Free Comic Book Day, celebrated each year on the 1st Saturday in May, was started over 20 years ago as a way to attract new readers to independent comic book stores. Now with over 2,000 comic book shops participating worldwide, this fun event continues to strengthen the love of comics and introduce new comic book readers to the industry. It's not just Spiderman and Batman, there are comics for all age ranges and all interests! Luckily, in and around the Western Suburbs we have lots of great ways to take part in Free Comic Book Day 2026 on May 2nd!
When you visit the store for Free Comic Book Day, you will be able to pick from a limited selection of specific titles available for Free Comic Book Day. My kids are particularly excited this year for the Archie Comics | World of Archie One-shot! The same selection will be available at all stores and libraries, but some titles will sell out quickly, so be sure to get there early! Some stores have additional events and happenings to check them out!
We have all the best places to find your free comics around Downers Grove, La Grange, and Elmhurst, IL!
Local Comic Book Stores Participating in Free Comic Book Day 2026:
Blerd's Underground
15 1/2 South La Grange Road
La Grange, IL, 60525
(708) 352-1230
GEM Comics
125 W 1st St
Elmhurst, IL, 60126
(630) 833-8787
Graham Crackers
1550 Ogden Ave
Downers Grove, IL, 60515
(630) 852-1810
Mr. Wayne's Pop Culture Collectibles
13 W Quincy
Westmont, IL 60559
(331) 903-6774
Local Libraries Participating in Free Comic Book Day 2026:
Stop by and pick up a free comic. Comics available while supplies last. children's titles are in the Kids Room; adult and teen upstairs. Available while supplies last.
Help us celebrate the visual magic of comics! Drop by the Library all day to pick up a free comic while supplies last. Comics provided by Blerds Underground in La Grange.
Thomas Ford Memorial Library, Western Springs
Stop by to pick up free comics for all ages! Titles will be available on a first come, first served basis while supplies last. Comics provided by Blerds Underground in La Grange.
Free Comic Book Day was started in the belief that there’s a comic book or graphic novel out there for everyone to love. We hope that you and your kids find a comic book they LOVE on Saturday!
Back when my kids and I participated in our first Free Comic Book Day, we went to downtown La Grange to Blerds Underground. As total comic book newbies (aside from the Betty & Veronica comics I read as a kid) we felt totally welcomed with open arms here. Everyone there was so helpful and friendly, and didn't make us feel out of place.
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