If you’re looking for something easy (and free) to do with the kids this weekend, this is one of those events that always ends up being a hit.
Free Comic Book Day is back on Saturday, May 2, 2026, and local comic shops around Roanoke are joining in. It’s simple—walk in, pick out a few comics, and walk out with them. No catch.
Even if your kids have never been into comics before, this is a fun way to introduce them. And if they already love them…just plan on staying a little longer than you expected.
Who is participating in Free Comic Book Day in Roanoke, Virginia?
According to FreeComicBookDay.com, the following local businesses are participating in Free Comic Book Day:
- The Collector's Lair - 2110 Bennington St. Roanoke and 5327-B Williamson Road Roanoke
- Star City Comics - 5728 Williamson Road Roanoke
- B&D Comic Shop - 2937 Brambleton Ave SW Roanoke
Each shop gets its own selection, and sometimes they’ll have little extras going on too. If you’ve got kids who are really into it, it’s not a bad idea to hit more than one spot.
It’s not just about the free comics (although that’s obviously the main draw).
There’s something about letting kids pick out their own books—no pressure, no assigned reading—that just clicks. You’ll see them flip through pages right there in the store, trying to decide what looks coolest.
And for a lot of families, this ends up being their first time stepping into a comic shop, which is kind of fun in itself.
Quick Look at This Year’s Free Comics
There are 24 titles in the 2026 lineup, and it’s a pretty solid mix this year.
A few your kids might recognize (or get excited about):
- World of Archie One-Shot
- DC x Sonic #1 Special Edition
- Aquamanatee #1 Special Edition
- Stitch #1
- Mega Man Showdown Special #1
- Street Fighter Forever #0
Plus some new ones and a few that are more for older kids or teens if you’ve got a range of ages.
Events like this are a great reminder of how many fun, low-key things there are to do right here in our area.
Support a local shop, let the kids explore something new, and enjoy a little family time along the way.
