America’s largest event for fans of comic books, pop culture, superheroes, and fantasy memorabilia catapulted from an obscure, one-day comic book convention in 1970 to a proverbial monster.
These days, Comic-Con International is a multi-day event filled with numerous activities all over San Diego throughout July, and everyone gets in on the fun. It can evoke joy among lovers of geek chic or skepticism from those who dismiss it as such.
Whatever your reaction, there’s no denying that this annual convention turns downtown San Diego lightning hot for a few days each summer – this year, July 18-21, with preview activities commencing July 17.
So, after you’ve showcased your cosplay, navigated the booths, attended talks, caught screenings, and purchased merch, venture out and explore; Comic-Con badge not required.
Primetime Favorites
Get a sneak peek at what’s to come during the convention at the new Comic-Con Museum in Balboa Park on July 17. Dubbed The Gathering, the event will honor Batman as the inaugural character in the museum’s Hall of Fame. “This is a Hall of Fame for iconic characters from popular culture that are beloved by fans,” said Adam Smith, Executive Director of the Comic-Con Museum.
Following official Comic-Con activities, the Maritime Museum will host its annual Pirate Con on July 20 aboard the Star of India (which is purportedly haunted).
ScareDiego returns with an offsite panel and sneak preview footage starring New Line Cinema and Warner Bros.’s upcoming horror flicks at Horton Grand Theatre. Expect anticipated previews of It: Chapter Two and possibly Doctor Sleep.
Late night host Conan O’Brien also returns to Comic-Con to tape several episodes of his TBS channel show at Spreckels Theatre. In the past, prominent guests have included the cast of Breaking Bad, writer-director M. Night Shyamalan, actress Sarah Paulson, and actor Jason Momoa. For tickets and information check the show’s website.
Arts and Culture
As part of its Bayside Summer Nights Series, the San Diego Symphony will musically transport guests to the ’80s and ’90s with Galaxy Quest and Back to the Future in concert. The experience includes a screening of each film while the symphony plays the score live.
In Barrio Logan, Border X Brewing will host its 5th Annual Chicano Con; a two-day family-oriented event filled with comics and music, dedicated to highlighting the work of Latino artists in the spirit of Comic-Con. For the kids: Superhero piñatas, comic book giveaways, and tacos for all.
Food and Craft Beer
On July 18, Stone Brewing Company hosts its 7th annual Hop-Con, lovingly nicknamed “our annual celebration of nth-degree beer geekery.” Expect tastings, fun and games like a comedians vs. scientists Quiz-o-Tron, and Hop-Con exclusive creations, such as a chocolate orange black IPA collaboration with Criminal Minds actress, Aisha Tyler.
At Petco Park’s Interactive Zone, the Hello Kitty Cafe returns with themed bites and treats, including an exclusive 5-character macaron set featuring Hello Kitty, My Melody, Chococat, and more.
Restaurants embrace the Comic-Con frenzy too, like the modern Mexican eatery Puesto at The Headquarters. They’ll serve an El Héroe taco—lobster, filet mignon, and chipotle “superhero” sauce, a Villain taco of fried calamari and pickled avocado, and a watermelon mezcal “Sidekick” margarita.
This article was originally written by Andrew Bender in July 2017 and updated by Ligaya Malones in July 2019.
