick up a free book this weekend.

In Temple, visit Terp's Toys and Comics at 808 South 31st Street.

Terp is a super friendly and knowledgeable guy who's made his shop a welcoming, inclusive, and family friendly place for comic lovers and collectors young and old. Check out his Facebook page for a look at the free titles you can grab this weekend, and be sure to follow for upcoming events.

Once school starts and report cards begin rolling out, stop by Terp's to ask about his Report Card Program. Kids with good grades can grab a free book!

If you're over in west Bell County, there are two great shops in Killeen that are participating.

Book Stan' at 204 North Fort Hood Street, Suite D is a fantastic shop near West Veterans Memorial that also offers tabletop games and supplies, collectibles, and statues. I've always had good experiences with the staff and other customers there, so don't be shy about stopping in if you're new to comics or tabletop gaming and have questions.

I also recommend America's Heroes Comics & Games at 3401 West Stan Schlueter Loop, Suite 8. The staff there are friendly and knowledgeable, and the shop also offers tabletop games, supplies, and collectibles in addition to an extensive collection of comic book titles.

In Waco, you can visit Bankston's at 1321 South Valley Mills Drive and Golden's Book Exchange at 3112 Franklin Avenue. Full disclosure: I don't make it up to Waco too often, but both of these shops have stellar reputations.

Let Your Geek Flag Fly

Growing up in the 90s and early 2000s, I never imagined comic book and sci-fi culture would become such an enormous mainstream cultural phenomenon. Whether you're a hardcore comic aficionado or someone just dipping their toe into the water, your local comic book shop has something to suit your tastes and help you share your passion with other people.

Let's support these local businesses and the sense of community they help build.

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