National Comic Book Day 💥

Overview

National Comic Book Day, observed annually on September 25th, is a day dedicated to celebrating the rich history, diverse characters, and incredible artistry of comic books. It encourages fans and newcomers alike to explore the world of graphic storytelling, support creators, and appreciate the profound cultural impact comics have had on literature, film, and society.

Origin and story

The first modern American comic book, *Famous Funnies*, was released in 1933, primarily reprinting newspaper comic strips.

Superman, widely considered the first superhero, made his debut in *Action Comics #1* in June 1938, launching an entire genre.

Quick facts

• DateSeptember 25
• TypeLearning / Reading
• Great forBook clubs, Teachers, Students

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Ways to celebrate

A 10-cent comic that introduced the entire superhero genre in 1938 has since become one of the most valuable printed objects in the world, with copies of the same issue now selling for millions.

Read something

Celebrate by:

• Reading an actual comic book today instead of just watching a superhero movie.
• Visiting a local comic shop and picking up something outside your usual genre.

See how far the medium has come

Helpful resources:

• The Historic Comic Books That Introduced Superman and Captain America Just Entered the Smithsonian (Smithsonian Magazine)

Did you know?

Only about 200,000 copies of Action Comics No. 1, Superman's 1938 debut, were ever printed — and the Smithsonian's National Museum of American History now treats surviving copies as significant historical artifacts, not just collectibles.

Fun facts

• The first modern American comic book, *Famous Funnies*, was released in 1933, primarily reprinting newspaper comic strips.
• Superman, widely considered the first superhero, made his debut in *Action Comics #1* in June 1938, launching an entire genre.
• A copy of *Action Comics #1*, featuring Superman's first appearance, sold for over $6 million in April 2024, making it the most expensive comic book ever.

Sources and attribution

The Historic Comic Books That Introduced Superman and Captain America Just Entered the Smithsonian (Smithsonian Magazine)

External links may lead to third-party websites.

Continue your streak

Open one more holiday before you go to build daily momentum.

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FAQ

When is National Comic Book Day?

It is observed on September 25 each year.

What is National Comic Book Day?

National Comic Book Day, observed annually on September 25th, is a day dedicated to celebrating the rich history, diverse characters, and incredible artistry of comic books. It encourages fans and newcomers alike to explore the world of graphic storytelling, support creators, and appreciate the profound cultural impact comics have had on literature, film, and society.

How do people celebrate National Comic Book Day?

Read an actual comic book and visit a local comic shop for something outside your usual genre.

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