Free Comic Book Day in Philly: Where to get your comics

As every comic book geek knows, the first Saturday in May is Free Comic Book Day! On Saturday, May 7, comic book stores throughout Philadelphia will be handing out select special issues to longtime fans and curiosity seekers alike. The timing couldn’t be more perfect, as this year’s date coincides with the long-anticipated theatrical release of Marvel’s “Captain America: Civil War,” which pits the titular superhero and several other Avengers against Iron Man and his closest cohorts.

We compiled a list of the best comic book shops in Philly to help you plan your travels this year:

Amalgam Comics and Coffeehouse

The city’s newest comic book store, opened just this past December on Frankford Avenue in Kensington, specializes in the promotion of characters and stories starring women and people of color. Visitors to the store’s first-ever Free Comic Book Day can even relax with their favorite book and a coffee at the shop’s in-store coffee bar.

2578 Frankford Ave, Facebook.com/amalgamphilly

Brave New Worlds

A longtime staple of Old City, Brave New Worlds is a unique oasis in the art galleries and shops that otherwise line 2nd Street just north of Market. While it naturally carries the latest Marvel and DC releases, Brave New Worlds also sells work by local Philly artists and writers. Plus, it’s one of the few places outside of the Internet where you can buy Cards Against Humanity.

55 S. 2nd St, Bravenewworldcomics.com

Fat Jack’s Comic Crypt

If your travels take you to the Rittenhouse Square neighborhood, you have to stop by this Sansom Street shop with one of the largest back issue collections around! Pet the store’s cats, peruse local geeky event brochures and even pick up your tabletop gaming needs here as you collect your free books.

2006 Sansom St, Comicrypt.com

Atomic City Comics

This location is going all-out for Free Comic Book Day. The staffers are holding “Atomic Con” all day, which not only includes your free comic books, but also live entertainment and even a costume contest! The event coincides with the South Street Spring Festival, so expect hundreds of fellow fans right there with you!

638 South St, Facebook.com/atomiccitycomics

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South Philly Comics

Possessing a knowledgeable staff and even a great selection of “real” books (you know, where actual words replace caped superheroes), no trip to East Passyunk in South Philly is complete without a visit here.

1840 E. Passyunk Ave, Southphillycomics.com