Two-Day “Pop Market & Free Comic Book Day Weekend” in Elmira Heights

ELMIRA HEIGHTS, N.Y. (WETM) – This Saturday and Sunday, the American Legion in Elmira Heights is hosting a “ Pop Market & Free Comic Book Day Weekend. ” It will feature dozens of comic book authors, artists, card game tournaments, video gaming, vendors and more.

“There are times when I feel like we’re spoiled because of the amount of talented people that we have in our backyard,” said organizer Jared Aiosa. “Come and hang out with them.” Aiosa is also the owner of Heroes Comic Shop in Elmira Heights. He has been organizing Pop Markets and other events in our area since 2019.

For the first time the Pop Market is being expanded to two days. On Saturday, it will run from 11am-4pm. On Sunday it will be open from noon-3pm. The American Legion is located at 236 Scottwood Ave.

“It’s a two-day event this Saturday. May 4th, which is also Star Wars Day, and Sunday, May 5th, which is “Revenge of the Fifth also,” said organizer Jared Aiosa.

“So, what are you into? Do you like to read? Cool, we’ve got comics for you,” said Aiosa.” Do you like to game? We have gaming tournaments thanks to “The Game Shoppe” in Corning . We have a slew of creators. We’ve got authors artists, comic creators, fine art. We have just a beautiful variety of talented creators. The pop market is for everyone. It’s free admission. It’s for all ages and family friendly. “

Aiosa said the event is being set up across two-days to give people more opportunities to stop by.

“We know this weekend is incredibly busy,” said Aiosa. “There are a bunch of events going on. So, we decided this year that we want to be helpful. We want to offer an amazing opportunity for people to pick up comics, receive comics as gifts, to meet talented creators.”

“We didn’t want to create this sense of urgency, you know, with one day. Free Comic Book Day has always been the first Saturday in May for over 18 plus years, Last year we had a really good turnout, but we missed people. People have commitments, people are incredibly busy. The sun comes out and every weekend is stacked. So, we decided this year let’s make it convenient. Let’s be helpful. Let’s be inclusive and encourage people to say what day works for you. Do you have time Saturday from 11 to four to join us? Do you have time Sunday from noon to three to join us to pick up comics, play some Pokémon and meet your new favorite author? We want to make it happen. We want to be helpful. It’s gonna be a great time.”

For updates on the Pop Market you can check out the event’s Facebook page.

You can also follow Heroes Comic Shop in Elmira Heights .

You can watch the full interview with Jared Aiosa below:

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