Free Comic Book Day is upon us again, which means it’s time to hit the local comic shop to grab some free swag. Participating stores will have a slew of free books from all the heavy hitters. From the usual suspects, like DC and Marvel, to respected niche publishers, including IDW, Dark Horse and Image Comics—there will surely be a book for just about everyone. Series like Doctor Who, Pokemon, Star Wars and SpongeBob SquarePants will be among the offerings for those who make it out. Cosplay is always encouraged, so dust off the cape and tights and get out there. (YK)

Free Comic Book Day
Sat, 10am, Free
Valleywide

Marvel fanbois need not apply. This month’s trivia night at AFK will focus exclusively on the DC Comics universe. The event will be held out on the venue’s patio and the bar will be open an hour before the questions start flying—giving patrons plenty of time to down some drinks and get their thinking juices flowing. The evening will feature a number of hero-inspired cocktails, including the Nightwing, Flash and Green Arrow. Cosplayers are welcome, as always, just be sure to leave the Deadpool getup at home. Prizes and bragging rights will go to whoever comes out on top.

DC Comics Trivia
Thu, 7pm, Free
AFKgg, San Jose

Japan Expo made its first impact into the Santa Clara Convention Center this weekend with all things Japanese art and entertainment.

Metro photographer Geoffrey Smith II snapped these shots.

The McEnery Convention Center hosted hundreds of comics fanatics who dressed up as their favorite super heroes and villans for the Big Wow! ComicFest over the weekend.

Metro photographer Geoffrey Smith II was there for an action-packed day.

The most famous man in comics, Stan “the Man” Lee has been confirmed to attend the 2013 Big Wow! ComicFest at the San Jose Convention center. The co-creator of Spider-Man and the X-Men, among other big-name superheroes, is scheduled to spend May 19 hobnobbing with fans at the festival.

However, basking in the presence of “the Man” won’t come cheap. An autograph or a photo costs $50 presale and $60 at the convention. A presale combo package including both photo and autograph is going for $100. The official Big Wow! Rumor has it that in the back rooms of the festival a pint of Stan Lee’s blood might be available in exchange for a near mint Amazing Spider-Man #1.

Big Wow! will feature a large exhibitor showcase of all things geek: comics, collectables, rare artwork, table top games, you name it. Also scheduled are cosplay contests, artist demonstrations, and comic creator interviews and panels. In addition to Stan Lee, several other comic industry professionals will attend the two-day event, including Neal Adams (Superman, Batman),Tony Daniel (Batman), Adam Hughes (Fables, Wonder Woman), Writer Brian Azzarello (100 Bullets, Joker) and Toshio Maeda (Urotsukidoji & La Blue Girl).

More info.

Dan Vado, owner of comics and local music hub SLG Art Boutiki, announce that his shop and local music venue will move from its longtime home in the SoFA District to a new location near the Alameda, across from Mexico Lindo, next to Freebirds.

A select few who have the new location at at 44 Race Stree are excited for the potential to host live music, an issue that Vado was concerned with when he announced SLG would have to move from its current SoFA District location. Though no longer positioned in downtown San Jose to gain foot traffic from South First Fridays the new location is surrounded by businesses that complement the interests of people who already frequent SLG, such as The Usuals, Black & Brown, Current Tattooing and more.

The new location could host shows at the front of the venue spaces and the back area has potential green rooms, storage space, a kitchen, and load-in-load out areas, but Vado is holding off on discussing details until he gets closer to moving and reopening at the new location.

The current Art Boutiki on Market Street has two final shows on March 15th and the 16th (details TBA) before the move.