Tomorrow is the first Saturday in May, and while that doesn't hold much significance for a lot of people, for comic book fans, however, it's Free Comic Book Day (FCBD). Recognised across the globe, Free Comic Book Day has been slowing growing in prominence here in South Africa, with many of the local comic book shops getting in on the action. 

For those unfamiliar with FCBD, comic book publishers produce a number of special edition printings for die hard fans or newcomers to enjoy. Currently there are up to 50 different titles slated for FCBD, but availability is dependent on regions, as well as how many copies your local comic book shop acquired. 

Added to this, many shops often have special events planned at their locations, with artist and author signings, tabletop and card game tournaments, cosplayers and of course in-store discounts.  

With that in mind, we've picked some of our favourite comic book shops in Johannesburg and Cape Town, highlighting what they have planned for FCBD. 

The Nexus (Randburg)

Formerly known as Animeworx, The Nexus is now the go to place for anything gaming in the Johannesburg region. On top of that, they have some of the best merch around, and also boast a partnership with Outer Limits to sell some of their comic book inventory, which compliments their own extensive library of manga. 

Like many other comic book retailers, The Nexus has a few special offers in store for tomorrow. This includes the first 50 people through the door receiving a R50 Nexus voucher to use on the day. Along with a swathe of free comic books, they'll also have tabletop game demos, as well as an artist signing station with Sean Izaakse, Jason Masters, Greg Nell, Manu Kongolo and Nas Hoosen in attendance.

Lastly, a quiz will be happening on the day with the winner receiving a comic book bundle worth R2000 and a mystery bonus prize. We advise stopping by their Nexus Cafe too, which makes outstanding milkshakes and burgers.    

Cosmic Comics (Randburg)

If you're in the Randburg area, but looking for something a tad more low-key than The Nexus, Cosmic Comics is definitely worth a visit. They've got more than 3000 comic books to hand out to visitors. There's also an added incentive for early birds, with the first person through the door receiving a 1/6th scale Green Lantern figure from Artfx. 

For those with a little cash to splash tomorrow, the first 10 people to spend more than R500 will get their hands on a selected Artfx figure. But should you not have that kind of funds, you can still get a Spider-Man: Homecoming poster if you're among the first 100 people in line. 

With Cosmic Comics adopting a limited number of customers in the store at a time policy, Magnolia Bake & Cake will be in attendance to sort you out with coffee and sweet treats.    

Reader's Den (Tyger Valley and Claremont)

Comic book fans who call Cape Town home will want to head down to either Tyger Valley or Claremont to check out Reader's Den. A mainstay on the FCBD calendar for the past few years, Reader's Den cosplay contest is always one to enjoy, with people really getting into the swing of things. 

As for the comic books themselves, Reader's Den will have all 50 FCBD titles available, but it is limited to one per person, so choose wisely. There's an-store discount too, with everything receiving 10% off, and if you've ever visited their stores, you'll know there is plenty to choose from. 

Should you spend more than R1000 at Reader's Den, you'll get an exclusive 75th Anniversary Lil Bombshell Wonder Woman vinyl figure, but they do note it's while stocks last.    

Head on down

Even if you're not a comic book fan, we'd advise you to head on down to your local comic book shop. The owners and patrons are certainly passionate about the medium, and are always keen to get more people interested. They'll be other activities at several of the larger stores, not to mention getting something for free.