Comic Con

Comic Con is held annually from July 21 to July 24, though the exact dates may vary slightly depending on the year and event organizers. In 2021, for the first time in history, Comic-Con was held entirely online due to the pandemic. This four-day extravaganza attracts fans from around the world. While Comic-Con events take place across the United States, the most iconic celebration is held in San Diego. Today, Comic-Con has grown beyond comics to embrace everything related to pop culture, including television, movies, video games, and fantasy.

History

Comics have had a major influence on literature, cinema, and culture. Characterized by vivid visuals and dynamic storytelling, comic books feature memorable heroes and villains alike. Many iconic stories, like Spider-Man and Batman, have remained popular for decades.

The first Comic-Con was held in 1970 in San Diego and was originally named the Golden State Comic Book Convention. It was founded by a group of comic book fans who wanted a place to gather, share their passion, and discuss their favorite titles. Over time, the event evolved into a cultural phenomenon. Today, Comic-Con events are held in nearly every U.S. state and cover genres ranging from sci-fi and horror to anime and gaming.

Interesting Facts

• More than 100,000 fans attend San Diego Comic-Con annually, making it one of the largest pop culture events in the world. It is even listed in the Guinness Book of Records as the most-attended comic convention.
• The first comic book superhero, the Phantom, was created by Lee Falk in 1936.
• The most expensive comic ever sold was a copy of Amazing Fantasy featuring Spider-Man, which fetched $3.6 million at auction.
• Japan’s manga industry sells around 2 billion comics per year, making it the largest comic book market in the world.
• Superman, first published in 1938, marked the beginning of the Golden Age of comics and remains one of the most enduring characters. Statistics show that Spider-Man is the most popular character among fans.

How to Take Part

The best way to celebrate Comic-Con is to attend in person and immerse yourself in the experience. You’ll meet thousands of like-minded fans, enjoy panels, browse merchandise, and maybe even meet your favorite creators and celebrities. Can’t make it to San Diego? Host your own Comic-Con event at home, dress up as your favorite character, or support your local comic shop by picking up a new title.

When is Comic Con in 2025?

Comic Con is observed from July 21 to July 24 each year.

Observations