Mayor Todd Gloria kicked off this year’s Comic-Con International at the San Diego Convention Center, highlighting the convention’s economic impact on the region. After a successful post-pandemic return in 2022, San Diego Comic-Con returns for its 54th year from July 20 through 23. Since its inception in 1970, Comic-Con has grown into one of the most significant events in the entertainment industry, with a profound impact on San Diego's economy and identity.  

“Comic-Con has been a celebrated fixture for decades, and we are so proud that this international phenomenon was homegrown right here in San Diego,” said Mayor Todd Gloria. “This much-anticipated annual event not only draws thousands of tourists and generates hundreds of millions in economic activity in our City, but it’s also a true source of civic pride. We are grateful for their continued presence here.”

Every year, Comic-Con attracts hundreds of thousands of pop-culture fans to the region. In 2022 alone, Comic-Con welcomed more than 135,000 attendees and generated $3 million in hotel and sales tax revenue for the city. 

“I’m thrilled to take part in the annual Comic-Con taking place here in the vibrant district I have the privilege of representing,” said Assemblymember Tasha Boerner. “Comic book and pop-culture fans come to San Diego and spend their summers greatly contributing to our small businesses and supporting local tourism. We’re excited for another year of fun and creativity!”  

Comic-Con is the largest comic book and popular-arts convention of its kind in the world. Comic-Con's exhibit halls feature more than 460,000 square feet of floor space and more than 1,000 exhibitors each year. In addition to the San Diego Convention Center, the event features more than 2,000 hours of programs, workshops and events covering nearly every aspect of the popular arts. 

“Comic-Con not only fills our Convention Center but transforms Downtown San Diego into a ‘Super’ celebration all its own,” said Councilmember Stephen Whitburn. “Adding to the atmosphere, this year visitors and locals alike can stroll right down the newly designed Fifth Street Promenade as they enjoy restaurants and shops catering to people in and out of costume. Comic-Con is a chance to show off America’s Finest City worldwide.”  

Notable guests attending this year’s Comic-Con include Bandai Namco, VIZ Media, Jungi Ito, Marvel booth, DC booth, Lucasfilm booth, Funko booth, LEGO booth, Mattel booth, panels from Paramount Pictures, Paramount+, Max, Legendary, Prime Video, Peacock, AMC, Nickelodeon, CBS and FX Networks.  

Since its inception, the convention has been housed in a variety of different venues including the U.S. Grant Hotel, UC San Diego, El Cortez Hotel, San Diego's Convention and the Performing Arts Center, but it has really grown and flourished in its current location at the San Diego Convention Center. 

“For more than 30 years, the San Diego Convention Center has served as the annual home of Comic-Con, the world’s premier comics and popular-arts convention,” said Rip Rippetoe, president and CEO, San Diego Convention Center. “This week, we’ll welcome longtime attendees back to San Diego and introduce first-time visitors to our beautiful city, all while serving as a vibrant gathering place for boundless creativity, discovery, connections and fun.” 

“We are excited to welcome the world back to San Diego for Comic-Con,” said David Glanzer, Chief Communications & Strategy Officer of the San Diego Comic Convention. “We look forward to the celebration of all things popular arts and perhaps just as importantly, the creation of community and comradery that Comic-Con is famous for.” 

The Comic-Con programming schedule is available through the free Comic-Con App, which can be downloaded through the App Store and Google Play. The App will include live updates, a complete program schedule, an interactive map, special guest bios and more. 

“Comic-Con is iconic to our summer season and is vital to San Diego’s tourism economy,” said Julie Coker, president and CEO of the San Diego Tourism Authority. “Comic-Con’s economic activity goes beyond the visitor spending in our hotels, restaurants and attractions. The event’s impact extends to several other local businesses including event companies, design firms, florists and more. Additionally, the nonstop news and social media coverage of Comic-Con keeps San Diego top-of-mind for people considering their future travel plans.” 

The City of San Diego’s Police and Fire-Rescue Departments have committed additional resources to ensure the safety of visitors both inside and outside of the Convention Center. The City’s public safety departments do everything possible to make sure big events like Comic-Con are safe for everyone.  

“The San Diego Police Department looks forward to Comic-Con and the excitement it brings to San Diego every year,” said Police Chief David Nisleit. “Our priority is ensuring everyone has a safe and enjoyable time at Comic-Con. Our teams are working closely with Comic-Con International, the San Diego Convention Center and our partner agencies for the safety of all.” 
  
“Fire-Rescue Department inspectors also work closely with event organizers to ensure compliance with fire code regulations which keep everyone safe,” said Fire Chief Colin Stowell. “In addition to inspectors, our emergency medical services personnel will be prepared in case medical treatment is needed.”  

July 20, 2023