How to do Comic-Con in the Gaslamp Quarter

 Comic-Con International 2026: San Diego  

Thursday, July 23th, 2026 –  Sunday, July 26rd, 2026

WHAT’S HAPPENING IN GASLAMP QUARTER?

Experience Comic-Con in the Heart of San Diego – The Gaslamp Quarter

San Diego Comic-Con returns July 23–27, 2026, bringing thousands of fans, cosplay, exclusive activations, themed dining experiences, rooftop parties, pop-ups, and free events to the Gaslamp Quarter.

Whether you have a Comic-Con badge or you’re exploring Downtown San Diego without one, this guide highlights the best restaurants, bars, hotel experiences, and offsite activations happening during Comic-Con week.

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 Where to Eat & Drink during 

Comic-Con 2026

Garage Kitchen + Bar: Comic-Con Super Deals

Available: Thursday, July 23 – Sunday, July 26, 2026
Location: 655 Fourth Avenue, San Diego

Salt & Whiskey: Flavors of the Multiverse

Available: Wednesday, July 22 – Sunday, July 26, 2026 | 1:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Location: Horton Grand Hotel, 311 Island Avenue, San Diego

Step into the multiverse at Salt & Whiskey with a limited-time Comic-Con menu inspired by iconic superheroes and legendary adventures. Located inside the historic Horton Grand Hotel in the Gaslamp Quarter, this Comic-Con dining experience features themed appetizers, specialty cocktails, mocktails, and desserts crafted exclusively for Comic-Con week.

Featured Specials:

• Doctor Strange Portal Wings – Crispy chicken wings tossed in a ginger honey glaze with chili crisp and lime
• Asgardian Meatballs – Swedish-style meatballs with lingonberry glaze and creamy Dijon sauce
• Doom’s Castle Sliders – Three beef sliders with Gruyère cheese, caramelized onions, and black garlic aioli
• Emerald Dominion specialty cocktail
• Ruby Rebellion specialty cocktail
• Quantum Crush mocktail
• Pearl of Talikon cream puff dessert

Gaslamp Lumpia Factory: LumpiaCon Year 5

Available: Thursday, July 23 – Saturday, July 25, 2026
Location: 423 F Street, San Diego

Just 0.6 miles from the San Diego Convention Center, Gaslamp Lumpia Factory brings back LumpiaCon for its fifth year, celebrating the worlds of comics, food, art, and pop culture during Comic-Con weekend. Each evening features a unique themed experience with live entertainment, comic book creators, artists, and special guests, making it a fun stop for fans exploring the Gaslamp Quarter.

Featured Specials:

• Thursday, July 23 – Sketch & Scratch Night (7:00 PM – Midnight)
  • Live DJ set by DJ Marlino
  • Featured artists and live art
  • Original artwork giveaways
• Friday, July 24 – Creators Night (7:00 PM – Midnight)
  • Meet-and-greet with comic book creators
  • Comic book signings
  • Special guest appearances
• Saturday, July 25
  • Theme to be announced (follow Gaslamp Lumpia Factory on Instagram for updates)
• Free admission

Prohibition Lounge: Smuggler’s Bar

Available: Tuesday, July 21 – Sunday, July 26, 2026
Location: 548 Fifth Avenue, San Diego

Hidden behind its signature entrance, Prohibition Lounge transforms into Smuggler’s Bar, an immersive Star Wars-inspired cocktail experience during Comic-Con week. Guests can enjoy an exclusive themed menu, specialty activations, live entertainment, giveaways, and limited-time experiences throughout the week.

Featured Specials:

• Ewok Hunter
• T-16 Skyhopper
• Wookie Pelt
• Marrok & Keibu
• Smuggler’s Code
• Outer Rim Outlaw
• The Last Contract
• Endor Hunting Club

Special Activations:

• Tuesday: Devil’s Grin Star Wars-themed Cocktail Class, plus bottle giveaways and exclusive Comic-Con bottle discounts
• Wednesday: Official opening of Smuggler’s Bar featuring DJ Pleasure Victim spinning Star Wars-inspired sci-fi house music
• Thursday: First 20 guests receive a special Star Wars giveaway
• Friday: Star Wars & Whiskey Tattoo Night beginning at 8:00 PM, with the first 10 tattoos complimentary on a first-come, first-served basis

El Chingon: Nar Shaddaa

Available: Wednesday, July 22 – Sunday, July 26, 2026
Location: 560 Fifth Avenue, San Diego

Step into Nar Shaddaa, the infamous Star Wars moon known for its bustling nightlife, at El Chingon during Comic-Con. This themed experience brings the galaxy’s underworld to the Gaslamp Quarter with a limited-time specialty cocktail crafted exclusively for Comic-Con fans.

Featured Specials:

• Blue Bantha Milk – El Chingon Destilado, coconut, blue curaçao, oat milk, and fresh lime

Havana 1920: Oga’s Cantina

Available: Wednesday, July 22 – Sunday, July 26, 2026
Location: 548 Fifth Avenue, San Diego

Travel to a galaxy far, far away at Havana 1920, where the restaurant transforms into Oga’s Cantina during Comic-Con week. Inspired by the legendary Star Wars cantina, guests can sip on themed specialty cocktails while experiencing an immersive atmosphere in the heart of the Gaslamp Quarter.

Featured Specials:

• Yub Nub – Spiced rum, passion fruit, lime juice, pineapple, and aromatic bitters
• Dagobah Swamp Water – Havana 1920 Rum, fresh lime juice, mint, Demerara, and club soda
• Kyber Crimson Sangria – Havana 1920 Rum, red wine, coconut rum, fresh orange juice, mint, and cinnamon
• Hyperdrive Cold Fusion – Havana 1920 Rum, cold brew, almond orgeat, and sarsaparilla bitters

Pendry San Diego: BERO x Nason’s Beer Hall

Available: Thursday, July 23 – Sunday, July 26, 2026
Location: Pendry San Diego, 550 J Street, San Diego

Celebrate Comic-Con with a limited-time Spider-Man™-inspired experience at Nason’s Beer Hall inside Pendry San Diego. Fans can enjoy BERO, the premium non-alcoholic beer created by Tom Holland, alongside interactive pop culture moments, collectible mementos, and the lively atmosphere of one of the Gaslamp Quarter’s favorite gathering spots.

Featured Specials:

• BERO premium non-alcoholic beer by Tom Holland
• Spider-Man™-themed pop culture experience
• Interactive photo opportunities
• Limited-time memorabilia
• Comic-Con celebration at Nason’s Beer Hall

Pendry San Diego: Donut Bar x Provisional

Available: Thursday, July 23 – Sunday, July 26, 2026 | Starting at 7:00 AM
Location: Provisional Kitchen Patio, Pendry San Diego, 550 J Street, San Diego

Kick off your Comic-Con adventure with character-themed donuts from San Diego favorite Donut Bar at Provisional Kitchen inside Pendry San Diego. Available for a limited time during Comic-Con, guests can enjoy creative daily donut designs alongside Provisional’s pastries and savory breakfast favorites before heading to the convention.

Featured Specials:

• Daily character-themed donuts by Donut Bar
• Limited-time Comic-Con collaboration
• Breakfast pastries and savory favorites
• Available daily beginning at 7:00 AM on the Provisional Kitchen patio

Union Kitchen & Tap: Pokémon Comic-Con Experience

Available: Thursday, July 23 – Sunday, July 26, 2026
Location: 333 Fifth Avenue, San Diego

Step into the Pokémon universe at Union Kitchen & Tap during Comic-Con with a limited-time interactive experience just steps from the San Diego Convention Center. Fans can discover a hidden Pokémon speakeasy, enjoy Eeveelution-inspired specialty cocktails, enter raffles for collectible prizes, and take part in themed events throughout Comic-Con weekend.

Featured Specials:

• Secret Pokémon Speakeasy
• Eeveelution-inspired specialty cocktails
• Raffles and collectible prizes
• Pokémon costume contest on Saturday, July 25
• Weekend brunch buffet available Saturday & Sunday, 8:00 AM – 10:30 AM

Pendry San Diego: PopUp Bagels Pop-Up

Available: Thursday, July 23 – Sunday, July 26, 2026 | Starting at 7:00 AM (until sold out)
Location: Pendry San Diego, 550 J Street, San Diego

Start your Comic-Con morning with a fresh bagel from PopUp Bagels, the “Not Famous but Known®” bagel shop making a limited-time appearance at Pendry San Diego. Located just minutes from the San Diego Convention Center, this breakfast pop-up serves hot bagels with classic schmears—the perfect fuel before a day on the convention floor.

Featured Specials:

• Fresh hot bagels
• Plain or scallion schmear
• Limited-time Comic-Con pop-up
• Available daily beginning at 7:00 AM until sold out

Margaritaville Hotel San Diego: LandShark Lunar Landing Bar

Panevino: The Ultimate Power-Up Comic-Con Menu

Available: During Comic-Con, Wednesday, July 22 – Sunday, July 26, 2026
Location: 722 Fifth Avenue, San Diego

Recharge between Comic-Con adventures with The Ultimate Power-Up at Panevino. Located just steps from the San Diego Convention Center, this Gaslamp Quarter favorite is serving a special three-course Italian dining experience created exclusively for Comic-Con guests. Enjoy authentic Tuscan-inspired cuisine and specialty cocktails before heading back to the convention or an evening of Gaslamp nightlife.

Featured Specials:

• Three-course Comic-Con menu for $45 per person
• Choice of appetizer, entrée, and dessert
• Authentic Italian and Tuscan-inspired cuisine
• $10 house specialty cocktails
• Available exclusively during Comic-Con weekend

The Werewolf: Ghostbusters After Party

Available: Friday, July 24, 2026 | 7:00 PM
Location: 627 Fourth Avenue, San Diego

Keep the Comic-Con excitement going at The Werewolf with its Ghostbusters After Party following the Ghostbusters Muster. Located in the heart of the Gaslamp Quarter, this one-night-only celebration invites fans to gather for themed drinks, cosplay, and an evening of Ghostbusters fun just minutes from the San Diego Convention Center.

Featured Specials:

• Ghostbusters After Party
• Begins at 7:00 PM on Friday, July 24
• Ghostbusters-themed celebration
• Cosplay-friendly atmosphere
• Food, drinks, and late-night Comic-Con fun.

16 Free Comic-Con 2025 Activities You Can Enjoy Without a Badge

Hasta Mañana: Super Troopers 3 Pop-Up Experience

Available: Friday, July 24 – Sunday, July 26, 2026 | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Location: Hasta Mañana Cantina, 310 Fifth Avenue, San Diego

Get ready to say “Meow” as Super Troopers 3 rolls into the Gaslamp Quarter with a free three-day Comic-Con pop-up at Hasta Mañana Cantina. Just steps from the San Diego Convention Center, fans can celebrate the upcoming film with exclusive merchandise, interactive experiences, complimentary pancakes, and photo-worthy displays inspired by the movie. Admission is free and available on a first-come, first-served basis.

Featured Specials:

• Super Troopers 3 immersive pop-up experience
• Exclusive merchandise giveaways
• Complimentary pancakes with Crown Maple syrup (morning hours)
• Bogey Bros putting green
• Apocalypse Hellfire 6×6 truck display inspired by Super Troopers 3
• Free admission (first come, first served)

Hulu: King of the Hill’s Backyard BBQ

Location: Bayfront Parking Lot (Fifth Ave Landing – Lot A1), 600 Convention Way, San Diego, CA 92101

FREE | NO BADGE REQUIRED

Dates & Hours:

• July 24: 11:30 AM – 7:00 PM
• July 25–26: 9:30 AM – 7:00 PM
• July 27: 9:30 AM – 5:00 PM

Step into Arlen, Texas—right in the heart of San Diego. Hulu brings King of the Hill to life with a full-scale backyard cookout activation outside the Convention Center. Explore iconic locations from the show, snack on BBQ bites, and take part in immersive experiences inspired by one of the longest-running animated series on TV.

What to Expect:

• Alamo Pong – Join the backyard tournament and compete for prizes.
• Lawn Mower Photo Op – Hop on the mower and pose in front of the Hill family home.
• Mega Lo Mart Hat Station – Customize your own Arlen-inspired trucker hat with themed patches.
• Water Tower Station – Stay cool with Alamo-branded canned water—yours to drink or keep.
• Rhinestein’s Cowboy Boot Toss – Toss oversized boots for exclusive merch giveaways.
• Backyard Cookout & Chill Zone – Refuel with Texas-style BBQ and relax at picnic tables while watching clips from the show.

No registration required—just swing by, grab a bite, and enjoy the world of King of the Hill brought to life.

Disney’s Lilo & Stitch:  A Taste of Paradise

Location: Gaslamp Diagonal (Near Omni Hotel)  – Sixth Avenue & L Street 

FREE | NO BADGE REQUIRED

Dates & Hours:

• Thursday, July 25 – Saturday, July 26 | 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
• Sunday, July 27 | 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM

Escape the Comic-Con chaos and step into a little slice of paradise with Disney’s Lilo & Stitch: A Taste of Paradise. Located just outside the Omni Hotel, this tropical-themed experience brings the heart and humor of Lilo & Stitch to life with island vibes, interactive fun, and icy treats.

What to Expect:

• Island-Themed Photo Ops – Snap pics in colorful, Instagram-ready backdrops
• Free Shaved Ice – Cool down with daily tropical-flavored treats
• Behind-the-Scenes Moments – Peek into the magic of the franchise
• Character Appearances – Meet Stitch and friends in surprise pop-ups

No badge, no RSVP—just show up, say aloha, and enjoy a sweet taste of Disney’s animated island classic.

Whether you’re a lifelong fan or meeting Stitch for the first time, this is your chance to cool off, snap pics, and celebrate ‘ohana with some sweet Disney magic — no badge needed, just aloha vibes.

Paramount+ Presents: The Lodge – Immersive Fan Experience

Location: Happy Does Bar, 340 Fifth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101

FREE | NO BADGE REQUIRED |Reservation Recommended

Dates & Hours:

• Wednesday, July 23: 6:00 PM – 10:00 PM
• Thursday, July 24 – Sunday, July 27: 9:00 AM – 7:00 PM (daily)

Paramount+ returns to the Gaslamp Quarter with The Lodge, its most expansive Comic-Con activation yet. Spanning five days, this immersive fan takeover features multiple franchises, themed experiences, giveaways, and interactive sets—all under one roof. Whether you’re a fan of drama, sci-fi, sports, or cult classics, The Lodge delivers something for everyone.

Featured Activations Inside The Lodge:

• Dexter: Resurrection – The Vault
  Step inside a chilling shrine of case files and twisted keepsakes curated in true Dexter fashion.
• Star Trek: Strange New Worlds + Starfleet Academy
  Enter an oversized holodeck with episode-based vignettes, sip cosmic cocktails in the Intergalactic Love Lounge, and score themed swag.
• Landman Patch Café
  Visit a recreated Texas watering hole from the new series Landman—complete with signature drinks in souvenir mugs.
• NCIS: Tony & Ziva Paris Café
  Explore a cozy Parisian hideout that leads to a secret safehouse filled with Easter eggs and covert romantic intrigue.
• Mission: Impossible – Suspended Vault Photo Op
  Strike the iconic pose from the original 1996 film in a recreated high-security vault.
• CBS Sports Clubhouse
  Stadium seating, NFL jersey displays, a target-throw challenge, and a UEFA-themed sports bar.
• Fan Frontier Outpost
  While waiting in line, claim your own spot on Paramount Mountain featuring IPs like SpongeBob, Survivor, Yellowjackets, and more. Participants receive a printed and digital deed.
  (Open July 24–26, 11:00 AM–2:00 PM.)
• Pluto TV: Summer of Cinema Activation
  Celebrate Pluto TV’s massive library of free films with popcorn, slushies, and a retro cinema-themed photo moment.

Step into your favorite worlds, snap unforgettable photos, and experience Paramount+ like never before at this five-day fan celebration.

FX Presents: “Alien: Earth” – The Wreckage Experience

Location: Hilton Bayfront Lawn, 1 Park Blvd, San Diego,

FREE | NO BADGE REQUIRED |18+

Dates & Hours:

• Thursday, July 24 – Sunday, July 27

Prepare to be pulled into the terrifying world of Alien: Earth, FX’s newest sci-fi horror series. This summer, FX transforms the Hilton Bayfront Lawn into “The Wreckage,” an immersive, two-part fan experience inspired by the wreck of the USCSS Maginot—complete with interactive missions, mysterious alien specimens, and chilling surprises.

Activation Schedule:

Thursday, July 24

• The Wreckage: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
• The Wreckage: Code Red (night mode): 4:30 PM – 8:00 PM
• FX Insider Drop Site: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Friday, July 25

• The Wreckage: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
• The Wreckage: Code Red: 4:30 PM – 10:00 PM
• FX Insider Drop Site: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Saturday, July 26

• The Wreckage: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM
• The Wreckage: Code Red: 4:30 PM – 10:00 PM
• FX Insider Drop Site: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Sunday, July 27

• The Wreckage: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
• FX Insider Drop Site: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM

Coca-Cola x Star Wars: HOLOCREATOR Experience

Location: 333 First Ave, San Diego, CA 92113 (Just steps from the Convention Center)

FREE | NO BADGE REQUIRED 

Dates:

• Thursday, July 24 – Saturday, July 26 | 10:30 AM – 7:00 PM

• Sunday, July 27 | 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Step into a galaxy far, far away with HOLOCREATOR, an immersive Star Wars augmented reality experience presented by Coca-Cola and Fandom. As part of the “Refresh Your Galaxy” campaign, this four-day activation lets fans:

• Create and record a custom holographic message in iconic Star Wars-style AR backdrops
• Take home limited-edition Star Wars Coca-Cola cans and bottles (while supplies last)
• Share uplifting Star Wars-themed hologram transmissions with friends and family

The HOLOCREATOR is the centerpiece of a North American Coca-Cola x Fandom collaboration rolling out across digital, experiential, and social platforms. No badge? No problem. Just bring your fandom and your best hologram-worthy message.

Brawl Stars: Starr Park Immersive Experience

Location: 5th Ave Landing, 600 Convention Way, San Diego, CA 92101 (floating on San Diego Bay)

FREE | NO BADGE REQUIRED
(Optional: $2 charity donation for guaranteed entry )

Dates & Hours:

• July 24–26: 11:00 AM – 7:00 PM
• July 27: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM

Brawl Stars is bringing its chaotic, candy-colored world to life for the first time in the U.S. with Starr Park, an immersive 45-minute experience floating just outside San Diego Comic-Con. Step onto the Starr Rail, an amusement monorail gone rogue, then dive into Brawl Stars’ signature blend of madness with interactive carnival-style games, meet-and-greets, and in-game prize giveaways.

Highlights Include:

• The Starr Rail – Start your journey on a calm monorail ride that derails into pure mayhem.
• Carnival Chaos – Visit explosive booths like Mike’s Mine, Haunted Haven, and Piper’s Pie Shop.
• Character Encounters – Meet fan-favorite Brawlers like Spike during your adventure.
• MrBeast x Feastables Collab – Grab one of 20,000 limited-edition Brawl Bars for in-game rewards.
• Spike’s Street Team – Catch surprise dares, trivia, pies-to-the-face, and haircuts around town.
• Fountain of Tears – Cool off with free water at Spike’s fountain (bonus: water balloons and giveaways).
• Golden Ticket Hunt – A few lucky fans will score skip-the-line passes for Starr Park.

Peacock’s Twisted Metal: Bumper Battle Experience

Location: The Lot @ 1st & J – 450 2nd Ave, San Diego, CA 92101

FREE | NO BADGE REQUIRED

• Waiver required for participation. First-come, first-served entry.)

Dates & Hours:

• Thursday, July 24: 12:00 PM – 4:00 PM
• Friday, July 25: 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM
• Saturday, July 26: 12:00 PM – 6:00 PM

Peacock is taking fans for a wild ride with the Twisted Metal: Bumper Battle, a high-energy activation crashing into San Diego Comic-Con 2025. Inspired by the post-apocalyptic action-comedy’s upcoming second season, this chaos-fueled experience puts fans behind the wheel of reimagined bumper cars modeled after the show’s most iconic vehicles.

What to Expect:

• Bumper Car Mayhem – Choose your ride and enter the Calypso-hosted bumper car derby.
• Photo Ops – Snap pics with the show’s signature tournament cars and immersive backdrops.
• Surprise Activations – Expect the unexpected with surprise guests, giveaways, and themed chaos.
• Sneak Peek Panel – Catch an exclusive Season 2 preview with EP/star Anthony Mackie on Thursday, July 24 in Ballroom 20 

This immersive event is free and open to the public. Entry is first-come, first-served. Riders must sign a waiver on-site prior to participation.

Adult Swim: Pirate Purrrty on the Green

Location: 5th Avenue Landing & Convention Way, San Diego, CA 92101

FREE | NO BADGE REQUIRED

Dates & Hours:

• Thursday, July 24 – Saturday, July 26
• Daily from 1:00 PM – 7:00 PM

Adult Swim claws its way back into San Diego Comic-Con with Pirate Purrrty on the Green—a hilariously unhinged outdoor activation that fuses pirate antics with feline chaos. Located just outside the convention center, this immersive takeover features fan-favorite show experiences, merch giveaways, panels, and three nights of exclusive outdoor screenings.

Activation Highlights:

• Rick and Morty’s Buttworld Bounce House – Jump into ridiculous fun, Adult Swim style.
• Common Side Effects Mushroom Hunt – Search for plushies and claim a limited-edition prize.
• Smiling Friends Break Room – Snap a photo and grab exclusive merch.
• Adopt-a-Cuy Station – Take home a plush inspired by Women Wearing Shoulder Pads.
• DIRECTV Face Painting Zone – Choose from themed face designs and get a framed souvenir photo.
• Daily Giveaway – First 750 attendees each day receive an exclusive Smiling Friends vinyl figure.

Evening Events: “Adult Swim Nights on the Green” (7:15 PM):

• Thursday, July 24 – Robot Chicken: 20th Anniversary Celebration with Matt Senreich, Seth Green, and special guests.
• Friday, July 25 – Live Table Reads with the casts of Rick and Morty and Smiling Friends.
• Saturday, July 26 – Night of New: Outdoor screening of never-before-aired Adult Swim content, including early Rick and Morty Season 8 finale.

Friday Panels at Indigo Ballroom, Hilton San Diego Bayfront:

• 12:00 PM – Haha, You Clowns: Series Premiere Preview
• 1:00 PM – Rick and Morty Season 8 Panel
• 2:00 PM – Smiling Friends Season 3 Preview

This is Adult Swim at its most chaotic, creative, and cat-obsessed. No badge needed—just show up ready to party, laugh, and maybe even adopt a plush Cuy.

HBO Max: Peacefest – Peacemaker Immersive Experience

Location: Nova SD Nightclub, 454 Sixth Ave, San Diego, CA 92101

FREE | NO BADGE REQUIRED | Reservation Required | Ages 21+

Dates & Hours:

• Thursday, July 24: 11:00 AM – 8:30 PM
• Friday, July 25: 11:00 AM – 8:30 PM
• Saturday, July 26:
• 1:00 PM – 2:00 PM (Public Session)
• 7:00 PM – 10:00 PM (VIP Press Night – Invite Only)

Step into the glam-rock chaos of Peacemaker Season 2 at Peacefest, HBO Max’s wildest Comic-Con activation yet. Hosted at Nova Nightclub in the Gaslamp, this immersive experience throws fans into Peacemaker’s over-the-top universe—complete with bars, music, merch, and exclusive character experiences.

What to Expect:

• Quantum Unfolding Chamber Entrance – Step into Peacemaker’s dimension in full glam style
• Photo Ops & Set Pieces – Including the Peacecycle from Season 2
• Live Music & DJ Sets – Rock out in Harcourt’s KO Corner Bar
• Character-Themed Activations:
• Adebayo’s Hero Test Photo Booth
• Economos’ Mortal Kombat Gaming Station
• Vigilante’s Hero S* Merch Shop** – Exclusive collectibles and apparel from top DC partners
• Eagly Meet-and-Greet – A limited number of fans will be selected onsite for a personal moment with Peacemaker’s sidekick, in partnership with the American Eagle Foundation

Peacefest is 21+ only. Reservations are required and first-come, first-served. VIP press access on Saturday night is by invitation only.

HBO Max: IT – Welcome to Derry Fan Experiences

FREE | NO BADGE REQUIRED

Roaming Activation Dates & Hours:

• Friday, July 25 – Saturday, July 26
• Throughout the day in the Gaslamp Quarter, Harbor area, and near the Convention Center

The terrifying world of IT: Welcome to Derry creeps into San Diego with eerie in-world experiences designed to haunt Comic-Con weekend. HBO Max invites fans to step into the horror with roaming street activations and a late-night teaser event.

What to Expect:

• Pennywise Pedicabs – Free rides around downtown in chilling, clown-themed pedicabs
• Street Teams with Sweets – Brand ambassadors passing out treats with a sinister twist
• Pop-up Moments – Haunting in-world mini activations across the Gaslamp and Harbor area

Abbott Elementary: A Very Abbott Block Party

Location: Outside the San Diego Convention Center (Waterfront)

FREE | NO BADGE REQUIRED

Dates & Hours:

• Expected Friday, July 25 – Sunday, July 27
• Daily hours TBA
  Cost: Free | No Comic-Con badge required

ABC invites fans to the Abbott Elementary Block Party, a schoolyard-style celebration packed with games, snacks, giveaways, and even a Ferris wheel. This waterfront activation brings the energy and charm of the show to life with interactive moments and character-themed collectables.

What to Expect:

• Ferris Wheel – Take in sweeping views of the bay and the con madness
• Lost & Found Swag Zone – Score Abbott-themed hats and bags
• Character Pin Collection – Collect exclusive pins featuring the show’s beloved cast
• Abbott Art Studio – Get your caricature drawn with the faculty
• Philly Treats – Cool off with water ice and snacks from the “corner deli”
• Games & Mini-Rides – Play and win in a fun, playful environment

No permission slips needed—just show up ready to have fun

Voodoo Ranger: Punk Pirate Shipwreck Bar

Location: Behind the Convention Center, along the San Diego Harbor (exact location varies—look for the ship near 5th Ave Landing)

FREE | NO BADGE REQUIRED |21+ ONLY

Dates & Hours:

• Thursday, July 24 – Sunday, July 27
• Daily from 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
  Cost: Free | 21+ only | No Comic-Con badge required

Set sail once again with Voodoo Ranger IPA as their infamous Punk Pirate Shipwreck Bar returns to the San Diego waterfront for its fourth consecutive Comic-Con takeover. Located just steps from the convention center, this docked pirate ship is a high-energy oasis filled with beer, beats, and bold personality.

What to Expect:

• Voodoo Ranger IPAs on Tap – Chill with your favorite brews from the brand’s full lineup.
• Live Entertainment & DJs – Daily music sets and high-seas vibes.
• Interactive Games & Giveaways – Join in the pirate-themed fun for a chance at exclusive swag.
• Scenic Escape – Kick back on deck with harbor views and away-from-the-chaos energy.

Must be 21 or over to enter. Valid ID required. No Comic-Con badge necessary—just come ready to sip, vibe, and sail.

Paramount+: Nerd Out Activation

Location: Lawn behind the Omni Hotel, San Diego, CA 92101

FREE | NO BADGE REQUIRED

Dates & Hours:

• Thursday, July 24 – Saturday, July 26
• Daily from 10:00 AM – 6:00 PM
  Cost: Free | No Comic-Con badge required

Get ready to Nerd Out with Paramount+ at this fun-filled, fan-first activation just outside the Omni Hotel. Open to the public and no badge required, this interactive lawn experience invites fans to celebrate their favorite franchises through themed games, contests, and custom DIY stations.

What to Expect:

• Franchise-Themed Installations – Step into immersive displays inspired by Paramount+ titles.
• DIY Activity Stations – Create, customize, and take home your own fan-made swag.
• Giveaways & Contests – Win exclusive prizes in daily challenges.
• Chill Tent Zone – Take a break from the chaos in a shaded, interactive space.

This activity is free and open to all fans—whether you’re attending the con or just roaming the Gaslamp.

Marvel Studios: Thunderbolts Treatz Truck

Location: Behind the Omni Hotel — Gallery at the Omni, 675 L Street, San Diego

FREE | NO BADGE REQUIRED 

Dates:  July 24 – July 27
Times:

• Thursday – Saturday: 10:00 AM – 7:00 PM
• Sunday: 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM

Marvel Studios is serving chaos cold with the Thunderbolts Treatz Truck, a four-day pop-up celebrating the digital release of Thunderbolts. Enjoy themed soft serve, snag exclusive giveaways, and pose for photos with props inspired by the MCU’s most unpredictable crew.

What to Expect:

• Free Ice Cream – Choose from five custom Thunderbolts-inspired soft serve treats
• Exclusive Swag – Grab limited-edition Marvel goodies while supplies last
• Photo Ops – Snap pics with visuals and props tied to Bucky, Yelena, Red Guardian, and more

Soft Serve Menu:

• American Shield – Vanilla soft serve with blueberry topping and red sprinkles
• Vanishing Vanilla – Vanilla soft serve with coconut flakes and whipped cream
• Winter Soldier Swirl – Chocolate soft serve with chocolate syrup and cherry topping
• Strawberry Red Glory – Vanilla soft serve with strawberry topping and red gummy bears
• Killer Charm Sundae – Vanilla soft serve with mango boba topping

No badge. No registration. Just frosty Marvel mayhem with a cherry (or boba) on top.

Marvel | ECG Vault Exhibit at Sparks Gallery

Location: Sparks Gallery, 530 6th Avenue, San Diego

FREE | NO BADGE REQUIRED 

Dates: July 24 – July 27
Times: Daily, 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM

Marvel fans, collectors, and art lovers are invited to an elevated, one-of-a-kind experience just minutes from the Convention Center. The Marvel | ECG Vault Exhibit is a fusion of rare gemstones, fine art, and premium collectibles, presented by East Continental Gems at Sparks Gallery in the Gaslamp.

What to Expect:

• The One-of-One Power Orb – Featuring a 30-carat natural purple spinel, reimagined as a cinematic-scale collectible
• Infinity Comic Covers Vol. 1–6 – Debut showcase of handcrafted gem-set comic covers
• Exclusive Comic-Con Mavrock Collectible – Only available onsite during the event
• Marvel | ECG Fine Jewelry Line – Crafted with real gemstones from New York’s Diamond District
• Local Pop Art Showcase – A curated exhibit of pop-inspired works by emerging San Diego artists
• Eastar Game Manufacturing Display – Miniatures, figurines, board games, and collectibles for all ages
• VeVe Digital Collectibles Activation – Special Friday night experience

South Park: Comedy Central Fan Celebration

Location: Quartyard, 1301 Market St, San Diego, CA 92101

FREE | NO BADGE REQUIRED 

Dates & Hours:

• Friday, July 25 – Saturday, July 26
• Daily from 11:00 AM – 11:30 PMComedy Central is turning downtown San Diego into South Park for a two-day immersive experience filled with absurdity, nostalgia, and fan-driven chaos. From cosplay contests and trivia to karaoke and exclusive giveaways, the Quartyard will transform into the ultimate South Park playground.What to Expect:
  • Interactive Photo Ops – Step inside iconic South Park scenes
  • Cosplay Contest – With categories like Best Kenny, Kyle, Stan, Butters, Funniest, Most Creative, and more
  • Live Trivia & Karaoke – Join the fun and test your South Park knowledge
  • Exclusive Giveaways & Merch – Grab limited-edition swag
  • Snacks & Treats – Enjoy themed concessions throughout the day