Melbourne
March 29-30, 2025
Melbourne Showgrounds
Written by Nena Serafimovska
Free Comic Book Day (FCBD) takes place this Saturday, May 5, and whether you’re someone who grew up living and breathing the comic Marvel Universe before it became a multi-million dollar film franchise, or you’re a Tom Hardy fan who’s now interested in Venom’s backstory, we’ve compiled a list of places in Sydney worth hitting up for everything from cosplay competitions, guest artists, trivia, and of course – free comic books.
For the uninitiated, FCBD is a single day when participating comic book speciality stores around the world give away comic books. Heavyweights like Marvel and DC always showcase their new offerings, and there are some seriously decent savings to be made on back issues; so really, it’s the best time of the year to grab free previews of the hottest new comics and stock up on your favourite titles.
Boom Studios is releasing its Mighty Morphin Power Rangers Special comic this FCBD, just in time for “Supa-Stars” and ‘90s originals David Yost (Blue Power Ranger) and Karan Ashley (Yellow Rangers) to meet fans in Sydney and Perth this June.
Here’s where the action is:
KINGS COMICS
310 Pitt St
The Holy Grail of comic book stores. Whether you’re a seasoned FCBD pro, or new to the game, this is a great place to start your journey. Kings is well organised, well stocked, and they have a great selection of popular titles as well as independent publishers.
They also have an impressive range of collector’s items; everything from statues, toys, clothing, and games. The staff are incredibly friendly and always spot on with recommendations. It’s also one of the most fun stores to visit on FCBD, not only do the staff dress up, but almost everyone visiting the store does as well. If you’ve got strong cosplay game this is the place to come.
This year, Kings Comics is giving away four free comic titles – Marvel’s Avengers/Captain America and DC’s Top Secret, as well as another two titles you can choose from a range of 50!
Special guests on the day include artist recent “Supa-Star” Dean Rankine (Simpsons & Futurama comics), Nicola Scott (Image Series Black Magick, Wonder Woman), and New York Times Bestselling comic book author Tom Taylor (Injustice: Gods Among Us and All New Wolverine) and more.
THE COMIC SHOP
10a/170 George St, Liverpool
The Comic Shop has a huge variety of single issues from mainstream and independent publishers as well as an impressive collection of action figures, busts, and some geeky home decor.
The staff are extremely passionate about comics and very knowledgeable. This is their 17th Free Comic Book Day so they’ve got it down pat.
THE PHANTOM ZONE
Shop 22C Horwood Place, Parramatta
The Phantom Zone is your typical, quieter ‘suburban’ comic book store. You probably won’t have to fight a hectic crowd here and you’ll be able to scoop up some great deals. The store had a solid inventory of new comics and trades.
The perks of hitting The Phantom Zone include being able to choose from any five free titles. If you’re a local or live close enough it’s worth a look.
KINOKUNIYA
Level 2, The Galleries, 500 George St
The biggest and best bookstore in the Southern Hemisphere, Kinokuniya has an unparalleled collection of graphic novels, as well as some great geeky toys. They’re also well organised and stocked. They’ve introduced a queue registration system to make sure fans aren’t stuck in line for hours.
This year’s Kinokuniya FCBD showbag will include a preselected collection of four free comics. There’ll also host activities, including a cosplay competition and professional photographer, Viz Comics manga boxset scavenger hunts, and the Artist’s Alley; featuring local and international talent.
Good luck this weekend and may the odds ever be in your favour!
