Free Comic Book Day 2026 in Austin: Participating Stores

Jacob Hix, 8, reads a comic as he waits in line with his dad, Tyler His, to meet Lou Ferrigno at Austin Books and Comics on Friday, Aug. 6, 2021. Ferrigno is known for playing The Hulk in the 1970s and 80s, as well as being a fitness industry icon.

Comic lovers, it’s your time to shine: Saturday is Free Comic Book Day!

Here’s what to know about the history of comic books and how to score free ones in the Austin area.

History of comic books, graphic novels in the US

Although today’s comic books may seem like a modern phenomenon, the history of comics stretches back to the 1840s. "Histoire de M. Vieux Bois," which translates to "The Adventures of Obadiah Oldbuck," is considered the first iteration of a comic. Swiss artist Rodolphe Töpffer began publishing in 1837, following the humorous story of a man told through a series of panels with illustrations at the top and descriptive text at the bottom. It was the first comic book printed in the U.S., according to Dartmouth Libraries.

The Platinum Age of Comics, from 1897 to 1938, saw comic strips printed in American newspapers. Also called "the funnies," these typically appeared in Sunday editions as a way to attract readers. Comics like "The Brownies" grew in popularity, and a collection of "The Yellow Kid" published in 1897 is widely considered the first true comic book.

The publication of "Superman" in 1938 launched the Golden Age. The character created by Jerry Siegel and Joe Shuster remains among the most recognizable comic book characters today, PBS reports. Its success inspired more action comics like "Batman and Robin," "Wonder Woman" and "Green Lantern." In the 1940s, "Captain Marvel" surpassed "Superman" in popularity among superhero comics.

The Silver Age of Comics spanned from 1956 to 1970, featuring characters based on the Golden Age’s superheroes reimagined for a new generation. This era saw the birth of Marvel Comics' creations: "Fantastic Four," "Hulk," "X-Men," "Avengers" and "Doctor Strange," to name a few.

The fantastical was pushed aside in favor of social consciousness in the Bronze Age. Comics published between 1970 and 1985 are characterized as darker and more mature, addressing issues like racism, alcoholism and drug addiction. Despite this shift in emphasis, Marvel and DC creations continued to lead the U.S. industry.

The Modern Age of Comics can also be broken into three eras. The Copper Age from 1985 to 1992 continued to deliver darker and more sophisticated storylines like "Crisis on Infinite Earths," "Watchmen" and "Batman: The Dark Knight Returns." Between 1992 and 2000, the Iron Age — also called the Dark Age or Chromium Age — was recognizable by its extreme and violent anti-heroes. Lastly, the Modern Age can also refer to comics published in the 21st century — nicknamed the Plastic Age or Pixel Age — and encompasses digital distribution, made-for-TV comics and corporate crossover events.

Free Comic Book Day has usually been celebrated on the first Saturday in May since its inception in 2002, which intentionally aligned with the premiere weekend of the "Spider-Man" movie. This year, it's observed on May 2.

What began as a U.S. event has now expanded across the globe, with over 2,000 shops in all participating.

"FCBD is built on one simple idea: there’s a comic out there for everyone. Whether you’re a lifelong fan or just curious, you’ll find something you love among the incredible selection of titles for all ages and tastes," the event’s website states. "Your local comic shop is more than a store; it’s the heart of the comic book community. Each shop has its own unique vibe, packed with comics, graphic novels, collectibles, and more. It’s the perfect place to discover new stories, meet fellow fans, and celebrate pop culture together."

Austin shops celebrating Free Comic Book Day

The official website for Free Comic Book Day operates a store locator tool that tracks stores participating in the event. Five are listed for the Austin area.

1601 S. IH-35 Frontage Rd. #330, Round Rock

(512) 279-8888

Open 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturdays.

5002 N. Lamar Blvd., Austin

(512) 454-4197

Open 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Saturdays.

7801 N. Lamar Blvd. Ste. B-169, Austin

(737) 376-5621

Open 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturdays.

5001 Hwy 290, Austin

(512) 276-2870

Open 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Saturdays.

2438 W. Anderson Ln. Ste. B1

(512) 454-2399

Open 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. on Saturdays.