Get ready to geek out—San Diego Comic-Con 2025 returns to the San Diego Convention Center from Thursday, July 24, through Sunday, July 27. This massive pop-culture celebration draws fans from around the world for panels, celebrity appearances, exclusive merch, cosplay, and major announcements from the biggest names in comics, TV, movies, anime, and gaming.
Founded in the far-far-away year of 1970 under the moniker San Diego’s Golden State Comic-Con, the convention has exploded in popularity. Highlights over the years include an under-the-radar Star Wars preview in 1976, the event’s relocation to the San Diego Convention Center in 1991, Avengers announcement in 2010, and memorable cameos—like Breaking Bad‘s Bryan Cranston going incognito in a Walter White mask.
Each year, Comic-Con puts the international spotlight on San Diego, drawing more than 135,000 visitors. This year, the fun returns with a full slate of panels, events, and passionate fandoms. While major studios like Marvel, DC, and Legendary won’t be attending, there will still be plenty of big names from across the multiverse making appearances.
Whether you’re camping out for Hall H, debuting a fresh cosplay costume, or just enjoying the people-watching downtown, our Comic-Con 2025 guide will ensure you make it to all your favorite events.
Comic-Con 2025 takes place Thursday, July 24 through Sunday, July 27 at the San Diego Convention Center. Preview Night is Wednesday, July 23 and is only open to 2025 badge holders.
Comic-Con 2025 Hours
Wednesday: 6–9 p.m.
Thursday: 9:30 a.m.–7 p.m.
Friday: 9:30 a.m.–7 p.m.
Saturday: 9:30 a.m.–7 p.m.
Sunday: 9:30 a.m.–5 p.m
Where Do I Pick Up My Comic-Con Badge?
If you registered in advance, Comic-Con badges will be shipped 3–4 weeks before the event. If yours doesn’t arrive, you can pick it up at the Sails Pavilion inside the convention center starting July 22. Bring a valid photo ID and your badge confirmation email.
Can I Still Get Tickets to San Diego Comic-Con 2025?
Badges for Comic-Con 2025 are sold out. To increase your chances next year, register for Comic-Con 2026 on the official website. Open registration begins in November. Mark your calendar and hit that refresh button like you’re the Flash.
How to Get to San Diego Comic-Con?
If you have wings or a cape, getting there is a breeze. If not, transportation might be your kryptonite. Parking downtown is limited, and ride-sharing is strongly recommended. Starting Wednesday, July 23, a complimentary Comic-Con shuttle will run every 15–30 minutes with stops in Mission Valley, downtown, and hotel zones near the airport on Shelter and Harbor Islands.
There are plenty of food and drink vendors inside the convention center. Badge holders can also access the Comic-Con Hospitality Suite at the Marriott Marquis, open 2 p.m.–midnight, Thursday through Saturday. It offers free snacks and an air-conditioned break from the crowds.
What Are the Biggest Events Happening Outside of Comic-Con?
If you missed out on a 2025 badge, there is plenty of fun outside of the convention halls.
This year Paramount+ returns with The Lodge, an immersive activation inviting fans to nerd out with exclusive content in the Gaslamp Quarter. Anime enthusiasts can dive into the Crunchyroll Anime Fan Fest at The Rady Shell, featuring guest panels, limited-edition merch, and interactive installations. Don’t miss the Malibu Barbie Café, transforming Bayside Kitchen & Bar into a sun-soaked, retro-glam pop-up from July 11 through Comic-Con weekend.
The iconic Voodoo Ranger Pirate Ship is also back for its fourth year on San Diego Harbor, serving up tropical drinks, pirate-themed games, and swag. BBC Studios is bringing the Doctor Who Whoniverse to life with an off-site UNIT Black Archive installation at the Harbor Club. Video game nostalgia returns with the PAC-MAN Café, opening July 12 at 323 Seventh Avenue for themed bites and pixel-perfect décor. And for superhero fans, Batman (1989) In Concert hits Gallagher Square on Saturday, July 26.
Want weekly updates leading up to the event? Listen to the SD Con Cast from the Unofficial Comic-Con Blog.
Devise Your Master Plan
The San Diego Convention Center spans 2.6 million square feet. That’s a lot of carpet to cover—especially in chainmail, platform boots, or 10 pounds of prosthetics.
Use the Comic-Con app’s scheduling feature to prioritize your top panels and exhibits. Fill in gaps with backup options and keep a shopping list handy so you don’t accidentally walk out with a $400 statue of Baby Yoda (unless that’s the plan).
Photo Credit: Cole Novak
Secure Your Loot
Freebies and exclusives vanish faster than Thanos snaps. Hit your must-visit booths early, and circle back at day’s end when vendors might slash prices—plus, you won’t have to lug your oversized plushies all day.
Shield Your Soles
Whether you’re Spider-Man or Wonder Woman, the real hero is wearing comfortable, closed-toe shoes. Your feet will thank you after hours of walking, standing, and accidentally getting stomped on in the exhibit hall.
Pack a small bag with water, snacks, Band-Aids, a phone charger, and other supplies you’ll need to replenish yourself throughout the weekend.
Suit Up
Cosplay is half the fun—until San Diego’s July sunshine melts your makeup or your helmet turns into a personal sauna.
Test your costume outdoors before the con. Bring safety pins, duct tape, blotting paper, and extra makeup for repairs on the fly. Bonus tip: check online for cosplay repair stations and meetups to show off your fit and score photos.
Courtesy of Comic-Con
No Pass, No Problem
The Gaslamp Quarter transforms into a comic wonderland overnight with exhibits and pop-up events, immersive experiences, and off-site parties.
Whether it’s the heat, the smells, or the non-stop walking, it’s important to take breaks and stay hydrated to avoid burnout. Swing by the Marriott’s Hospitality Suite (for badge holders only) or Seaport Village, just north of the convention center, for a snack, shade, and a refreshing coastal breeze.
Take the Trolley In
Unless you’re driving a Batmobile with reserved parking, avoid downtown traffic. Ride the trolley or hop on the free Comic-Con shuttle from Mission Valley, the airport hotels, or other locations.
The Magic of Comic-Con
Plans are great. So is throwing them out the window. Some of the best Comic-Con memories come from spontaneous discoveries—a surprise panel, a new favorite artist, or an unforgettable conversation in line.
Cole Novak is an award-winning writer with a passion for highlighting local figures, small businesses, and nonprofits. Born and raised in San Diego, Cole is passionate about photography, surfing, art, the local food scene, and the great outdoors.
