Illuminate the bat signal, don your capes, and replace your Barbenheimer cosplay—Comic-Con is almost here. Following last year’s subdued version of Comic-Con due to Hollywood strikes, the convention is poised to return in full force featuring the hottest upcoming films, comics, and artists from all over the multiverse.
Each year, Comic-Con puts the international spotlight on San Diego, drawing more than 150,000 visitors to our city. This year, Marvel is back with a panel, Game of Thrones returns, and Beetlejuice is all the rage again. It feels like I traveled back in time in the TARDIS.
Other notable headliners include classic comic writer Mark Evanier, known for his work with comic-book legend Jack Kirby; Jim Lee, chief creative officer of DC Comics; graphic novelist Meggie Ramm, known for Batcat; and comic- and film-writer, J. Michael Straczynski.
Whether you plan to camp out for the hottest panels at Hall H, craft an all-new cosplay costume, or simply enjoy the people-watching downtown, this guide will ensure you have a super time at Comic-Con 2024.
San Diego Comic-Con 2024 Details
When is San Diego Comic-Con 2024?
Comic-Con 2024 takes place from July 25 to July 28 at the San Diego Convention Center.
Where do I pick up my Comic-Con 2024 badge?
If you registered for Comic-Con badges in advance, they are shipped 3-4 weeks prior to the event. If you haven’t received your badges in the mail, you can pick them up at the Sails Pavilion within the convention center. You’ll need a valid photo ID and proof of your badge confirmation.
Can I still get tickets to San Diego Comic-Con 2024?
Unfortunately, badges for Comic-Con 2024 are sold out, but you can get a head-start on securing your 2025 Comic-Con badges by registering on the Comic-Con website. Open registration for Comic-Con 2025 begins in November. Mark your calendars now and make sure to mash your refresh button like the Flash.
How to get to San Diego Comic-Con?
If you’re able to soar through the sky like Superman, transportation during Comic-Con is a breeze. If you’re a mere mortal like the rest of us, transportation is your kryptonite.
While limited parking is available downtown, ridesharing is highly recommended. A complimentary Comic-Con shuttle will stop throughout Mission Valley, downtown, and various hotels near Shelter and Harbor Island all weekend, arriving every 15 to 30 minutes depending on the time of day. Check the full schedule and map for the 2024 Comic-Con shuttle here.
Will there be road closures during Comic-Con 2024?
To accommodate the increase in pedestrian traffic during Comic-Con weekend, Harbor Drive will be closed from Wednesday July 24 to Sunday July 28.
Harbor Drive Comic-Con Closure Times
- Wednesday – 2:00-10:00 p.m.
- Thursday – 7:00 a.m.-10:00 p.m.
- Friday – 7:00 a.m.-10:00 p.m.
- Saturday – 7:00 a.m.-10:00 p.m
- Sunday – 7:00 a.m.-8:00 p.m.
Where to eat at San Diego Comic-Con?
Yes! There are plenty of food and drink vendors within the convention center. The Comic-Con Hospitality Suite at the Marriott Marquis, exclusively for Comic-Con badgeholders, offers snacks, beverages, and an air-conditioned place to relax between panels and treks throughout the exhibition hall. The suite is open from 2 p.m. to 12 a.m. Thursday through Saturday. For more food recommendations, check out our 2024 Best Restaurants List.
What are the most anticipated panels and exhibits at Comic-Con 2024?
Marvel Studios returns this year with a Hall H panel, likely promoting their upcoming film Deadpool & Wolverine, set to hit theaters July 26. Fingers-crossed that we see a special appearance by Ryan Reynolds and Hugh Jackman.
Comic-Con visitors clamor to collect each year’s exclusive Funko Pops. This year the San Diego–based toy brand is set to return with an all new “Funko International Airport” booth experience. Additionally, Funko will host “Freddy’s Funtastic Voyage,” this year’s pirate-themed Funko Days, hosted at the Manchester Grand Hyatt Friday and Saturday. Tickets for this experience are free and can be reserved here.
DreamWorks recently announced their 2024 panel promoting the animated show Jurassic World: Chaos Theory, expected to announce a second season. Warner Bros’ much-anticipated Beetlejuice sequel, set to hit theaters September 6, is speculated to have a presence this year.
The official Comic-Con schedule will be published on July 11, so stay tuned for more updates. View the 2024 Exhibitor list here.
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San Diego Comic-Con Tips & Tricks
Stay in the Loop
The Comic-Con app is a valuable resource for viewing schedules, maps, and event alerts throughout the weekend. Follow Comic-Con on social media (@comic_con on Twitter, Instagram, and Facebook) and unofficial experts like @SD_Comic_Con and @cinebeth. The Unofficial Comic-Con Blog also has a podcast, SD Con Cast, discussing news and updates each week leading up to the event.
Devise Your Master Plan
Comic-Con can be overwhelming and can feel like a time warp drive when you’re in the heart of the action. Use the Comic-Con app’s schedule function to create a plan for your weekend. Prioritize must-see exhibits and panels each day, and fill out your days with lower priority attractions as time allows.
Secure Your Loot
Free giveaways and merchandise on the exhibit floor go fast. Stock up on your must-have freebies first. Consider visiting merchandise booths at the end of the day to potentially score deals from vendors looking to deplete their stock with the added bonus of not hauling cumbersome plushies and figurines all day.
Shield Your Soles
Regardless if you’re dressed as Furiosa or Moana, you’re going to want to protect your feet. In the exhibit hall, it’s common to have your toes stepped on over and over. Comfort is key, so wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes for standing and walking all day. Packing a bag with water, snacks, band-aids, an extra charger, and anything else you need to keep you your feet.
Know the Exhibit Hall
The exhibit hall features massive booths from studios, interactive games, and plenty of smaller vendors. Make a list of the booths you most want to visit and map your route based on proximity. Having a shopping list will help you stay focused without getting overwhelmed, or in debt.
Suit Up
Cosplaying is a huge part of Comic-Con. Prepare your costume and test it in sunny weather. San Diego temperatures in late July hover around the low 80s to high 70s which can cause makeup to run and ruin cosplay dreams. Bring safety pins, tape, and extra makeup in case disaster strikes. Consider emergency cosplay repair kits available online. Lastly, join various cosplay meetups during Comic-Con weekend to get your fill of photo opportunities.
No Pass, No Problem
The Gaslamp Quarter transforms into a comic wonderland overnight with exhibits and pop-up events. Outside Comic-Con is a great resource for event updates outside of the exhibit halls including movie screenings, themed food and drink offerings, and pop-up events like last year’s Sonic the Hedgehog cafe or Adult Swim’s Festival on the Green.
Recharge Your Power Levels
Whether it’s the heat, the smells, or the non-stop walking, it’s important to take breaks to avoid burnout. Visit the Marriott’s Hospitality Suite or Seaport Village, just north of the convention center, for bayfront views, restaurants, and a refreshing breeze.
Take the Trolley In
Avoid driving downtown if possible. Most experienced Comic-Con–goers either take the complimentary shuttle or ride the trolley from outside downtown.
The Magic of Comic-Con
Comic-Con’s spontaneity makes it special. Be open to discovering new artists or panels you knew nothing about. It’s great to have a plan, but be flexible and embrace unexpected discoveries.
