In a Pop Culture of Chaos, the Local Comic Shop is Your Lighthouse

Hey story lovers and art aficionados, what’s poppin’?! Let’s talk.

It’s a wild, weird, and sometimes wonderful time to be a pop culture fan, isn’t it? We’ve all seen the headlines. Box office numbers are a rollercoaster, our favorite streaming shows live in constant peril, and even the giants of the comic book industry are navigating some serious upheaval with distributors like Diamond Comics tied up in a bankruptcy.

It’s enough to make even the most dedicated fan feel a little lost in the tempestuous seas where big business meets personal escapism.

It’s easy to get discouraged, but we’re here to tell you that in the middle of all that noise, there is a beacon of hope, a constant in the storm: your local comic shop. And there’s a day coming up that’s all about celebrating that.

Mark your calendars, because Saturday, September 27th, 2025, is Local Comic Shop Day (LCS Day)!

Now, you might be thinking, “Isn’t that just Free Comic Book Day?” While FCBD and Halloween ComicFest are fantastic events for bringing new fans into the fold, Local comic shop Day is something different, something special. First held in 2015, LCS Day was created by ComicsPRO, the trade organization for comic book retailers, to be a day specifically for us — the dedicated, passionate community that makes these shops the cultural hubs they are.

Instead of just free comics, LCS Day is a brick-and-mortar-centered event where publishers like Marvel, DC, and others release a curated selection of highly collectible, exclusive items that you can only purchase at participating shops like ours. We’re talking about things like:

Exclusive Variant Covers: Get your hands on a special edition of a hot new title with artwork you won’t find anywhere else.
Early Releases: Sometimes, you can buy a comic a full month before its official street date.
Celebrate your interest in a the culture you share with others locally, catch up with old friends, make some new friends, and have fun.

This year, ComicsPRO is revamping the event to focus even more on the idea of the local comic shop as a “third base” — that mythical spot that isn’t work and isn’t home but is just as important. It’s a celebration of the community, the friendships, and the shared passion that we’ve all built together around the modern myths we hold so dearly. It’s your last stop before home.

In a world of digital downloads and corporate shake-ups, The POP! Shop is more than just a retail store and event venue. We are your lighthouse. We are the place where you can discover your next favorite creator, debate the latest plot twist, and share your love for these incredible stories with people who just get it.

So, when September 27th rolls around, pop in to see the guests, indulge in the sales, and discover something new. Let’s celebrate the art, the stories, and the incredible community that makes this all worthwhile.

Let’s show the world that the local comic shop is, and always will be, here for you.

We’ll keep the lights on for you.

Article by Matt Morgan

POP! Quiz: Which soda-based superhero has built a cultlike following through his quirky media?
a) Professor Pepper
b) Pepsi Man
c) Dr. Dew
d) The Sprite

Artists and Creators Guests

Zane M. Fannin – Local Commission Artist and Creator

Zane is a talented commission and concept artist with a focus on creating stunning comic book style artwork. With a lifelong passion for comics and graphic novels, he has been drawing since he first picked a pencil at 18 months old and has never stopped honing his craft. A Huron native, Zane, attended Ohio University where he further advanced his skills. Zane is working on several independent comics, including an exciting superhero anthology that is set to be launched by the end of the year. His dedication to his art and love for storytelling is evident in every piece he creates. You can find Zane and his work on Instagram at… [ Click Here ]

Steven Myers – Self Published Comic Writer / Artist

Steven Myers is an accomplished art teacher based in northern Ohio who applies his artistic talents to a variety of mediums. In addition to teaching, he channels his creativity into crafting polymer clay statues, painting, and drawing in both pastel and ink. With a keen interest in comics and pop culture, his artistic creations often revolve around these themes. Steven is not only a skilled artist but also a talented writer. He is the creator of his own mini-comic called the F.E.D.s and two webcomics, namely “Mutant Elf” and “Mutant Animals vs. Zombies Vs. Machines vs. Humans”. He is also a regular contributor to several anthologies, showcasing his ability to collaborate with others and produce outstanding works of art.

Learn more about Steven Myers by visiting his blog… [ Click Here ]

Costumed Performing Guests

Greg Lopez as Darth Vader

Embrace the power of the dark side when you discover Darth Vader awaiting your arrival at The POP Shop. When you enter the store on Free Comic Book Day you may find yourself face to face with the crushing might of the Galactic Empire’s most powerful enforcer, Darth Vader. Don’t worry too much though, if you undergo an interrogation in the presence of Lord Vader and give in to the dark side of the Force, you’ll discover Local Cosplayer Gregory Lopez, who looks and sounds just like Vader. Lopez is a fan favorite at The POP Shop, Star Wars fans young and old are awed by his presence. Bring your cell phone, you will want to get a photo of with Greg or should be say Darth Vader!

Eric Simmons as The Red Power Ranger

Feel the protection of the Super Morphed Red Power Ranger and join his squad for Free Comic Book Day at The POP Shop. Eric Simmons, who goes by the name Schrye both online and professionally, is an avid fan of pop culture, comic books, gaming, and all things geek/nerd-related. He hails from Ashland, Ohio and has been immersed in this culture his entire life. In 2012, Eric founded The Nerd Rave on Facebook, which has since become a go-to hub for nerd/geek content in a neutral space that everyone can enjoy. The Nerd Rave produces various forms of content, including videos of unboxings and interviews. Eric’s passion for nerd/geek culture has also led him to expand his presence online as a cosplayer, gamer, and streamer. The Nerd Rave has grown to nearly 3000 followers. Eric loves meeting new people and sharing his passion with the world, and he is excited to meet others who share his interests at the upcoming Free Comic Book Day. You can find more information about Schrye and his work at Linktree [ Click Here ], Facebook [ Click Here ], or Instagram [ Click Here ].

Kyle Davis as Spider-Man

Times are tough, but not so tough with Spider-Man around. Bring the kids and cellphones to take pictures with Ol’ Web-Head himself. Local Cosplayer, Kyle Davis, will be visiting The POP Shop on HCBE as Spider-Man. Kyle has been visiting our store on FCBD for eight years now and has always been one of the biggest attractions. You’ll be Amazed at how great his costume and antics mimic the real hero.

Vendors Guests

Crystal Tokyo Creations

Niki, the owner of Crystal Tokyo Creations, started her artistic journey as a hobby that eventually blossomed into a small business. She specializes in creating a wide range of unique items, including hair accessories, keychains, and jewelry made from various materials. Her creations offer a fun and creative twist to the typical offerings found at The POP Shop, giving customers the chance to find something truly one-of-a-kind for themselves or as a gift. With her talent and passion for creativity, Niki’s Crystal Tokyo Creations are sure to add a touch of whimsy and charm to anyone’s

Tyranno Treasures

Jen Davis of Tyranno Treasures has been a guest at The POP Shop’s Free Comic Book Day event for over ten years. With a specialization in creating top-notch vinyl decals, home signs, and mugs, the team boasts over 12 years of expertise in graphic design and regularly updates their design selection. Great for adults and kids, these vinyl decals are ideal for personalizing laptops, cars, and almost any surface, perfect addition to anyone’s decoration collection.