This article was contributed by community member Derek Barnes.

Bill’s Bullpen in Hollister is one of the thousands of comic book shops around the world celebrating the largest event in the comic book industry on Saturday, May 4: Free Comic Book Day. Each year, thousands of participating stores give over six million comic books to fans to introduce them to the wonders of comics.

“Free Comic Book Day is a great event for the whole community,” said Bill Mifsud, owner of Bill’s Bullpen. “Bringing everyone together, finding books for everyone to enjoy, and seeing people of all ages—children, teens, and adults—sharing our passion for comics is incredible. Even if you’ve never picked up a comic book, we want to welcome everyone to Bill’s Bullpen on May 4, because there are so many amazing comics this year and we can’t wait to share them.”

This is the 19th year Bill’s Bullpen celebrates Free Comic Book Day, offering the community a fun, family-oriented event where everyone can find a comic they’ll enjoy, including taking pictures with your favorite superheroes and a raffle with great prizes.

“With awesome titles like Avengers and Spider-Man, we’re sure there’s a comic book for everyone,” Mifsud said. “Comics are a fun and enduring form of entertainment for readers of all ages to dive into as imagination comes to life. Whether it be popular comics, film, television shows, or video games, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.”

Regular updates, information about comic books and a list of participating publishers and their free comics are all online at www.freecomicbookday.com.

Free Comic Book Day kicks off May 4 from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. at Bill’s Bullpen,  207 Fourth Street in Hollister. Call (831) 636-1180 or follow go to the Bill’s Bullpen Facebook page for more information.