Big Bang gearing up for Free Comic Book Day
Free Comic Book Day has become the biggest day of the year for Big Bang, a toys/comics/games shop in Towne Square North.
“It wouldn’t have lasted 24 years if it didn’t drive sales,” said Wil Barker, store manager. “Every year we gear up for Free Comic Book Day. There’s usually a line down the sidewalk waiting to get in.
“All of the publishers jump in. A lot of times they use it as a springboard for new titles or new storylines coming out.”
This year’s event coincides with Star Wars Day — “May the Fourth be with you” — which is fitting, with Star Wars being among the top titles slated for giveaway.
Barker also expects Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and Spiderman titles to be popular, and he’s intrigued to see Jonny Quest making another comeback.
“I was surprised to see him on the roster this year,” Barker said of Quest, one of 50 to 60 titles being offered for free. “Every year all of the publishers decide what they’re going to have. Marvel and DC put out a lot of stuff.”
Each customer can receive one of each free book. Free comics will be distributed until supplies are gone.
Barker said movie studios used to be more involved, often launching movie promotions. But there is still plenty to see and grab for experienced collectors and novices, including an exclusive Deadpool blanket.
Big Bang will open at 10 a.m. Saturday, with Free Comic Book Day activities running until 2 p.m.
In addition to offering free comics, there will also be several activities for families and children, including coloring and costume contests and a video game challenge.
“For us, it is by far our biggest day of the year,” Barker said. “It’s geared at either getting people back into comics or, with the kids books, getting kids into comics.”
There will also be a chance to win prizes. Every $10 a customer spends allows them to draw a number that corresponds with a prize.
The grand prize will be a Hot Toys Collectible premium statue of Venom valued at $600.
“There will be tons of prizes,” Barker said.
Owensboro comic book writer and illustrator Charlie McFarland will be on hand to meet customers. His “The Citizen” comic book was a strong seller, and expectations are high for his “Pistol Shrimp” book.
Big Bang will also hold a sidewalk sale from opening until at least 6 p.m., and it may stretch closer to the store’s closing at 8 p.m. There will be $1 back issues of comics, discounted games and much more at “heavily” discounted prices.
