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Marvel celebrates the original Marvel U today, on 616 Day

Yet another media holiday is popping off today, as Marvel Comics celebrates the 616 on June 16th, complete with some unique merch.

616 on 6/16

Ah yes, it’s time once again for Earth’s Mightiest Day! What’s that, you ask? Well, it’s Marvel Comics’ celebration of the original Marvel universe, otherwise known as Earth 616 in the publisher’s multiverse of timelines and alternate histories. It’s also worth noting that this apparently isn’t the first “616 Day“, though we’ve apparently been out of the loop on previous instances.

In any event, the happening is more than just an online notation, as Marvel Comics has shipped some goodies to retailers as well. Those include some special 616 Day variant covers and a pair of pin sets, one featuring Spider-Man and one with Marvel’s first family, the FF.

There’s also a very interesting little teaser, hinting at a big return that’ll be revealed at… 6:16pm eastern time tonight. From the lettering, we’re going to guess it’s Eddie Brock’s return as Venom, but that’s just us throwing darts.

Today, June 16th, marks 616 Day, a celebratory day inspired by Marvel’s main 616 universe. Over the years, a growing number of fans have embraced 616 Day to appreciate and share their favorite parts of the Marvel Universe, and this year, retailers have a chance to participate! Select retailers received a surprise 616 Day package this week containing exclusive items including 616 Day Variant Covers by superstar Marvel creators Marco Checchetto, Greg Land, Sara Pichelli, and Leinil Francis Yu and a 616 Day and Fantastic Four 616 Day Pin Set. The package was accompanied by a letter from Marvel Comics President Dan Buckley, who expressed his enthusiasm in building up 616 Day as an exciting yearly opportunity for comic shops to rally fans, encourage interest in comics, and drive foot traffic in a way that feels special. 

“Every year, we look for new ways to celebrate the incredible comics that make up the heart and soul of our industry. Our job is to tell stories that keep readers on the edge of their seats, introducing them to characters that feel real and relatable, and building a passionate community that embraces the fun and joy of being a comic book fan. None of that happens without you and your stores, so we want to take a moment to say thank you,” Buckley told retailers.

Check out the covers, the pin set, and a teaser for an exciting Marvel Comics announcement coming later today at 6:16 PM ET. Happy 616 Day!

Marvel Comics press release

About Jason Micciche

Jason's been knee deep in videogames since he was but a lad. Cutting his teeth on the pixely glory that was the Atari 2600, he's been hack'n'slashing and shoot'em'uping ever since. Mainly an FPS and action guy, Jason enjoys the occasional well crafted title from every genre.

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