Comic book shops are getting into the holiday spirit and offering free comic treats without any tricks Halloween weekend.
On Oct. 29, retailers in more tahn 30 countries will celebrate the fifth annual Halloween ComicFest by offering 32 different free titles featuring characters like Darth Vader, Squirrel Girl, Scooby-Doo and the “My Little Pony” gang. Rubber Mallet Comics in Pittston and Comics on the Green in Scranton are among the shops taking part.
Comics on the Green owner David Romeo Jr. said there are a number of advantages to taking part in the themed event.
“Halloween ComicFest is a great way to introduce young readers to comics, and it’s an excellent way for comic shops to keep the momentum of summer sales going, as well as begin holiday promotions,” Romeo Jr. said.
In true trick-or-treat fashion, Comics on the Green plans to offer candy to patrons. Rubber Mallet Comics owner Chuck Rowles said his shop’s graphic novels will be 50 percent off, while back issues will be on sale for $1. Rowles said Halloween ComicFest serves as the kickoff for a nationwide costume contest through Diamond Comic Distributors called The Greatest Halloween Costume Contest Ever.
“You need to dress up in your costume and take a picture holding one of the free comics, upload your photo to their website, you share and get votes for your costume and you could win a shopping spree,” Rowles said. “There are five different categories … some of it’s random, some of its based on votes you get online. We supply the comics you take your picture with.”
For more information, visit HalloweenComicFest.com, call Rubber Mallet Comics at 570-655-5522 or call Comics on the Green at 570-342-5960.
