A number of promotional tie-ins are building Free Comic Book Day awareness in the run-up to the event.  Ebay has a Free Comic Book Day link from its 'collectibles' storefront, which ties the most popular shopping destination on the Internet to the FCBD site, with its store locator and info on the freebies and other elements of the event. 

 

Sci Fi Channel will be participating in Free Comic Book Day again this year, with on-air and on-line announcements, and free promotional items for participating stores to give to fans.  The on-air announcements will be via 'banner ads,' during its top rated show, Stargate SG-1, which airs in three hour blocks on Monday evenings.  The announcements direct fans to the FCBD Website to find out where to get free comics.  Between 650,000 and 1 million fans were reached during the April 14th broadcast.  Sci Fi Channel will also promote the event on its Website and in its e-mail newsletter, which goes to over 400,000 names.  Sci Fi Channel will be giving 100 free bags and backer boards to each participating retailer, branded with Sci Fi channel marks and information. 

 

Cartoon Network is promoting FCBD on its Adult Swim Website during April, with a link to the FCBD Website and its store locator. 

 

The total weight of the promotional support for Free Comic Book Day seems to us significantly larger than it was last year, which coupled with the positive word of mouth that last year's event generated, provides an opportunity for an even bigger national and international event this year.