Empires Comics Vault

Creative Women Mini-Con Exhibitor Application

2019-06-22T19:28:00.000-07:00

September 28th 2019

We are now excepting applications for this years Creative Women Mini-Con (CWMC). Artists, writers, crafters, painters, sculptors, if it is creative we want you to join us for a day celebrating the creative women of our community.

Check out last year's event.

Fill out this year's application.

The Tube Family says Empire's Comics Vault's "shop was awesome"

2019-06-14T22:42:00.000-07:00

We were surprised and delighted to have the stars of The Tube Family--the beloved YouTubers--attend our 2019 Free Comic Book Day Festival. Check out their coverage of our event and their awesome free comic book haul.

Please help: While they didn't mention us by name, we're excited about the coverage. We added a comment, so if you're a fan of our shop, please consider going to that video, selecting "Sort By" near the Comments section, then "Newest First," giving our comment a Thumbs Up, and even Replying to our comment to help get the word out. And thank you in advance.

Our favorite part? When they say:

“IT WAS REALLY COOL. THIS SHOP WAS AWESOME BECAUSE OF THAT PRO WRESTLING, FACE PAINTING, BALLOON TYING, RAFFLE ENTERING!”

From this Sacramento comic book shop to you famous YouTubers, The Tube Family, we say Thank You.

Karl Kerschel LIVE + Moonstruck + Paint Night

2019-04-09T12:50:00.002-07:00

This week's events are upon us. It all starts tonight.

TUE | 6:00 PM | Apr. 9, 2019

Karl Kerschel Interview

INTER -VIEWS Series

We're beyond excited to interview Karl Kerschl of famed comics, Gotham Academy and ISOLA and The Abominable Charles Christopher. (Add to FB calendar)

As a pro artist for more than 20 years, he's worked for all the big comic houses, Neflix, and more. Including our Vaulty Award, he's won the Eisner and the Joe Shuster.

THU | 6:30 PM | Apr. 11, 2019

Graphic Novel Discussion: Moonstruck

Join our discussion of Moonstruck! All are invited. No fee. This is the first chapter of the brand-new, all-ages, magical, coffee-laden adventure from Lumberjanes creator GRACE ELLIS and talented newcomer SHAE BEAGLE. (Add to FB calendar)

FRI | 6:30 PM | Apr. 12, 2019

Happy Paint Night at Empire's Comics Vault

Paint this super-cute chick in the rain and take home your first (or second, or fitth...) masterpiece. All tools and instruction provided. Class fills up, so sign up online today. $40. Class limited to 15 participants. (Add to FB calendar)

COMING SOON

04/16 - Tim Daniel Google Hangout Interview
04/19 - Free Movie Night at Empires - Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan
04/20 - Sac BB April Meeting At Empire Comics
04/20 - Fairlady Signing with Brian Schirmer
04/23 - Aditya Bidikar Google Hangout Interview
04/24 - Last Wednesday LIVE MODEL at Empires with Kristy Cha

VIEW ALL OUR UPCOMING EVENTS

Have you seen our weekly comics show? Watch it here.

Oh, hey. What's up? I'm a superhero. - Shazam! (and Dylan) LOL

2019-03-31T13:45:00.004-07:00

Here it comes. We're one month closer to Free Comic Book Day Festival. But before then, we have some fun headed your way. Read all about it below.

April 2019
Artists of Free Comic Book Day

All month long the Art Gallery at Empire's Comics Vault will feature works of art by exhibitors you'll be able to meet at FCBD Festival in May! (Add to FB calendar)

TUE | 6:00 PM | Apr. 2, 2019
Ken Garing--Online Interview

Join us to chitchat with comics creator Ken Garing. He writes and draws and creates worlds of wonder, namely the acclaimed comic book series PLANETOID (2012) and PLANETOID: PRAXIS (2017) published by Image Comics. His latest creator-owned project is the ongoing fantasy series GOGOR. He has also created comics for IDW and DC. (Add to FB calendar)

THU | 7:00 PM | Apr. 4, 2019
Shazam! Movie Crew

The Movie Crew is on the movie and we're all off to see Shazam! Go ahead. We know you want to shout it. :D (Add to FB calendar)

SAT | 9:00 AM | May 4, 2019
FCBD Festival 2019

Don't miss it. Best day of the year. Learn all about Free Comic Book Day Festival 2019 in this year's Complete Guide to FCBD Festival 2019. (Add to FB calendar)

COMING SOON

04/09 - Karl Kerschl Google Hangout Interview
04/11 - Graphic Novel Discussion - Moonstruck
04/12 - Happy Paint Evening at Empire's

VIEW ALL OUR UPCOMING EVENTS

Have you seen our weekly comics show? Watch it here.

2019 Map for Free Comic Book Day Festival

2019-03-15T17:54:00.000-07:00

We're taking over the parking lot for all of our Free Comic Book Day Festival activities. Read all about the event on our Complete Guide to Free Comic Book Day Festival 2019. AND here's the map to help you figure out parking

Plus, this year, we're planning to have our exhibitors out-of-doors! It's going to be an amazing comic book festival. Coming soon, we'll post complete festival details.

Let's talk with The Baboon's Creator Jamie Jones

2019-03-09T18:35:00.000-08:00

Nothing but fun waiting for you this week! Here's the lineup.

SUN | 12:00 PM | Mar. 10, 2019
Heroes Fan Experience Ticket Sales

Get your tickets for the Hardly Heroes Fan Experience for the Avengers: Endgame movie--and make sure you don’t miss out on in-theater festivities! With Hardly Heroes you'll even get your seats before the general public! The two movie events will be April 25 at 6pm and April 27 at 10:30am. (Add to FB calendar)

TUE | 6:00 PM | Mar. 12, 2019
Jamie Jones Interview--LIVE Online

Jamie Jones is a comics creator with an exciting new, all-ages, project in the works, called "The Baboon." We're excited to talk to him about this new project. Find the campaign on Kickstarter. (Add to FB calendar)

THU | 6:30 PM | Mar. 14, 2019
Graphic Novel Discussion: DeptH

From master storyteller Matt Kindt comes a tale of underwater intrigue. Let's talk about it. (Add to FB calendar)

FRI | 7:00 PM | Mar. 15, 2019
Movie Night at Empire's Comics Vault

We have another classic movie headed your way and more popcorn too. Come out for a good time. We have couches. (Add to FB calendar)

SAT | 11:00 AM | Mar. 16, 2019
Sac BrickBuilders Meetup

It's been a little while since our last movie crew--and now it's time! Marvelous things are in store. Hope we'll see you there. (Add to FB calendar)

SAT | 2:00 PM | Mar. 16, 2019
Card Game BETA-Play!

In Alchemental, there can be only one Keeper of the Celestial Sphere. Do you have what it takes to forge the Philosopher's Stone and take the Celestial Throne? Whoever forges the Philosopher's Stone first WINS! (Add to FB calendar) This new game comes from the mind of talented artist, writer, professor, art historian Kristine Balog!

SUN | 1:00 PM | Mar. 17, 2019
Carrie Alskar Art Reception

Come out and meet the artist behind the art! Illustrator/painter Carrie Alskar brings amazing creations to life. Carrie is our artist of the month for March. (Add to FB calendar)

COMING SOON

03/26 - Tim Daniel Google Hangout Interview
03/27 - Last Wednesday LIVE MODEL at Empires with Neena Breeland Cope
04/01 - FCBD Guests Art Gallery - April
04/04 - Shazam Movie Crew
04/09 - Karl Kerschl Google Hangout Interview
04/11 - Graphic Novel Discussion - Moonstruck
04/12 - Happy Paint Evening at Empire's

VIEW ALL OUR UPCOMING EVENTS

Have you seen our weekly comics show? Watch it here.

ISOLA Colorist Michele Assarasakorn

2019-02-27T06:51:00.000-08:00

It's already a banner year for us! We interviewed ISOLA writer Brenden Fletcher, and now we're going to interview ISOLA colorist Michele Assarasakorn! All that and more...

TUE | 6:00 PM | Feb. 26, 2019

Online Interview: Michele Assarasakorn

Ben talks with illustrator and colourist Michele Assarasakorn. Michele is the master colourist on one of our favorite books, Isola. And we are hyped about talking with her. The LIVE interview will take place on Empire's YouTube Channel. (Add to FB calendar)

WED | 6:00 PM | Feb. 27, 2019

Cosplay Model Sketch

We're bringing in cosplay model Myke Soler for this months sketch. $10 at the door. The model thanks you in advance. (Add to FB calendar)

MARCH

Artist of the Month:

Carrie Alskar

All month long come in to enjoy the gorgeous art of Carrie Alskar. Works are on sale. (Add to FB calendar)

COMING SOON

03/01 - Art Gallery at Empires with Carrie Alskar
03/07 - Captain Marvel Movie Crew
03/08 - Happy Paint Evening (Sign up today, limited space)
03/14 - Graphic Novel Discussion - Dept. H
03/15 - Free Movie Night at Empires - Raising Arizona
03/27 - LIVE Model Sketch with Neena Breeland Cope

VIEW ALL OUR UPCOMING EVENTS

Have you seen our weekly comics show? Watch it here.

Let's talk about Wet Moon

2019-02-20T06:27:00.000-08:00

This week we'll discuss Sophie Campbell's Wet Moon graphic novel. Also, join us offsite for board games and craft beer. Details below.

TUE | 7:00 PM | Feb. 19, 2019

Game Night

It's the 3rd Tuesday of the month--and you know what that means! Craft beer and tabletop games. Empire's Comics Vault takes the show on the road to host a night of fun. Children welcome until 8 p.m. No entry fee & no registration needed! (Add to FB calendar)

THU | 6:30 PM | Feb. 21, 2019

Graphic Novel Discussion

An unusually usual day-to-day story in the Deep South, set in the gothic, swampy southern town of Wet Moon, a place fraught with lousy love lives, teen angst, and shadowy locals. As Cleo Lovedrop heads off for college at the local art school, she's haunted by her melancholic past: a lost love, a lost child. (Add to FB calendar)

SAT | 7:00 PM | Feb. 23, 2019

Sacramento Roller Derby Home Season Opener

Join us at The Rink for a doubleheader featuring two roller derby bouts. First, the B team, Bruin Trouble, will face Sonoma, followed by the A team, Capital Maulstars, taking on Santa Cruz. Plus, there will be a bar, merchandise, and raffle prizes. Tickets available in the shop. (Add to FB calendar)

COMING SOON

02/26 - Michele Assarasakorn Google Hangout Interview
02/27 - LIVE Cosplay Model Sketch Night
03/01 - Art Gallery at Empires with Carrie Alskar

VIEW ALL OUR UPCOMING EVENTS

Have you seen our weekly comics show? Watch it here.

Complete Guide to Free Comic Book Day Festival 2019

2019-02-19T23:20:00.001-08:00

NOTE: This post will continually be updated until the day of the event.
LAST UPDATED: APRIL 27, MARCH 31, MARCH 7

On Saturday, May 4, 2019 we’re throwing a party to celebrate comic books and the Sacramento creative and geek community—and you’re invited!

Our official event hashtags are:
#empirescomics
#fcbdfest19

Not only that, but we’re giving away 20,000 free comic books. The event includes:

Charity raffle!
Supreme Pro Wresting—Live!
Roller derby athletes!
League for Hope Cosplayers!
Rebel Legion!
501st Legion members!
Face painting!
Balloon art!
Food trucks and more!

2019 Free Comic Book Day Festival

DATE: May 4, 2019
(Add this event to your FB calendar)
Doors open at:

8 a.m. for Savings Club Members
9 a.m. for new guests

STOREWIDE SALE

25% OFF Graphic novels, collected editions, toys, hot sauce, variant wall (variants and back issues on the wall), and variants in the boxes behind the counter.
NOTE: art on the art wall is not on sale, but is available as priced.

Back issues
(not including back issues on the Variant Wall)

IF PRICE is $15.01+ = SALE is 75% OFF
PRICE $1-5 = ON SALE FOR .50c
PRICE $5.01-10 = ON SALE FOR $1
PRICE $10.01-15 = ON SALE FOR $2

FCBD FESTIVAL FEATURES AND GUESTS

Here's a list of *confirmed* guests for this year's festival. MORE TO COME!

Food

Wandering Boba - our festival favorite returns!
Good Jo Coffee - this mobile coffee trailer brings great coffee to you! And by good coffee, we mean organic, locally roasted, fair trade coffee.

Artists and Writers

Nick Dragotta, Artist, Co-Creator, East of West

Nick Dragotta - East of West. ’Nuff said.

Justin Greenwood, Artist, The Last Seige, Stumptown,
and others

Justin Greenwood - Illustrator extraordinaire best known for his work on comic book series like The Last Siege, The Fuse, Stumptown, and Wasteland.
Jared Konopitski - His works have been exhibited or featured across the country and around the world, but he calls Sacramento home.
Melissa Pagluica - Her art will transport you above the clouds and delight your soul.
Julie Okahara - Her art makes us squeal with delight!
Jen Monson - Whimsy, fascination, and geekery. We’ve never seen anyone traverse diverse media as adeptly as Jen.
*NEW* Exhibitors just added (below)!
Kyrun Silva, Taurus Comics - Comic book creator, writer, and artist bring comic books to life in the real world.
Ghost Thunder Collective with David Andry, Hannah Moore, Christopher Alvarez - A joint project. Arts. Comics. Crafts.
Dan Bethel - A simultaneous comicker/English professor/podcaster doing his best to not screw up. Comic book creator of Long John. Half of the mastermind team behind one of Sacramento's best kept secret podcasts, For All Intents And Purposes.
Kristine Balog - Author of Caravaggio Of Oil and Blood. Comic book creator (writer and artist) of Caravaggio's Darkness.
Rachel Strum - Owner of Citrus Atelier, local wand-maker Rachel Strum handcrafts fantasy wands and whimsical gifts.
Lee Nordling - Graphic novel and comics innovator.
Mach Yeager - Art director, graphic designer and creative consultant in Game & Graphic Design, Illustration, and Animation Production.
*NEW* Exhibitor added 3/31/2019!
Crystaline Owen - Painter. Owner of Hiraeth Studios.
Amanda Wagner - Jewelry Maker. Best geek jewelry you'll come across. Easily top 10.
Heather Merrifield - Action Photographer, Photo Manipulator, and Graphic artist.
L Merrifield - Artist. Elizabeth experiments with all kinds of media, including charcoal, pastels, markers, pencil, watercolor and acrylics. She hopes to eventually sell her art and possibly work as a graphic designer or animator.
Chris Cinder - Artist, Painter, Sculptor. Creator of Hakobots. Painter of painty things.
Ramon Villalobos - Artist for Marvel and DC Comics.

Movie night with Sacramento Roller Derby

2019-02-13T06:22:00.000-08:00

It's a wonderful week to be a comic shop. Here's what's happening this week.

FRI | 7:00 PM | Feb. 15, 2019

Movie Night

Join us to watch The Producers. Plus, trivia, candy, popcorn, and the Sacramento Roller Derby's athletes! Plus, a special deal on tickets to their February 23rd opening bout. Need we say more? (Add to FB calendar)

SAT | 11:00 AM | Feb. 16, 2019

Sac Brick Builders Meetup

Join us for the Jan meeting of Sac BB! This month's theme is "Favorites"! Bring your favorite build or anything else that's your "favorite" and LEGO-related! (Add to FB calendar)

SAT | 5:00 PM | Feb. 16, 2019

Julie Okahara Art Reception

Join us for a meet and greet with artist Julie Okahara. (Add to FB calendar)

TUE | 6:00 PM | Feb. 19, 2019

Empire's Comics' Game Night

On February 19, we'll meet up at SacTown Brewery for an evening of friendly competition, childhood giddiness and great craft beer! Hosted by Empire's Comics Vault, it's Board Game Night! Feel free to bring your own game or to use one that's already there.

Children welcome until 8 p.m. No entry fee & no registration needed. (Add to FB calendar)

COMING SOON

02/21 - Graphic Novel Discussion - Wet Moon
02/23 - Sacramento Roller Derby Home Season Opener
02/26 - Michele Assarasakorn Google Hangout Interview
02/27 - LIVE Cosplay Model Sketch Night
03/01 - Art Gallery at Empires with Carrie Alskar

VIEW ALL OUR UPCOMING EVENTS

Have you seen our weekly comics show? Watch it here.

Thoughts on Matt Durand's The Dark Gun

2019-02-07T11:37:00.001-08:00

Written by Matt Durand; Art by Taylan Kurtulus

Matt Durand's The Dark Gun will haunt you and inundate your mind with questions about violence and how it’s passed through generations, or if it’s something that is passed on. And they’re good questions.

Taylan Kurtulus' art feels bleak, no doubt by intention. We don't recall experiencing his art anywhere else, but we can tell you it works in this title. It’s a dark book, colored darkly, and full of shadows. It may even leave you with a sickly feeling.

A mind full of questions, a sickly feeling—and perhaps that was it’s intention. As much as we hope there’s a second issue, we hope there is isn’t.

Read this comic at your own risk. It just might leave you with a hole in the heart.

But in case you're wondering...

There is a second issue.

You can help bring the 2nd issue to life by taking action to support to the Kickstarter campaign. It only has a relatively few days to make its funding goal.

Connect with Matt on Twitter.

Connect with Taylan on Twitter.

Hanging Out with Writer Brenden Fletcher

2019-02-04T11:14:00.001-08:00

We got what you want this week -- and every week. But let's focus for a moment, haha. Tuesday night, we're interviewing comics and animation writer Brenden Fletcher -- and you can join LIVE! Friday we'll learn to paint and take home our very own masterpiece. And all month long, Julie Okahara! Need we say more?

TUE | 6:00 PM | Feb. 05, 2019

Online Interview: Brenden Fletcher

Sit in as we talk to comics and animation writer Brenden Fletcher, the writing-mind behind Isola, Motor Crush, Batgirl of Burnside, and more. The LIVE interview will take place on Empire's YouTube Channel. (Add to FB calendar)

FRI | 6:30 PM | Feb. 08, 2019

Happy Paint Night

In one session we'll sit down and paint koi. It'll be ready to take home and frame. Everything you need will be supplied, including instruction. $40. 10 seats available. Sign up online today. (Add to FB calendar)

FEBRUARY

Artist of the Month: Julie Okahara

All month long come in to enjoy the pure imagination of artist Julie Okahara. Works are on sale. (Add to FB calendar)

COMING SOON

02/01 - Artist of the Month: Julie Okahara
02/16 - Art Reception with Julie Okahara
02/21 - Graphic Novel Discussion - Wet Moon
02/23 - Sacramento Roller Derby Home Season Opener
02/27 - Cosplay Model Sketch: Myke Soler (Star Wars theme)

VIEW ALL OUR UPCOMING EVENTS

Have you seen our weekly comics show? Watch it here.

Happy National Hot Sauce Week

2019-01-14T19:49:00.002-08:00

This week: game night, movie night, and a weekend full of hot sauce and LEGO.

TUE | 6:00 PM | Jan. 15, 2019

Empire's Comics' Game Night

Join us tomorrow at SacTown Brewery for an evening of friendly competition, childhood giddiness and great craft beer! Hosted by Empire's Comics Vault, it's Board Game Night! Come one or come all for an evening of games ranging from Cards Against Humanity to Munchkin. If you have a rad game at home, feel free to bring it with you and share!

Children welcome until 8 p.m. No entry fee & no registration needed. (Add to FB calendar)

FRI | 7:00 PM | Jan. 18, 2019

Movie Night

Trivia, candy, popcorn, and the Blues Brothers! Need we say more? (Add to FB calendar)

SAT | 11:00 PM | Jan. 19, 2019

Happy National Hot Sauce Day

Ok, sure, we're a few days early. National Hot Sauce Day is January 22, but we are doing something special beforehand so that you're ready! Buy any 1 hot sauce and get another of equal or lesser value FREE! It is that simple. One day only! (Add to FB calendar)

SAT | 11:00 AM | Jan. 19, 2019

Sac Brick Builders Meetup

Join us for the Jan meeting of Sac BB! This month's theme is "Favorites"! Bring your favorite build or anything else that's your "favorite" and LEGO-related! (Add to FB calendar)

COMING SOON

01/25 - Comedy Night
01/30 - Live Model Sketch
02/01 - Artist of the Month: Julie Okahara
02/08 - Happy Paint Evening - Get your spot today.
02/15 - Movie Night - The Producers

VIEW ALL OUR UPCOMING EVENTS

Have you seen our weekly comics show? Watch it here.

Let's go 2019! This week's events

2019-01-08T20:35:00.001-08:00

We're back in action, bringing you all the things you love and more -- comics, cosplay sketching, movie nights, and more.

Here's what's going on this week!

THU | 6:30 PM | Jan. 10, 2019

Comics Discussion: Isola

An evil spell has been cast on the Queen of Maar, and her Captain of the Guard will do anything to reverse it. Their only hope lies on an island half a world away-a place known in myth as Isola, land of the dead. Collects ISOLA #1-5. (Add to FB calendar)

Gotham Academy creators BRENDEN FLETCHER and KARL KERSCHL reunite with series colorist MSASSYK and letterer ADITYA BIDIKAR for a breathtaking fantasy adventure two decades in the making.

Recommended for fans of Studio Ghibli and the work of Hayao Miyazaki.

FRI | 6:30 PM | Jan. 11, 2019

Happy Paint Evening

We provide everything you need, including instruction, to paint the scene pictured here. Cost is $40. Participation limited to 12. Sign up online. (Add to FB calendar)

SAT | 7:00 PM | Jan. 12, 2019

Live Music: The Little Army

The Little Army is guitarist/vocalist Evan and drummer Tyler. We're excited to have them in the shop tomorrow night. Come in and enjoy some good music. Get a taste of The Little Army on their Bandcamp page. (Add to FB calendar)

TUE | 6:00 PM | Jan. 15, 2019

Empire's Comics' Game Night

AT SacTown Brewery! Every third Tuesday, enjoy an evening of friendly competition, childhood giddiness and great craft beer! Hosted by Empire's Comics Vault, it's Board Game Night! Come one or come all for an evening of games ranging from Cards Against Humanity to Munchkin. If you have a rad game at home, feel free to bring it with you and share!

Children welcome until 8 p.m. No entry fee & no registration needed. (Add to FB calendar)

COMING SOON

01/18 - Movie Night: The Blues Brothers
01/19 - N ational Hot Sauce Day (early)
01/19 - S ac Brick Builders
01/25 - Comedy Night
01/30 - Live Model Sketch

VIEW ALL OUR UPCOMING EVENTS

Have you seen our weekly comics show? Watch it here.

2018-12-16T19:21:00.001-08:00

The year is rapidly coming to a close, but we're not slowing down! Here's what's going on this week in the shop.

TUE | 6:00 PM | Dec. 18, 2018

Empire's Comics Vault's GAME NIGHT

Grab a board game, some players, and a cold beverage and let's kiss 2018 goodbye with some good times with good friends. See you there. (Add to FB calendar)

FRI | 7:00 PM | Dec. 21, 2018

MOVIE NIGHT: DIE HARD

Join us for the best holiday movie of all time! Don't believe us. Come watch. Free. Free popcorn also. (Add to FB calendar)

VOTE TODAY

2018's Best In Comics

Vote in Cracking the Vault Podcast's annual comics awards. CAST YOUR VOTE.

FINAL WEEK: NOW through December 19, 2018

Toys for Children's Receiving Home of Sacramento

It's for the kids. Bring a toy, or buy any toy at 25% OFF if donated. Select toys for donation are 50% OFF. (Add to your Facebook calendar.) Explore other ways to donate at CRHS's website.

COMING SOON

12/24 - Open Christmas Eve (for a little while)
12/25 - Happy Holidays (Closed)
12/31 - New Year's Eve (Closed)
01/01 - Closed
01/01 - Art Gallery at Empires with Melissa Pagluica
01/10 - Graphic Novel Discussion - Isola

VIEW ALL OUR UPCOMING EVENTS

Have you seen our weekly comics show? Watch it here.

Nooligan's Nightwing DC Collectibles signing

2018-12-11T14:20:00.000-08:00

Always something exciting in store for you here in the shop. This week we welcome Sacramento artist Nooligan! And if you want to talk comics, join us to discuss Kate Bishop's Hawkeye. Plus painting, LEGO's, and more.

WED | 6:00 PM | Dec. 12, 2018

December Blues: nooligan x nightwing release signing

Sacramento artist Nooligan joins us for the release of his newest DC Collectibles vinyl figure -- Nightwing. Come in, meet the artist, and get your figure signed. (Add to FB calendar)

THU | 6:30 PM | Dec. 13, 2018

Comics Discussion: Kate Bishop, Hawkeye

Join us to discuss the first volume of Kate Bishop's Hawkeye. Everyone is invited. Free to attend. (Add to FB calendar)

FRI | 6:30 PM | Dec. 14, 2018

Happy Paint Evening

We provide everything you need, including instruction, to paint the scene pictured here. Cost is $40. Max participants is 15. So sign up before seats sell out. Sign up online. (Add to FB calendar)

SAT | 11:00 AM | Dec. 15, 2018

Sac Brick Builders

Bring your LEGOs and let's build! Or just check out what we're building. All are welcome -- whether you have bricks or not. (Add to FB calendar)

VOTE TODAY

2018's Best In Comics

Vote in Cracking the Vault Podcast's annual comics awards. CAST YOUR VOTE.

NOW through December 19, 2018

Toys for Children's Receiving Home of Sacramento

It's for the kids. Bring a toy, or buy any toy at 25% OFF if donated. Select toys for donation are 50% OFF. (Add to your Facebook calendar.) Explore other ways to donate at CRHS's website.

COMING SOON

12/21 - M ovie Night: Die Hard
12/24 - Open Christmas Eve (for a little while)
12/25 - Happy Holidays (Closed)
12/31 - New Year's Eve (Closed)
01/01 - Closed
01/01 - Art Gallery at Empires with Melissa Pagluica
01/10 - Graphic Novel Discussion - Isola

VIEW ALL OUR UPCOMING EVENTS

Have you seen our weekly comics show? Watch it here.

We're thankful for 2018 and You

2018-11-22T18:13:00.001-08:00

Here are 14 things we're grateful for this last year. We start with the #1 most important thing we're grateful for, and after that, the list is in no particular order. Let us know what's on your list. :) Enjoy.

YOU! All of you, the shop's patrons, make our shop a cool place to talk about comics and geek topics -- and you make it a safe place for people of all ages and ways of life.

Our official podcast, Cracking the Vault Podcast celebrates is 150th episode with a game show episode that you can play along with while you listen! They even published a special "thankful for comics" episode.

FCBD moves outside — bigger and better and we eliminated waiting in line!

Mariko Tamaki joined us at Creative Women Mini-Con 2018!

We added a new product to our shelves -- hot sauce.

First batch of shirts! And two LE totes.
First event pin! -- The Merpug, designed by local Jen Monson for Creative Women Mini-Con 2018.

Giant connect 4!
Image comics got its own section!
Happy paint night!

Brewery game night.
Expanded kids section and added young adult section.

Book signing for Sacramento's Ryan Millers' first book!

Local Artist Black Friday, Live Music, and Game Night

2018-11-19T14:58:00.003-08:00

Are you ready for Black Friday? Because it's this Friday. We will be open from 11am-8pm.

NEW THIS YEAR: Our Black Friday event will feature one-of-a-kind gifts crafted by local artists, including Jen Monson (FB), Mandy Wagner (FB), and Chris Cinder (Insta).

And here are your Black Friday deals:

35% OFF Graphic novels
40% OFF Toys, posters, and statues
*NEW: 25% OFF Hot Sauces
Back Issues $5 and under ONLY .50c
Back Issues $5.01-$10 ONLY $1
Back Issues $10.01-$15 ONLY $2
Back Issues $15.01+ 75% OFF
50% OFF Variants & Hard to Find Comics

MEMBERS: Your Power-Up Bonus can be used at Black Friday. (from our Blog)

Tuesday, November 20 - 6:00 PM

Game Night

Every third Tuesday, enjoy an evening of friendly competition, childhood giddiness, and great craft beer! Hosted offsite by Empire's Comics Vault, it's Board Game Night! (Add to your Facebook calendar.)

Tuesday, November 20 - 7:00 PM

Live Music: The Little Army

COMING SOON

12/01 - December's Featured Artist: Kelly Van Gaasbeck
12/05 - 1st Day of Toy Drive for Children's Receiving Home of Sacramento
12/08 - Kelly Van Gaasbeck Art Reception
12/13 - Graphic Novel Discussion: Hawkeye Kate Bishop

VIEW ALL OUR UPCOMING EVENTS

Have you seen our weekly comics show? Watch it here.

Introducing Super-Duper Saturday -- AND Black Friday

2018-11-12T16:35:00.004-08:00

Super-Duper Saturday is November 17, 2018.
Black Friday is November 23.
Hours: 11am-8pm

Here's what to expect:

35% OFF Graphic novels
40% OFF Toys, posters, and statues
NEW: 25% OFF Hot Sauces
Back Issues $5 and under ONLY .50c
Back Issues $5.01-$10 ONLY $1
Back Issues $10.01-$15 ONLY $2
Back Issues $15.01+ 75% OFF
50% OFF Variants & Hard to Find Comics

You're hearing it here first. This Saturday, November 17, we're celebrating Super-Duper Saturday. It's our antidote for Black Friday! You'll get our best sale of the year -- TWICE in November!

Super-Duper Saturday lets you chase the coolest sales in town on Black Friday or relax with the family, knowing you've already scored all the comics merchandise you wanted.

NEW THIS YEAR ON BLACK FRIDAY, we are celebrating locally made unique, hand-made gifts on Black Friday. You'll find one-of-a-kind gifts crafted by Jen Monson (FB), Mandy Wagner (FB), and Chris Cinder (Insta).

NEW IN 2018: And be sure to check out Rolly's Graphic Novel Sets with Tote! It's a $90 deal of #1 collected editions for only $40. Select from DC, Marvel, or indie sets. Available while supplies last. Price may vary depending on the collection, but it'll still be a spectacular deal.

MEMBERS: Watch your inbox this week for your Power Up Bonus.

Pumpkin and Costume Winners

2018-11-12T13:32:00.000-08:00

The winners are in!

The Pumpkin winners are:
- 1st place winner of $25 in regular priced back issues: P03
- 2nd place winner of $15 in regular priced back issues: P02
- 3rd place winner of $10 in regular priced back issues: P01
(View original entries here)

The Costume winners are:
- 1st place winner of $25 in regular priced back issues: C07
- 2nd place winner of $15 in regular priced back issues: C13
- 3rd place winner of $10 in regular priced back issues: C05
(View original entries here)

WINNERS: Visit Ben in the shop to collect your winnings. Please note: No cash out value. Spend under the prize amount and no change is made. Spend over the prize amount and pay the difference.

Food Drive runs November 1-17

2018-11-06T10:11:00.003-08:00

Photo credit: Iván Melenchón Serrano. More at: Bigstockphoto.com/es/search/?c=iMelenchon

We're building a Canned Food Tree!

Bring in non-expired canned goods to donate to the Sacramento Food Bank and Family Services and we'll reward you with comic books!

5 Cans = $5 Back Issues
10 Cans = $15 Back Issues

The food drive starts Nov 1 and ends November 17, 2018.

2018 Costume Entries

2018-11-03T00:12:00.001-07:00

And the entries are in! Now it's time to vote. Use the poll in the right hand column of this website to cast your vote.Voting goes through Wednesday, November 7, 2018.

2018 Pumpkin Carving Entries

2018-11-02T23:06:00.001-07:00

And the entries are in! Now it's time to vote. Use the poll in the right hand column of this website to cast your vote.Voting goes through Wednesday, November 7, 2018.

Kids trade candy for comics program - Nov. 1-10

2018-10-30T14:02:00.004-07:00

It's a quiet week at Empire's, but we're giving you a lot of chances to take home some free comic books. Down at the bottom of this post, learn how kids can trade Halloween candy for comic books (select titles, while supplies last).

But first, let's talk about two contests!

Ends Wednesday, October 31, 2018
Costume Contest

You could take home up to $50 in comic book back issues. All you have to do is submit a photo of yourself in costume by Midnight, October 31! Details on our blog or on Facebook.

Ends Wednesday, October 31, 2018
Pumpkin Carving Contest

Submit a photo of your carved pumpkin masterpiece, and you could take home up to $50 in comic book back issues. Submit a photo by Midnight, October 31! Details on our blog or on Facebook.

Kids Trade-in Candy for Comics
Thursday, November 1, 2018

Let's make a trade

Kids 13 and under can trade in their Halloween candy for COMIC! For every bowl filled with candy, kids can select 1 free comic (select comics and while supplies last). It is that simple! This offer runs November 1-10 or while supplies last.

Starting November 4, our food drive for Sacramento Food Bank & Family Services begins! Learn more about it on Facebook.

COMING SOON

11/2018 - October 's Featured Artist: C hris Cinder

11/8 - Graphic Novel Discussion - Monstress

11/9 - Happy Paint Evening at Empire's

11/19 - Free Movie Night at Empires - Highlander

VIEW ALL OUR UPCOMING EVENTS

Have you seen our weekly comics show? Watch it here.

Stand-up Comedy, Free Halloween Comics, and Sale

2018-10-21T16:32:00.003-07:00

UPDATE 10/24/2018 - Comedy night has been cancelled. Also, due to the holidays, Stand Up Comedy Night will return in 2019.

###

Dress up to power up this Saturday's sale. Details below. Plus, there are plenty of laughs in store for you on Friday. Enjoy some of Sacramento's upcoming stand-up comedy talent. More details below.

Friday, October 26 - 8:00 PM

*Cancelled* STAND-UP

COMEDY NIGHT --

Rated M

Bring a grown-up friend and get your laughs on. Free Admission. Tipping the funny people is highly recommended. :) Click image to view the Facebook calendar event.

Saturday, October 27

Horror Sale

and Free ComicFest

Halloween Books

This Saturday, everything horror-related is 10% off -- scary books and scary toys.
BUT if you come in dressed up, you'll get 15% off your purchase.
BUT BUT if you dress up AND you bring your Rolly Tote and Merpug Pin, then you'll get 25% off purchase.

ComicFest Halloween Books: Get your free FCBD Halloween books. Take 1 copy of every book you want, while supplies last.

Contests: Be sure to also check out our pumpkin carving contest and our costume contest. You could win free comics.

Thank You!

Thank you for joining us to support literacy in the region. Together we have made a difference. And now, pat yourself on the back, pick up your favorite comic, and enjoy a good read! See you soon.

COMING SOON
11/01 - Featured artist: Chris Cinder
11/08 - Discuss “Monstress”
11/09 - Get your paint on!
11/16 - Movie night with Highlander
11/20 - Playtime at Sactown Union Brewery

VIEW ALL OUR UPCOMING EVENTS

Have you seen our weekly comics show? Watch it here.