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San Diego Comic-Con draws thousands, expected $160M economic boost

comicsJul 24, 2026681,395

Comic-Con is officially underway in downtown San Diego, drawing thousands and expected to bring more than $160 million to the region. City leaders say the event will draw more than 135,000 people this year, filling hotels, restaurants, and local shops. Cosplayers filled the streets on day one, including a Fantastic Four foursome who said they enjoy having their photos taken together, Nathaniel Dahlquist dressed as Hulkling who praised the creativity on display, and Ralph Catignes as Zombie Dr. Strange who called attendance a yearly tradition. Attendee Samantha Powell said she has come six years and treats the convention as a family tradition. Organizers and attendees noted Comic-Con will remain in San Diego through 2030, and some visitors said they plan to return next year. The weekend also featured spotlight moments and disruptions on the streets, including an appearance by Johnny Depp as Ebenezer Scrooge and a Tisha B’Av, linked protest where Jewish groups said kaddish before marching toward Comic-Con.

Matthew Dow Smith
@matthewdowsmith.bsky.social

#FollowFriday Not At San Diego Comic-Con Edition Comic Book Creators, if you're not at SDCC, add yourself below and make sure to tell people about your books! Everyone else, go follow them and check out their work! #ArtistAlley

A crowded artist alley at NYCC
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