*Warning: When talking about fandoms, it’s almost impossible not to mention spoilers. So, here’s your warning – spoilers likely rest ahead.
San Diego Comic-Con (SDCC) is a four-day event which happens every year and is a refuge for nerds all around the globe. It kicks off on July 19 until July 22. As one of the biggest comic conventions in the world, expect to spend lots of money on con-merch, meet famous people and be one of the first to get the exclusive scoop on happenings in the entertainment industry. We’ve compiled a list to help prepare you for the beautiful chaos that is the con, though we can’t help you with your cosplay.
Going alone is dangerous! Take this (advice)
Like most things in life, there’s always something to do before the fun. SDCC is no different, and before you head out, sword in hand, you’re gonna wanna make sure you’ve been proactive.
Want to nerd out while doing some good? Make an appointment to get your blood drawn while you’re at the con. That’s right, for their 42nd year in a row, the Robert A. Heinlein Blood Drive is hoping to surpass their previous record of 1,855 pints of blood in 4 days this year! Contribute to the cause!
Babysitter bail? Well, that’s okay! Bring the kids! Thanks to KiddieCorp, your kids will be taken care of on-site while you’re free to peruse the merchandise and sit-in at some of the more adult-oriented panels. Sign your kid up now so they’re guaranteed a spot — they fill up fast!
It should be a no-brainer, but make sure that you pay for parking in advance! Nothing’s worse than showing up for a con and having to park miles away because you didn’t reserve a spot. Also, take advantage of the free shuttle that runs 24 hours a day. Who wants exercise?! Yeah, that’s what we thought.
Make sure to sign up for a timeslot to purchase exclusive merch (detailed below). Every year Comic-Con has tons of coveted stuff, but it’s limited. That means if you put your name on the list, you may actually get to go home with that SDCC exclusive, Grillmaster: 76 Pop!
Look into volunteering if you’re interested in a FREE badge for that day. Seriously, you can skip the $200 price tag and attend the full con while getting the opportunity to hang out with famous people. How cool is that?
We hope you’d know this already, but for real, if you don’t already have a badge, stay away from scalpers. SDCC has methods in place to prevent scalpers from selling badges including a unique barcode and RFID technology. Save yourself the embarrassment and just get on next year’s presale!
We’re not worthy
You made it to SDCC, now what? Bask in the glow of your favorite celebs. We’ve got the deets on the hottest guests this year.
For you Whovians out there, you’ll be pleased to know that a vast portion of the cast from Doctor Who’s newest season will be there, including Jodie Whittaker, Tosin Cole and Mandip Gill. Since Jodie is gonna be the first female Time Lord, you don’t wanna miss their panel.
Aquaman, the one cape that no one wants when they go to Six Flags. Well, hopefully, that will change after this year’s Comic-Con, considering the unveiling of DC’s newest movie will take place at SDCC. Maybe Aquaman will finally receive the respect he deserves. DC is also rumored to be showcasing footage from Wonder Woman 1984. All the hype!
For all of you horror junkies out there, Stephen King’s Castle Rock and Mr. Mercedes will have their own panels, with the King himself. Hulu will also be showing the full, first episode of Castle Rock so attendees should prepare themselves. And afterward, head toward the Hard Rock Café for an immersive experience into Castle Rock. Sounds spooky!
The Walking Dead fans are writhing in their seats for news surrounding the possible return of Jon Bernthal. You heard me right, that douchey guy, Shane, from season one and two will be in attendance. Yes, the dude who tried to steal Rick’s family! Fans are already speculating whether he’ll somehow make another appearance on the show since he will be on the media giant’s panel this year.
If you’re a fan of Riverdale, their Q&A panel will be fully-stocked with members of the cast including KJ Apa, Lili Reinhart and Cole Sprouse. They’re even going to be showing exclusive video content. Maybe we’ll figure out if Archie will make bail!
Attention 90’s kids everywhere: we know you’re still licking your wounds after the tragic closure of Toys “R” Us, but we have good news. Invader Zim: Enter the Florpus. The nostalgia train’s pulling in, your favorite creepy show is back with a vengeance. Along with the announcement of Nickelodeon’s revival of Invader Zim, they’ll also be rebooting everyone’s favorite turtles: Rise of the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles. I think it might be time to move back into mom’s basement, I don’t want to grow up!
Honorable Mentions
Netflix will also be showcasing their newly acquired Lucifer, as well as rumors for discussions on Stranger Things and Santa Clarita Diet. Star Wars will also be celebrating their ten-year anniversary for Star Wars: The Clone Wars with a panel. And finally, all you bad fans won’t want to miss the Breaking Bad reunion where cast members will reflect on memories together and discuss the legacy of the show.
No-Shows:
Don’t expect much from Marvel, as they’re allowing their fans bereavement after Infinity War. Additionally, HBO’s Game of Thrones and Westworld have announced that they will not be making an appearance due to scheduling conflicts and air dates. If you’d still like some George R. R. Martin news, he will be discussing the T.V. adaptation of his 1980 novella, Nightflyers. No news on wrapping up the real truth of Westeros though. Psssst … we’re still waiting on those books, George!
Shut up and take my money:
Funko Pop! collectors/video game enthusiasts are already dusting off their shelves for this year’s exclusives. Destiny 2’s Sweeper Bot and Overwatch’s Soldier: 76 exclusive Grillmaster: 76 Pop will be available at the event. For those uninterested in the video game scene, there are also Pops from the Incredibles (Edna Jack Jack—incredibly creepy), Tina from Bob’s Burgers (on a unicorn), translucent Moaning Myrtle and Nearly Headless Nick from Harry Potter and plenty of superheroes like Thor with Odin Force, cheerleader Deadpool, metallic Flash and 8-bit Batman.
So, get ready to nerd out. If you have any questions on what to do or where to stay in San Diego, chat us up!