Free Comic Book Day is on its way and with many restrictions lifted, a lot of people are looking forward to enjoying the holiday again. This year, you might find that there is going to be a lot more going on simply because last year was canceled for the most part. So, if you’re looking forward to the holiday you might want to check out these ten ideas so you can make the most out of the holiday and make memories that will help make up partially for the loss of fun last year.

1. Call Ahead
Although a lot of stores are running full force, there still may be a few things you should take into consideration before you head out for comic book day. So, if you want to be prepared, you might want to call before you go in or even get in touch with the store via social media. Some stores might opt out of participating in the holiday because the pandemic is ongoing, which might be a problem if you show up with nothing to gain. Other stores might be taking precautions to help keep you and their staff safe. You might also ask what titles will be offered, so you’ll know which stores you will need to venture to. So, it is always best to be prepared, so you know exactly where to go.

2. Spice Up Your Mask
Since facial masks are going to be required in most places you go and it still recommended that you wear one, you might want to spend some time making your mask holiday ready. You can approach this in a number of ways. To begin with, you might paint a comic book scene onto your mask. Another option is to use comic book words. You can also paint on the mouth portion of your favorite character so that it looks like you are part of the character when you wear the mask. If you don’t want to be crafty, then there are still items you can purchase that should make the holiday even more enjoyable.

3. Dress Up
Another way to keep yourself protected while having a little fun during the holiday is to go the extra mile by dressing up. This holiday is known to be a great time for cosplayers to show off their stuff as they venture to local comic bookstores and have some fun. You can make so many amazing cosplays on short notice that won’t cost you a fortune, so if the idea appeals to you then you might start looking for ideas or tutorials online. You might want to concentrate on costumes that cover your face, so you’ll already be masked and ready to enjoy the shopping experience.

4. Binge Your Favorite Comics
When it comes to preparing for the holiday, one of the best things you can do is binge some of your favorite comic books. You might set up a marathon list a week prior to the holiday so you can really make the most out of it all. Although you can pretty much binge-read anything, you might choose comics that are going to be offered for free on Comic Book Day. You can find a list online or ask your local comic book vendor, so you can choose a series that is going to be represented. If you have access to a comic website, then you might also be able to binge a new series in hopes of getting the new edition on the holiday.

5. Look for Digital Options
If you’re still not feeling comfortable about going out for Comic Book Day, then a lot of stores will have you covered. Some of the Comic Book Day specials will actually be available in digital form too. So, you can download it directly from a website to enjoy it. However, before you rely on this method, you might do a little research to find out where comic books will be offered online, so you won’t miss out on something. You might also be able to find sales on digital options that will certainly make you feel excited to add to your digital collection.

6. Watch Comic Inspired Movies
If you’re hoping to save your eyes until Comic Day, then another great option to prepare for the holiday is to watch movies based on comics. In this day and age, there are quite a few movies based around comics, which can definitely help you to find something fun. There are numerous big picture options available, which you can stream online. However, there are also many comic book-inspired movies that aren’t popular. If you really want to amp up your comic knowledge, then you might want to find one of these awesome options. You can discover all sorts of interesting film adaptions online if you’re willing to do the research. If you can’t get out for Comic Book Day, then staying home and watching movies might be an alternative to consider.

7. Share Pictures
One of the best things about Comic Book Day is taking part in the community. A lot of people love dressing up, putting on skits, or simply trying to make new friends as they wait for the free comic books to be revealed. While you’re out and about, take some fun photos with the cosplayers, or yourself with the comics or anything else relevant. Then, share your pictures on social media so other people can join in on the fun too. This will allow you to easily have some fun and help others that can’t attend enjoy the experience, too.

8. Make Your Own Comic
If you’re looking for a project, then you might want to consider making your own comic book. This will allow you to show off your creativity while also helping you to fully embrace your love of comics. You can use just about anything to create your comic as technology ensures you’re capable of anything while you can also go the traditional route. You can even bring in a team to help you enjoy the process even more while offering your idea even more room to grow.

9. Pack Snacks
Sometimes, the lines on Comic Book Day can be a little much. They might be even worse now with social distancing rules in place. This might require you to wait quite a while. So, one of the best things you can do to prevent any overspending is to pack snacks and beverages. This will prevent you from wanting to go out to eat, which might force you to spend too much. It will also allow you to easily avoid some of the vendors that might have overpriced food at larger stores. Packing water will also help to

10. Browse Social Media
If you can’t find a participating store or you find yourself housebound on Comic Book Day, then there is a good chance that social media might come to the rescue. You will be able to browse around to see what other people are doing on the special day, as well as some of the special events. However, you will also find that some people might be willing to sell or trade the comics that they get on the big day. You may even be able to find someone you know that will actually pick up a thing or two for you.

Free Comic Book Day is a highly anticipated day for so many, so don’t let it pass you by. These ten ideas will help you to expand on your experience so you can feel even more rewarded by it all. This will certainly improve on your experience and leave you eager for the next big comic book holiday.