Free Comic Book Day (FCBD) is always on the first Saturday in May, but due to COVID, it has not been recognized the past two years… until Saturday, August 14 for its makeup date. FCBD is an international promotional success for the comic book industry now supported in over 65 countries. This year marks the 20th Year for the event whose success at local store Flying Colors Comics and Other Cool Stuff on Treat Blvd. is of particular importance to Concord as owner Joe Field is the creator of the worldwide promotion. The promotion is not just for kids. “I have been attending Free Comic Book Day (since 2015) and each year it gets better. I brought my young son with me, and I am not sure who was more excited, him or me,” customer Desire told us. “It’s comics, balloons and Superhero look-alikes…. many people waiting to show off their costume-making skills of great outfits of their favorite comic hero. Waiting in line becomes half the fun of going. It isn’t just about getting a free comic; it is about being absorbed into comic culture and the enjoyment that goes along with them. It is a day of excitement and nerdy-ness not to be missed.”
Comic artists/writers John Hagemen, Mel smith, and Brandon McKinney were signing autographs at Flying Colors, Concord. 
If you did miss it, don’t worry. All Contra Costa Libraries have scheduled Free Comic Book Day for this week, August 16-21, offering a free comic swag bag to visitors. In addition, they have included special virtual activities to enjoy.
VIRTUAL EVENTS
Charles Schulz Museum Presents: Cartooning in Your Classroom – Monday, August 16, 5 p.m.
Online Superhero Storytime – Tuesday, August 17, 10 a.m.
An Evening with Actor Jesse Burch, Tuesday, August 17, 5 p.m.
Character Development with Sam Filstrup – Wednesday, August 18, 4 p.m.
Cosplay Panel Featuring Endor Base Bay Area Costuming Group – Thursday, August 19, 6 p.m.
Charles M. Schulz: An American Cartoonist – Saturday, August 21, 10 a.m.
A Conversation with Dan Slott – Saturday, August 21, 2 p.m.
Visit ccclib.org/free-comics to register for these free online events, search for graphic