Jeri Jacquin
Yes, it has been a year as San Diego Comic-Con International returns to the Convention Center in Downtown San Diego. That means the streets will be taken over by costumes, comic seekers, specialty item seekers, and those looking for fun in the streets. Preview Night is a chance to be the first to see everything that the next four days have to offer.
This year’s cover for the Comic-Con Guide was done by artist Richard Blake. He chose to turn San Diego into a futuristic place. Currently, he is occupied with the short works Metal Hurlant and Astrolabe. His work can be found on Instagram at @evolvedisguise.
Personally, I’m excited to visit Tribble Toys (#5611). They always have such unusual items, and I am a fan of anything unusual. This year they have limited edition items and this year’s exclusive is a Tribble Crew Set. Chronicle Books (#1508) is celebrating the 25th Anniversary of Emily the Strange and items that are not available in stores yet. You can also enter to win a Chronicle Books Prize Pack; good luck!
One of the destinations I have to visit is Earthshot (#5526) because I am a huge PROJECT HAIL MARY fan. Sloosh will have real-time telescope viewing for those who want to see the real Tau Ceti and 40 Eridani A. I’m just hoping to see Rocky! Booths that are participating this year include Titan (#5537) with pins, figures, and panels that include Night of the Living Dead, Blade Runner Comics, Conan the Barbarian, and Smallville’s Kristin Kreuk.
Badali Jewelry (#715) has original jewelry from such iconic works from J.R.R. Tolkien’s LORD OF THE RINGS, as well as Pierce Brown’s RED RISING. Insight Editions (#2129) is offering some amazing exclusives, including Eli Roth’s Ice Cream Man and Guillermo Del Toro’s Pan’s Labyrinth. There will also be guest appearances and signings. It is VIZ (#2813) 40th Anniversary and you know their exclusive giveaways are going to be amazing and iconic. Genseven Creations (#4804) celebrates such works as The Rescuer, Luna Goes to the Moon, Shelton the Skeleton, and The Behavior Monster.
Don’t forget to make your own Funko Pop (#5045), where you can personalize a Funko Pop to look just like you, or maybe you as your own superhero! It is easy to build it yourself, suit it up just as you see yourself, and get a few accessories. I mean, who doesn’t need a few superhero accessories?
Fun booths also include DC at #4545, Hasbro at #3231, Mattel #3029, Lego (#2829), and so many more. The studios bring their booths with Hulu Animayhem (#4229), Star Wars (#2913), Nickelodeon (#4113), Pluto (#3729), and Marvel (#2329).
San Diego International Children’s Film Festival is also a participant during SDCC. I have been a juror for many years and seen some of the most amazing shorts, animation and films. There are works from around the world, and it is a day to hear from the animators and filmmakers. I can’t wait to see what has been submitted this year, and every year I’m always surprised.
San Diego Central Library also has programs related to SDCC. They provide Comic-Con Conference for Educators and Librarians. Their panels speak on the power of comics in education and speak on what it takes to integrate comics in the classroom. At the Neil Morgan Auditorium, web series and other fan panels with creators offer a chance to see and hear from authors and creators.
There is also the opportunity to participate in the 50th Robert A. Heinlein Blood Drive. The Manchester Grand Hyatt Hotel is this year's location. For your donation, there are gifts such as a free Spider-Man T-shirt given out by Marvel Studios, and some donors will be awarded big prizes. So, stop by Wednesday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday 9:00 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. This is a fantastic opportunity to help someone who needs it and get a little swag as a thank you.
Don’t forget the Comic Con Masquerade on Saturday in Ballroom 20. The on-stage costume competition has been a tradition since 1974. It’s truly an opportunity to see some of the best costumes. There is entertainment and awards so attend and see what dedicated costuming looks like at Comic-Con. Her Universe also has a Fashion Show at the Seaport Ballroom on Thursday.
Finally, on Friday is the 38th Annual Will Eisner Comic Industry Award ceremony at the Indigo Ballroom at the Hilton Bayfront. Think of it as the Oscars, and was named for the pioneering comics creator and graphic novelist Will Eisner. The award is given out in 32 categories for works in 2025. Attend the ceremony and cheer on those who have put their heart and soul into their work.
Preview Night doesn’t allow enough time to cover everything in the Convention Hall! Outside, there is so much to see and do; translated, it means it will be a long night. That’s the best part of San Diego Comic-Con International. So much to see, so much to do that it all goes by too quickly!
Now, remember what I say every year: put on your best and most comfortable tennis shoes because you will be breaking records with your steps. Also, this year, San Diego is under a heat advisory, so please dress accordingly and make sure to keep those water tumblers full. Having fun means making sure we all stay hydrated.
Have the best time!!
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