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Last weekend saw downtown come alive, shaking off the last of the winter blues and embracing the potential of springtime fun.

The Kokomo Downtown Farmers Market held its opening day on May 2, inviting residents to stock up on fresh food, snatch up a beautiful bouquet, pick out a handmade gift, enjoy live music, and otherwise revel in the beautiful weather.

The market is held every Saturday through mid-October from 9 a.m. until noon at the corner of Washington and Mulberry streets. The food vendors accept SNAP benefits so that everyone has an opportunity to eat nutritious, locally sourced food. And of course, the market is a prime chance to support local businesses.

Just a few blocks away, collectors and fans lined the sidewalk in front of Comics Cubed, 121 E. Sycamore St., to grab a free comic book (or three) as part of the national Comics Giveaway Day. For more than 30 years, the comic book industry has offered free books on the first Saturday in May.

According to Comics Cubed owner Shawn Hilton, the day represents more than a free comic.

“Comic books are a step toward literacy and the home of some of the greatest art of the past 125 years,” said Hilton. “Comics Cubed is proud to offer comics, not just when the industry is searching for new readers with giveaways, but every week with stories and artwork that can inspire, teach, and entertain.”

Comics Cubed is open every Wednesday through Saturday from noon until 9 p.m. Learn more about the store and its many offerings by following it on Facebook.