Comic-Con 2026 Weekend Museum Fun Guide
Grab your spandex and slip on your cape as Comic-Con International swings back into action July 22 to 26. Get ready for the ultimate fun weekend in San Diego from the downtown convention to amazing exhibitions at your favorite museums.
Whether you’re waiting for your next Hall H panel or looking to escape the crowds, San Diego’s museums offer unique opportunities to experience the creativity, science, history, and storytelling that make Comic-Con one of the world’s most celebrated cultural events.
Your Comic-Con Headquarters: The Comic-Con Museum in Balboa Park
Start your Comic-Con weekend where the celebration never ends—at the Comic-Con Museum, where fandom lives year-round through immersive exhibits, pop culture icons, and creative showcases for every kind of fan.
🎩 Doctor Who: Worlds of Wonder – Where Science Meets Fiction
Now Open
Step into the TARDIS for a hands-on journey through time, space, and science! This world-exclusive exhibit features all 17 iconic Doctor costumes together for the first time, plus original props, costumes, and interactive displays that explore how science and imagination collide in the Whoniverse.
📚 Growing Up Luann: 40 Years of Comics by Greg Evans
Now Open
From local beginnings in San Marcos to national syndication, Luann has captured hearts for four decades. This exhibit showcases original artwork, unpublished sketches, and personal commentary from cartoonist Greg Evans himself.
🦸🏼 Cover Story: Six Decades of Comic-Con
Now Open
Over the past six decades, Comic-Con has produced special souvenir books for each year’s event. See a who’s who of comi art featured on the covers from Jack Kirby to Frank Miller, Alex Ross and more! More here.
💫 Special Comic-Con Weekend Bonus: “Cover Story: Six Decades of Comic-Con”– Wednesday, July 22
Go behind the scenes of Comic-Con history during this special panel at the Comic-Con Museum in Balboa Park on Wednesday, July 22, at 10 a.m. Former Comic-Con programming and publications director Gary Sassaman shares the fascinating stories behind the iconic Souvenir Book covers created by legendary comic artists, including never-before-exhibited sketches, pencils, inks, and artwork from 2007–2020. Registration is free through Eventbrite, but space is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis.
🛸 Free with museum admission | RSVP here
📍 Located in Balboa Park
🎟️ Buy tickets now and plan your visit » Let the fandom adventure begin! Plan your visit and pick up your tickets here.
Preview Night & Thursday Highlights
KPBS
Get all the details on Preview Night and Thursday’s can’t-miss panels in this excellent guide by Beth Accomando, Arts & Culture Reporter for KPBS. Drawing on decades of Comic-Con experience, Beth has curated one of the convention’s most comprehensive overviews, highlighting everything from blockbuster attractions to hidden gems celebrating comics, creators, diversity, and fan culture.
Comic-Con officially kicks off with Preview Night on Wednesday, giving attendees their first chance to explore the Exhibit Hall, score exclusive merchandise, and get an early look at exhibits before the convention is in full swing. Then on Thursday, the programming begins in earnest with hundreds of panels covering comics, film, television, gaming, fandom, education, and pop culture.
Among Beth’s featured Thursday recommendations is “Holocaust Stamps: History in Miniature,” presented by Remember Us The Holocaust (RUTH). The panel explores how Holocaust and World War II postage stamps serve as miniature works of art and powerful historical witnesses. Featured speakers include Gary Gilbert (Seinfeld writer and co-creator of The Stamp Thief), Dan Sturman (Academy Award-winning filmmaker and co-creator of The Stamp Thief), and Sandra Scheller, founder of Remember Us The Holocaust. Together they will share the stories behind these remarkable stamps and offer exclusive insights into The Stamp Thief documentary. More here.
Thursday, July 23
12:00–1:00 p.m.
Room 4
It’s a wonderful example of how Comic-Con continues to celebrate storytelling in all its forms—from superheroes and science fiction to history, remembrance, and the enduring power of art.
Feel the Force: 10th Annual Lightsaber World Championship
Balboa Park
The Force returns to Balboa Park as the Underground Lightsaber Fighters (ULF) present the 10th Annual Lightsaber World Championship on Saturday, July 25, beginning at sundown at the Balboa Park Fountain, adjacent to the San Diego Natural History Museum.
This free, family-friendly Comic-Con tradition features spectacular choreographed lightsaber duels, incredible Star Wars cosplay, and an unforgettable battle between the light and dark sides of the Force. Whether you’re a lifelong Star Wars fan or simply looking for a fun way to spend a Comic-Con evening, come cheer on the competitors and experience one of San Diego’s most unique fan events. May the Force be with you… always!
🌐 More info here.
Fun Fridays in the Balboa Park
Balboa Park
Friday nights come alive this summer in Balboa Park! It’s the perfect spot for date nights, family fun, art exhibitions, big-screen movies, live music, and fabulous foods. Check out our museum guide here for great ideas and details.
You can now enjoy late-night access to the San Diego Museum of Art, the San Diego Natural History Museum, the Mingei International Museum and more on Friday nights. See our picks including Panama 66, ARTIFACT at Mingei, Japanese Friendship Garden, Fleet Science Center, and the The Prado Restaurant.
Art From the Holocaust: Rare Graphic Propaganda and the Power of Image
Comic-Con 2025 Exclusive Panel – Thursday, July 24 at 1 PM | Room 4
Presented by RUTH: Remember Us, The Holocaust, this powerful session offers a rare look at propaganda art from the Holocaust era—visual media designed to manipulate, dehumanize, and control. Through the lens of chilling graphic materials collected by Norbert Podlesny, the Art from the Holocaust panel explores how art can become a weapon of hate and a tool of psychological warfare.
Curated and moderated by Sandy Scheller, daughter of local Holocaust survivor Ruth Sax z’’l and author of Try to Remember; Never Forget, this panel is a must-attend for those seeking to understand the dark intersections of history, design, and ideology. A poignant and timely reminder of why memory and truth matter more than ever.
Included with Comic-Con Badge | Arrive Early – Seating is Limited
USS Midway Museum
San Diego Bay Front
The USS Midway Museum, once the largest ship in the world and now a naval museum here in San Diego, is also an iconic movie location. Step aboard this real-life aircraft carrier and walk the same decks where movie legends—and real heroes—once stood.
From dinosaurs and superheroes to fighter pilots and giant robots, San Diego has played a starring role in Hollywood. The region has appeared in The Lost World: Jurassic Park (1997), Transformers (2007), Thor (2011), Green Lantern (2011), Top Gun (1986), Top Gun: Maverick (2022), Bring It On (2000), The Scorpion King (2002), and the recently filmed One Battle After Another, along with television favorites including Veronica Mars, Simon & Simon, and The X-Files.
Don’t miss your chance to climb aboard the USS Midway, featured in Iron Man (2008) and Top Gun, and explore a real-life backdrop of blockbuster history.
Don’t miss your chance to climb onboard the USS Midway which has been seen in many movies including Iron Man (2008). The Museum is open seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. with last admission at 4 p.m. Tickets and more here.
Set Sail into Cinema and History at the Maritime Museum of San Diego
⚓ All Aboard the HMS Surprise
Step onto the HMS Surprise, the iconic tall ship featured in Master and Commander: The Far Side of the World. This full-size replica of an 18th-century Royal Navy frigate is permanently docked at the Maritime Museum of San Diego and ready to transport you straight into the Age of Sail. Whether you’re a Russell Crowe fan or just love classic adventure cinema, this is a must-see stop during your Comic-Con weekend. The Maritime Museum has announced that the vessel will permanently close to visitors on August 1, 2027
🌊 Arriving Early? Dive into Summertime Sailor Days
If you’re getting into town ahead of the Comic-Con rush, don’t miss the return of Summertime Sailor Days, happening every Tuesday and Wednesday from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m., through September 2. Included with general admission, this interactive program invites families and maritime fans aboard the legendary Star of India—the world’s oldest active sailing ship.
🚢 What to Expect
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Furl sails, haul lines, and try your hand at knot-tying
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Make your own rope like a traditional sailor
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Join a family scavenger hunt to win a prize from the ship’s treasure chest
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Explore the Museum’s full fleet of historic vessels and engaging exhibitions
🚤 Want to Hit the Bay?
Narrated 45-minute Historic Bay Tours aboard the 1914 Pilot boat are available daily on a first-come, first-served basis—just $10 with general admission.
📍 Conveniently located on the Embarcadero, within walking distance of most downtown San Diego hotels and just minutes from the San Diego Convention Center
🎟️ Plan your visit at sdmaritime.org »
Where Science Meets Sci-Fi: Fleet Science Center Joins the Comic-Con Action
Fresh from a major transformation, the newly reimagined Fleet Science Center is one of the top destinations for Comic-Con fans looking to explore the real science behind their favorite stories. During Comic-Con 2026, the Fleet once again hosts a lineup of special events celebrating the intersection of science, pop culture, comics, and creativity.
Comic-Con Highlights
9th Annual Afrofuturism Lounge
Thursday, July 23 | 7:00–10:30 p.m.
Celebrate Black creativity, comics, storytelling, and innovation at this popular Comic-Con event. The evening features the “Take the Helm” panel with the creators of DEFIANT: The Story of Robert Smalls, followed by a special signing with the artists and writers. More here.
Science of Pop Culture
Throughout Comic-Con, Fleet scientists join Cosplay for Science to explore the real-world science behind fan-favorite franchises including Star Wars and other iconic films and television series. These engaging discussions reveal how today’s science is inspiring tomorrow’s fiction.
Explore the Reimagined Fleet
The Fleet’s newly renovated galleries feature expanded interactive exhibits designed for curious minds of all ages. Whether you’re experimenting with hands-on science, exploring immersive displays, or taking a break from the convention crowds, the Fleet offers one of Balboa Park’s most engaging experiences.
See The Odyssey on San Diego’s Biggest IMAX Screen
Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey is now playing in the Eugene Heikoff and Marilyn Jacobs Heikoff Giant Dome Theater, where the Fleet’s spectacular 76-foot wraparound IMAX® screen delivers one of the world’s most immersive movie experiences. Opening weekend sold out quickly, but additional screenings continue through August 2, making Comic-Con the perfect time to experience one of the year’s biggest films in an unforgettable setting.
Comic-Con Tip: The Fleet is just a short walk from the Comic-Con Museum in Balboa Park, making it easy to combine science, pop culture, and cinematic adventure into one unforgettable day.
📍 Fleet Science Center, Balboa Park
🔗 Plan your visit » Whether you’re into warp drives, wearable tech, or wild theories from the Foundation universe, the Fleet is your launchpad for Comic-Con weekend discovery.
Looking for something to do in San Diego this Friday night?
Every Friday during the summer, The Nat stays open until 11 p.m., giving you the chance to explore the museum after hours with a fun, relaxed vibe. Wander through fascinating exhibitions, enjoy stunning views from the rooftop deck, and grab bites and drinks while taking in one of Balboa Park’s best evening experiences at Nat at Night at the San Diego Natural History Museum.
🍹 Sip a signature cocktail from one of the museum’s bars.
🌮 Enjoy artisan tacos and specialty coffee from The Craft Taco.
🍺 Head to the rooftop for beer, wine, non-alcoholic beverages, and food from Wolf in the Woods.
🎨 On select Fridays, enjoy Sketchparty, trivia nights, live rooftop DJs, and other special activities.
Even better? Admission is half-price after 5 p.m., and parking is free after 6 p.m. Purchase tickets online in advance or at the door. Museum members and Explorer Pass holders receive free general admission. Discover more here.
Whether you’re winding down after Comic-Con or simply looking for a memorable Friday night in Balboa Park, Nat at Night is the perfect way to experience one of San Diego’s favorite museums after dark.
Holy Sharks, Batman!
Birch Aquarium at Scripps
Birch Aquarium at Scripps
La Jolla
Forget battling King Shark—this summer, meet the real stars of the ocean at Birch Aquarium!
Now through August 2, Shark Summer celebrates the incredible role sharks play in keeping our oceans healthy, with special activities, hands-on experiences, and fascinating research highlighting why these misunderstood predators deserve our protection.
While you’re there, don’t miss Imagine Wild, the aquarium’s newest immersive exhibition. Journey to a California mountainside to discover the remarkable story of the endangered Mountain Yellow-legged Frog and the conservation efforts helping bring this unique species back from the brink.
Then dive into the all-new spectacular Adam R. Scripps Living Seas Gallery, where you’ll travel through the vibrant ecosystems of the Pacific Ocean—from the cool waters of the Pacific Northwest and Coastal California to the colorful tropical reefs teeming with marine life.
Whether you’re a superhero fan, a shark enthusiast, or just looking for an unforgettable San Diego adventure during Comic-Con week, Birch Aquarium is making waves all summer long!
California Surf Museum
Surfing Fun in Oceanside
The 1960s saw the popularity of surfing explode with hits by the Beach Boys, surf movies and the first appearance of Marvel’s Silver Surfer in the 1966 Fantastic Four #48.
Whether you’re a lifelong surfer, a beach lover, or simply fascinated by California’s coastal culture, the California Surf Museum offers an unforgettable journey through the history of surfing. From beautifully restored vintage surfboards to legendary stories and iconic photographs, the museum traces how wave riding evolved from an ancient Hawaiian tradition into a global phenomenon.
Don’t miss the museum’s newest exhibition, How the Royals of Hawaiʻi Introduced the Sport of Kings. This fascinating exhibit tells the remarkable story of a Hawaiian princess, three princes, Duke Kahanamoku, and the grandson of a royal minister who introduced surfing to California, England, Australia, and beyond.
Featuring meticulously crafted replicas of the original surfboards ridden by these pioneering ambassadors, the exhibition brings to life a pivotal chapter in surfing history. Visitors will discover how, beginning in the late 1800s, Hawaiian royalty helped transform an ancient cultural tradition into the worldwide sport that would eventually become an Olympic event.
It’s a story of adventure, cultural exchange, and the people who shared the joy of riding waves with the world.
Hang ten and experience where surfing history comes alive!
Arts District Liberty Station
Textiles, Toys & Naval History—A Creative Double Feature
If you love designing costumes, don’t miss Visions Museum of Textile Art, home to three stunning new exhibits this summer. One highlight features hand-painted, translucent fabrics by a local artist that blend tradition and innovation. By displaying historic textiles alongside tools, dyes, and materials, the exhibit traces the evolution of global textile traditions into contemporary expression—perfect inspiration for cosplayers and costume designers alike.
Nearby, GI Joe fans and history buffs alike will want to explore the Nautical History Gallery and Museum, where a large collection of 12-inch GI Joe figures is used to portray the history of the U.S. Navy—from the Revolutionary War through World War II. It’s a nostalgic and educational experience that merges pop culture with military heritage in a uniquely hands-on way.
Fun Tip: After your visit, enjoy art-inspired shopping at local galleries and studios throughout the district, then refuel with global flavors and great local bites inside Liberty Public Market—one of San Diego’s favorite food halls.
Plan your visit at: artsdistrictlibertystation.com
“Jack will speak to you now!”
San Diego History Center, Balboa Park
Long before digital ordering and mobile apps, customers pulled up to Jack in the Box drive-thrus and placed their orders through this iconic talking clown head. From the late 1950s through the 1970s, it became the unmistakable voice of one of San Diego’s most successful homegrown brands.
Jack in the Box opened its first restaurant on El Cajon Boulevard in 1951, and the cheerful clown quickly became the company’s signature mascot. Although the character was retired in 1980 as the brand evolved, generations of San Diegans still remember hearing the clown greet them at the drive-thru.
Now this nostalgic piece of local history is featured in America at 250: San Diego 1776–2026, a new exhibition at the San Diego History Center in Balboa Park. Through 100 fascinating objects from museum collections and private lenders, the exhibition tells the story of the people, places, innovations, and everyday moments that have shaped San Diego over the past 250 years.
Do you remember ordering from a Jack in the Box drive-thru when the clown talked back? Learn more here.
Most Haunted House in America
Whaley House Museum, Old Town San Diego
Ghostbusters should put on their ecto goggles, grab their proton packs and ghost traps and head straight to the Whaley House Museum in Old Town. Worldwide known as the Most Haunted House in America, it is recognized for its historical significance in Old Town San Diego. Be part of the historic legacy, mystery and legends of the Whaley Family, and hear of their myths and misconceptions. Approximately 30-minute guided tour through the historic Whaley House and the surrounding grounds. Regale in the tales of the spirits from the past and perhaps even experience the paranormal.
The home has a “mysterious and chilling past,” from a series of tragic events that took place on its grounds to the town gallows that once stood in its backyard, where criminals including the infamous thief James “Yankee Jim” Robinson were hung. Visitors claim to hear or see spirits on tours of the home, and it’s been featured on all manner of “ghost hunter” shows, including appearances on the SYFY and Discovery channel. Find tickets and more here.
The Legend of the Proctor Valley Monster
Bonita Museum and Cultural Center
Long before cryptids became pop culture icons, South Bay had one of its own. The legend of the Proctor Valley Monster has fascinated locals for generations. Stories dating back to the 1960s tell of cattle mysteriously disappearing from nearby ranches, only to be discovered miles away under unexplained circumstances. Others speak of strange sightings, eerie noises, and even an enormous footprint reportedly discovered in the valley and preserved by a local museum.
Whether fact, folklore, or somewhere in between, the Proctor Valley Monster remains one of San Diego County’s most enduring mysteries—and a fun detour for Comic-Con fans who appreciate legendary creatures and local lore.
What’s New at the Bonita Museum
While you’re there, don’t miss the museum’s dramatic new exterior transformation. South Bay artist Michael Leaf has wrapped the building in a vibrant work of public art, creating a striking new landmark that reflects the museum’s vision of becoming a cultural destination for the region. Visitors can also explore three new outdoor sculptures by Leaf, now permanently installed on the museum grounds.
Inside, experience Strength in Service: Women of the Armed Forces, a powerful new exhibition commemorating the 250th anniversary of the United States through the voices and experiences of women who have served in the military. Curated by Heather Gallana, a U.S. Marine Corps veteran, the exhibition combines personal stories, historical artifacts, and inspiring artistic tributes that honor generations of service.
Exhibition Dates: July 15 – August 29, 2026
Curator: Heather Gallana, USMC Veteran
Comic-Con Tip: If you’re exploring San Diego’s hidden gems beyond downtown, the Bonita Museum offers a unique blend of local legends, public art, and powerful history just a short drive from the Convention Center.
Nickelodeon Takes Over The New Children’s Museum During Comic-Con! 💚
If you’re looking for one of Comic-Con’s most family-friendly experiences, head to Museum Park across from The New Children’s Museum, where Nickelodeon is bringing its Fun Flows Here activation to downtown San Diego. Learn more here.
Fans of all ages can enjoy a free, larger-than-life celebration featuring PAW Patrol, SpongeBob SquarePants, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Avatar: The Last Airbender, and more. Expect live entertainment, music, DJ sets, games, character drawing demonstrations, raffles, giveaways, hands-on activities, bubbles, slime-making, photo opportunities, and—of course—Nickelodeon’s famous green slime!
Special Events
🟢 Thursday, July 23 (4–7 p.m.) – Exclusive members preview.
🎬 Friday, July 24 – Free screenings of The SpongeBob Movie: Search for SquarePants in Museum Park, plus continued Nickelodeon activities.
🎉 Saturday, July 25 (11 a.m.–5 p.m.) – Free public Fun Flows Here activation.
🎉 Sunday, July 26 (11 a.m.–4 p.m.) – One final day to experience the fun.
The activation takes place outdoors in Museum Park, directly across from The New Children’s Museum at 200 W. Island Avenue. Admission to the Nickelodeon activation is free, and guests are welcome to stop by throughout the day.
Please note: The New Children’s Museum itself will be closed July 21–26 while Museum Park hosts this special Comic-Con experience.
Whether you’re a lifelong SpongeBob fan, an aspiring ninja turtle, or just looking for a fun family stop during Comic-Con, this is one downtown activation you won’t want to miss!
Strange & Supernatural Soiree at the Gaslamp Museum
Gaslamp District
Just steps away from the convention center is downtown’s oldest standing structure known as the Gaslamp Museum! The home has housed many fascinating people, including pre-civil war soldiers, a a WWI German spy in hiding who was later captured and even Alonzo Horton, founder of San Diego. It was even a hospital for around 10 years where many sick and wounded patients died. Today, each room represents a historic period of the home and is filled with fascinating and amusing stories about the former inhabitants.
Step into San Diego’s oldest surviving structure for an evening of mystery, ghosts, and the supernatural at the Gaslamp Museum’s Strange & Supernatural Soiree!
On Friday, July 24, from 6–9 p.m., the historic Davis-Horton House transforms into an after-hours experience featuring chilling tales of local hauntings, tarot card readings, ghost hunting, spooky courtyard movies, themed cocktails, photo opportunities, crafts, and more. Whether you’re a paranormal enthusiast or just looking for a unique Comic-Con night out, this event promises an unforgettable evening in one of San Diego’s most famously haunted buildings.
🎟️ A limited number of tickets will be available at the door for those who missed the online presale. Don’t wait too long—they’re expected to go quickly!
📍 Gaslamp Museum at the Davis-Horton House
📅 Friday, July 24
🕕 6:00–9:00 p.m.
Who knows…you might leave with more than just great memories. 👻
Navy SEAL Museum San Diego
Where: 1001 Kettner Boulevard, San Diego, CA 92101
Step into history at the Navy SEAL Museum San Diego, where authentic artifacts, immersive exhibits, and interactive technology bring the legacy of Naval Special Warfare to life. Located in a city foundational to the SEAL Teams, the museum offers a rare behind-the-scenes look at one of the world’s most elite military forces and the values that define them: discipline, teamwork, resilience, and service.
Visitors can explore the evolution of Naval Special Warfare from the early Underwater Demolition Teams to modern-day SEAL operations through multimedia galleries, virtual reality experiences, authentic equipment displays, BUD/S training exhibits, memorial spaces, and firsthand accounts from veterans. More than a museum, it is a powerful tribute to courage, sacrifice, and leadership.
Find tickets and details here. Active and Reserve U.S. Military may order up to two free tickets per order, and must show a valid Military ID at the door. Military Friends & Family must show a valid Military ID at the door.
Fun Tip: Visitors to the Navy SEAL Museum San Diego, the Maritime Museum of San Diego, and the USS Midway Museum can receive discounted admission at the other participating museums by presenting proof of ticket purchase. Learn more here.
San Diego Public Library: Comic-Con for Everyone
No Comic-Con badge? No problem. The San Diego Public Library is once again making Comic-Con accessible to everyone with free programs, exclusive collectibles, and helpful services throughout convention week.
Get Your Hands on the 2026 Comic-Con Library Card!
Beginning Thursday, July 23, visitors can pick up the 2026 Comic-Con Commemorative Library Card at any of the library’s 37 locations. Officially licensed by Comic-Con International and illustrated by Keithan Jones, founder of KID Comics, this year’s collectible card celebrates the iconic San Diego Central Library and the welcoming spirit of the library. Better yet, replacement fees are waived throughout July, and library cards are always free for California residents.
Cosplay Repair Station
Need a last-minute costume fix? Head to the IDEA Lab on the fourth floor of the Central Library, where the popular Cosplay Repair Station returns during Comic-Con.
Using sewing machines, 3D printers, laser cutters, hot glue guns, wig supplies, and other maker tools, library staff will help repair everything from broken armor and missing buttons to damaged props and costume accessories.
Hours:
Thursday & Friday: 11:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m.
Saturday: 1:00–5:00 p.m.
Comic-Con Conference for Educators & Librarians
In partnership with Comic-Con International, the Central Library also hosts the Comic-Con Conference for Educators and Librarians (CCEL). This annual gathering explores how comics, graphic novels, and pop culture inspire literacy, creativity, and learning for readers of all ages through a series of expert-led panels and discussions.
Visit the Library at Comic-Con
The San Diego Public Library will also be exhibiting at Comic-Con Booth #5523, where attendees can pick up the exclusive commemorative library card, meet this year’s artist Keithan Jones, learn about library resources, and receive free giveaways while supplies last.
Comic-Con Tip: Whether you’re looking for an exclusive collectible, a quick cosplay repair, or a quiet place to recharge between events, the San Diego Public Library is one of Comic-Con’s best free destinations—and everyone is welcome.
Toucan, The Official Comic-Con Blog
San Diego
Make your trip to San Diego’s Comic-Con 2026 the BEST it can be! The Toucan has tips on everything related to Comic-Con from bringing the kids, programming schedules, and the Comic-Con App. Get the latest here.
Even if you don’t have a badge, there are plenty of offsites to experience with no badge required. Check out the list below for some of this year’s San Diego Comic-Con Offsites Calendar.
The Biggest Panels at San Diego Comic-Con 2026
San Diego Comic-Con 2026 once again brings together Hollywood’s biggest studios, legendary creators, and world-class cultural institutions for four days of exclusive announcements, sneak peeks, and unforgettable experiences. While Hall H remains the epicenter of blockbuster reveals, museums throughout San Diego are also joining the celebration with special exhibitions and programming that extend the Comic-Con experience beyond the Convention Center.
Thursday, July 23
The convention kicks off with an exciting lineup that includes Avatar Aang: The Last Airbender, where fans will get an exclusive preview of the upcoming film and hear directly from the voice cast and creative team. Storytelling takes center stage during Inside the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art, featuring Jim Lee, Seth Green, Matthew Senreich, and museum leaders discussing the future of narrative art and offering a first look at upcoming museum programming. Fans can also enjoy the action-thriller Onslaught panel with exclusive footage, acclaimed filmmaker Brad Bird: My Cinematic Journey, and a special screening of Stan Lee: The Final Chapter.
Friday, July 24
Prime Video headlines the day with exclusive previews of Blade Runner 2099 and The Lord of the Rings: The Rings of Power, while AMC presents The Vampire Lestat. Comedy fans can look forward to Spaceballs: The New One, and animation lovers won’t want to miss King of the Hill. The evening concludes with a special 20th anniversary celebration of Guillermo del Toro’s Pan’s Labyrinth, featuring the legendary filmmaker and members of the original cast.
Saturday, July 25
Saturday features many of Comic-Con’s biggest attractions, including DC’s Batman: Knightfall, exclusive previews from Futurama and The Simpsons, a celebration of Star Trek’s 60th Anniversary, and the always highly anticipated Marvel Studios Hall H Presentation, where fans can expect major announcements from across the Marvel Cinematic Universe.
Sunday, July 26
The convention wraps up with appearances by Heartstopper creator Alice Oseman, a celebration of Star Trek comics, an exploration of the science behind Fallout, the latest news from the world of The Lord of the Rings, and the beloved interactive screening of Buffy the Vampire Slayer: Once More, With Feeling, one of Comic-Con’s most popular closing traditions.
