The perfect storm of freebies and fun collide as Star Wars Day (May The Fourth) and Free Comic Book Day collide in 2019. (There will even be a free Star Wars comic provided at select shops.)
For the uninitiated, Free Comic Book Day is the first Saturday in May, set aside for participating comic shops and specialty shops across North America to give away free comics. The free comics are preselected and shipped only to participating stores to welcome new fans and thank life-long lovers of comics.
Star Wars Day falls on May 4, and refers to the phrase “May the force be with you,” as a day celebrated by fans of the movie franchise to celebrate their favorite characters, episodes and stories.
With the two dates falling on the same Saturday this year, many comic shops and libraries are hosting coinciding events.
Chicago
First Aid Comics
When: May 4, 11 a.m.-7 p.m.
Where: 1617 E. 55th St., Chicago
In addition to free comics, the Hyde Park store will host illustrator and colorist George Gant, host activities for kids, have door prizes and sales on comics in store.
Star Wars Night at White Sox
When: May 4, 6:10 p.m.
Where: Guaranteed Rate Field, 333 W. 35th St, Chicago
The White Sox are hosting Star Wars Night against the Boston Red Sox, with a special R2D2 Bobblehead giveaway to the first 15,000 fans. There are always a few extra tricks up the sleeves of the White Sox front office staff on fun nights like this.
North/Northwest Suburbs
Star Wars: The Phantom Menace
When: May 4, 1:30-4 p.m.
Where: 128 N. County Street, Waukegan
Celebrate Star Wars Day with a special screening of the “Phantom Menace.”
South Suburbs
Cosmic Bowling
When: May 4, 6-10 p.m.
Where: Eagles Bowling Lanes, 2427 Grove St., Blue Island
Support the construction of the Blue Island Fire Museum at a Star Wars Day Cosmic Bowling event. Ticket includes three games and pizza. $20.
May The Fourth Be With You – All Ages Party
When: May 4, 1-4 p.m.
Where: Homewood Public Library, 17917 Dixie Hwy, Homewood
Enjoy a Star Wars bash with a costume contest, recycled droid building, crafts, games and trivia. Free.
Free Comic Book Day/Pop Culture Celebration
When: May 4, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
Where: Oak Lawn Public Library, 9427 S. Raymond, Oak Lawn
A celebration of pop culture with performances, exhibitors, panels, kids activities, face painting, cosplay, free comic books, drawings, photo booth, meet-ups, trivia and more.
Western Suburbs
DuPage Symphony
When: May 4, 7:30-10 p.m.
Where: Wentz Concert Hall, 171 E. Chicago Ave, Naperville
A family-friendly concert of movie music, including the Star Wars Suite by John Williams after intermission. Audience is welcome to come in Star Wars costumes. $5.
Free Comic Book Day
When: May 4, 9 a.m.-5 p.m.
Where: Batavia Public Library, 10 S. Batavia Ave., Batavia
Children can stop by the Youth Services Desk for a free comic book, while supplies last. Free.
Star Wars Party
When: May 4, 12-2 p.m
Where: Berwyn Public Library, 2701 S. Harlem Ave., Berwyn
Celebrate May the Fourth, meet a Jedi Master and his nemesis, Darth Villain. Get light saber training and witness an epic battle. Recommended for ages 5-12. Teens can watch Rogue One in the library’s Teen Room. Free, registration required.
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