Overview of Comic-Con International 2025
Comic-Con International is back this week, drawing thousands of pop culture enthusiasts to San Diego. These fans, dressed in a variety of costumes, will be roaming the city for a four-day celebration of comic books, graphic novels, animation, horror, publishing, science fiction, writing, and video games. Attendees can also explore original art, exclusive merchandise, gaming competitions, and meet their favorite characters from the comic book world.
While many visitors are there for the main events at the San Diego Convention Center, there are plenty of activities available for locals and visitors who didn’t secure a badge. From panels and exhibitions to themed food and drink specials, there’s something for everyone.
Wednesday Schedule Highlights
The Wednesday schedule at Comic-Con is usually lighter, with fewer events. However, it serves as an opportunity for attendees to pick up badges without facing long lines. It's also a chance to see the convention floor early. In recent years, the event has become just as busy as other days, making it a popular choice for those looking to avoid the crowds.
Thursday Events
Thursday marks the official start of the convention. The day kicks off with the cast of “Percy Jackson and the Olympians” and a preview of Blumhouse’s new horror film, “Five Nights at Freddy’s 2.” Disney+’s “Percy Jackson” series is set to return for its second season, with most of the cast expected to attend Hall H. Blumhouse will also have a panel featuring the latest horror release.
Friday Activities
Friday is one of the biggest days of the convention, featuring the casts of the latest “Predator” and “Tron” movies. Disney-owned properties will dominate Hall H with two of their most anticipated upcoming films. Stars like Jared Leto, Elle Fanning, Jeff Bridges, and Evan Peters are expected to appear for “Predator: Badlands” and “Tron: Ares.” Major TV shows will also be represented, with cast members such as Norman Reedus, Sydney Chandler, and Timothy Olyphant attending panels for “The Walking Dead: Daryl Dixon” and “Alien: Earth.”
Saturday Highlights
Saturday is typically the busiest day of the convention, though it may be slightly subdued this year. Ryan Gosling and John Cena are among the notable guests. The film adaptation of “Project Hail Mary,” based on a hit sci-fi novel, will take over Hall H, featuring Gosling, author Andy Weir, and directors Phil Lord and Christopher Miller. Another major panel will focus on the DC show “Peacemaker,” with John Cena and James Gunn expected to attend.
Sunday Closing Day
The final day of the convention on Sunday will feature the first-ever appearance by George Lucas at Comic-Con. He will discuss his new museum in Los Angeles, the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art, alongside director Guillermo del Toro and singer Queen Latifah. While fans would love to hear Lucas talk about Star Wars for hours, the panel is focused primarily on the museum and will last only one hour.
Celebrity Appearances
This year, George Lucas’s appearance is generating significant excitement among fans. Other returning stars include Quinta Brunson and Patton Oswalt. Locals may spot these celebrities walking around the city during the event.
Activities Outside the Convention Center
For those without a badge, there are still numerous ways to participate in the festivities. Free and paid events, including exhibits, concerts, parties, cosplay meet-ups, panels, viewings, podcasts, and comedy shows, are available throughout the week. This guide offers a comprehensive list of events that the public can join without needing a badge.
Tips and Advice for Attendees
Comic-Con has evolved significantly since its early days in the 1970s, when it was a small gathering of comic book fans. Today, it has grown into a five-day event featuring panels, speakers, exclusive merchandise, photo opportunities, happy hours, after-parties, and more. Longtime attendees offer valuable tips and tricks to help newcomers navigate the event.
Essential Information for Visitors
The exhibit hall is the main area of the convention, open from 6 to 9 p.m. on Wednesday, 9:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday, and 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday. Attendees can sign up for the scheduling portal to create a personalized itinerary. Free Wi-Fi is available through Cox Communications, with hotspots in downtown San Diego, including Little Italy, from July 23 to July 27.
Food and Drink Specials
Themed doughnuts and “The Big Lebowski” cocktails are among the unique food and drink options available during Comic-Con. The Gaslamp Quarter is also getting into the spirit with special activities, decorations, and dining plans. Notable spots include the Pac-Man Cafe, which is celebrating its 45th anniversary with a pop-up location, and City Tacos, hosting a Comic-Con trivia night. The Margaritaville Hotel San Diego is offering Comic-Con-inspired cocktails and cosplay events.
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