What Is Comicfest?
On the Saturday before Halloween participating comic shops across the country hand out special Halloween comic issues free to anyone who comes into their shop. This is what Halloween ComicFest is about.
Think of it like trick-or treating but for comics rather than candy. In some cases, candy is involved but that depends entirely on the local comic book shop. During the event, anyone who goes into a participating comic shop can choose a free comic from the titles available. This year there were 34 titles available. This is also a great time to participate in the fun Halloween-themed activities hosted by the comic shops.
I headed down to my favorite comic shop, Krum’s World Comics & Collectibles, where the festivities were already underway.
Comicfest is Low-Calorie Fun
Let’s face it, between food allergies, sugar content, and unknown origins – Halloween candy is fraught with risk. On top of that candy not exactly good for you. Comics, on the other hand, has never been linked to a single case of diabetes, or childhood obesity. In fact, I’d argue that Comicfest is actually good for both children and adults in that it promotes something we all need to spend more time doing – Reading. It’s also great for building imagination and creativity in both children and adults.
Have Fun With Other Comic Fans
One of my favorite parts about conventions is the Cosplay. Comicfest is yet another opportunity for costumes and capers. At Krum’s World, there was a wide range of comic enthusiasts dressed in celebration for the season. Age ranges ran the gamut from the very young to the very old.
This is because comics have become a very inclusive fandom over the years. I remember being the only girl going into a comic shop and now I shop at a comic shop owned by an amazing woman. If you happen to be in the greater Orlando area – stop in and meet Diana. Be careful though she is great at finding comics that are just right for your tastes. Check the many happy patrons that came out in full costume for Comicfest.
Surprise Guests
Comicfest abounds with fun and each shop does their own thing in terms of activities. Some have contests, some have children’s activities and some even have special guests.
Krum’s World Does a bit of everything which explains why it’s the number one comic shop in Winter Garden, Florida. This year I was privileged to meet Peter Smith of Crimson Fable Studios and see some of his work on The Chronicles of Zelaria.
Peter was a great guy. He was happy to tell me a bit about the inspiration behind his work and to share with me some of the work that has gone into it. In the next few weeks, we’ll have a sit down with Peter to let all our readers get to know him. I also picked up a preview issue of The Chronicles of Zelaria as well as some great Star Wars art by Peter.
ComicFest is for both Adults and Children
Remember when you discovered you were to old for trick-or-treating? That sucked so much. I can guarantee you that Halloween Comicfest will not only allow you to participate regardless of your age but will in fact have something extremely appropriate for you. If you are a child – there are free comics for you. If you are a tween or teen – there are free comics for you. If you are an adult – there are comics for you as well.
Comicfest offers a treat for people of all ages.
This year’s titles included:
- Ms. Marvel #1,
- Superior Spider-Man #1,
- Frankenstein
- Thor: Road to War of the Realms #1;
- Howard Lovecraft
- John Constantine: The Hellblazer;
- Hellboy,
- Alita
- Jughead: The Hunger,
- Goosebumps
- Rise of the TMNT
And many more. Now, really, doesn’t this look like a great alternative to candy?
ComicFest and Halloween Coexist
The best part of all is that if you love your Tricks – or – Treats and you also love comics – you don’t have to choose. ComicFest is always the Saturday before Halloween. This means you can have your Comics and Candy too!
