Iconic Pop-Culture Convention Places San Diego in International Spotlight
SAN DIEGO – The San Diego Tourism Authority (STDA), in partnership with San Diego Mayor Todd Gloria and the San Diego Convention Center Corporation (SDCCC), announced today that Comic-Con International, the world-renowned pop-culture convention, has signed a new agreement to remain in San Diego through 2027. This ensures that the iconic event called San Diego home for over 50 years will continue bringing fans, creators, and businesses together in America’s Finest City for years.
“Comic-Con is part of San Diego’s identity, and I couldn’t be more thrilled to announce that it will remain here through 2027,” said Mayor Todd Gloria. “This event is not just a celebration of creativity and fandom – it’s a major economic driver for our city, supporting local businesses and showcasing San Diego on a global stage. We’re proud to continue this incredible partnership and look forward to welcoming fans worldwide.”
Attracting well over 135,000 attendees and drawing far-reaching national and international media coverage, the four-day convention has become the world’s premier event dedicated to comics and popular arts.
Since the 1970s, Comic-Con has grown from a small gathering into one of the most anticipated annual events in the entertainment industry. Its speakers, exhibits, films, and games program fill the Convention Center, hotel activities, the San Diego Public Library, and the Comic-Con Museum in Balboa Park. Last year, Comic-Con attracted nearly 2,000 media members from 26 countries.
“Comic-Con is the most famous convention in the world and the largest event we host at the San Diego Convention Center. We never take it for granted,” said Rip Rippetoe, president and CEO of the San Diego Convention Center. “We appreciate the Comic-Con team and all our partners who contribute to a successful event year after year.”
Before today’s announcement, Comic-Con had confirmed plans to continue in San Diego through 2026. Hosting this large-scale event depends on regional collaboration, including coordination with the San Diego Convention Center, the San Diego Tourism Authority, City leadership, and the regional hospitality community.
“We are excited to stay in San Diego for the next few years, which is made possible, in large part, to the many hotels who offer competitive rates and meeting space,” said Comic-Con spokesperson David Glanzer. “It is vitally important to maintain affordable hotel rates for the tens of thousands who visit San Diego for Comic-Con each summer, and while it came down to the wire, we are grateful for the additional hotels who came on board to allow this agreement to be signed.”
Beyond bringing international audiences and attention to the region, Comic-Con creates a significant economic impact. In 2024, the event produced estimated regional effects of more than $160 million and generated more than $3 million in hotel and sales tax revenues for the City of San Diego. Tax revenues generated by outside visitors benefit residents by funding core City services such as public safety and street repair.
“San Diego and Comic-Con are a shining example of what can be achieved when our tourism community works together,” said Shawn Dixon, San Diego Tourism Authority’s board chair. “We thank the Comic-Con International team for their hard work and commitment to ensure Comic-Con remains a San Diego institution.”
The next Comic-Con will occur July 24-27, 2025, with a preview night on July 23.