Comic-Con 2026: Full Schedule

11:30am PDT

Success in Creativity Mixer: Meet Other Creatives and Get Time with the Experts

Thursday July 23, 2026 11:30am - 12:30pm PDT

Marina D, Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina

Attendees can meet people in and outside their fields and get dedicated one-on-one time with experts who typically speak on the "Success in Creativity" panels. Experts on hand include Luke Cheesman (director of media, TheConGuy.com, and screenwriter), James Frye (managing editor, TheConGuy.com, and screenwriter), Renah Wolzinger, Ed.D. (director at Eduvators; owner, Renzone Music), Stephen Burns (Photoshop digital artist, author, and lecturer), Ron Coleman, Ph.D. (molecular geneticist and comic writer), Matt Cousin (writer and comic artist/illustrator), Marsia Powers (Fandom Charities and Hellmouth Con), and Topher Davila (art director, TheJewelryDragon.com; illustrator and producer). Each attendee will receive three postcards covering topics and solutions from past panels. Business cards or any item with name, email, and phone number are recommended.

Thursday July 23, 2026 11:30am - 12:30pm PDT
Marina D, Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina

1: Programs, Art and Illustration, Marriott Programs, Movies, Writers & Writing

1:00pm PDT

Concept to Creation: A Writers Forum

Thursday July 23, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT

Marina D, Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina

Are you passionate about writing, creating, and storytelling? Do you have a book, script, or idea in need of some TLC? Creative professionals lead a discussion for independent authors, creators, and artists. Featuring host April Wahlin (author, Pandora Syndrome), Doc Farrow (actor, Young Sheldon), Jessica Maison (comics publisher, Wicked Tree Press), Aristotle Dreher (content creator and performer, Aristotle Full Throttle), Laurine Price (producer and writer, Phoenix), Dr. Travis Langley (writer, Batman and Psychology: A Dark and Stormy Knight), and Tessa McFionn (novelist, Star-Crossed Negotiations).

Thursday July 23, 2026 1:00pm - 2:00pm PDT
Marina D, Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina

1: Programs, Books, Marriott Programs, Movies, Writers & Writing

2:15pm PDT

The Writers Coffeehouse at SDCC

Thursday July 23, 2026 2:15pm - 4:15pm PDT

Marina D, Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina

The Writers Coffeehouse is a free networking and Q&A session held annually at SDCC and monthly in bookstores around the country. Hosted by New York Times bestselling authors Jonathan Maberry (Joe Ledger Series, V-Wars), Dennis Crosby (Kassidy Simmons), Elle Jauffret (Cosplayed to Death), Henry Herz (Big Bad Book of Kaiju, I Am Wind), Lisa Kastner (author and publisher, Running Wild Press), and Peter Clines (14, The Fold), the Coffeehouse is a lively and interactive program that provides up-to-the-minute information on modern publishing in all its forms, as well as answers to questions that will help writers get ahead in their careers . . . or even break in for the first time. Moderated by Maberry.

Thursday July 23, 2026 2:15pm - 4:15pm PDT
Marina D, Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina

1: Programs, Books, Education, Marriott Programs, Podcasts, Seminars & Workshops, Writers & Writing

5:15pm PDT

Comic Pitch Review

Thursday July 23, 2026 5:15pm - 6:15pm PDT

Marina D, Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina

What is a pitch? A pitch is a concise way to present a project or idea. Many creators develop strong concepts but struggle to communicate them clearly and concisely. Giving a good pitch is a vital skill in bringing a project to life. It is also a skill that can be learned and improved with practice. Creators, especially writers or artists attending the Comic Creator Connection immediately after this event, have the chance to practice giving pitches and receive guidance from a professional writer and speaker coach. Pitch reviews will be conducted by Douglas Neff (professional speechwriter, speaker coach, and host, Comic Creator Connection). Spaces are allotted on a first-come, first-served basis.

Thursday July 23, 2026 5:15pm - 6:15pm PDT
Marina D, Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina

1: Programs, Art and Illustration, Comics, Education, Marriott Programs, Seminars & Workshops, Writers & Writing

7:00pm PDT

Comic Creator Connection

Thursday July 23, 2026 7:00pm - 9:00pm PDT

Marina D, Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina

Are you a writer with a great idea for a comic book series, but you can't draw? Or maybe you're an artist looking to illustrate an incredible story, but you can't write. Where do you go to meet other creators? How is that done? Comic-Con is proud to once again host the Comic Creator Connection, a fast-paced networking event that brings writers and artists together to help them meet new creative partners. Here's how it works: In this two-hour event, writers and artists sit down across from each other at a table. By artists, that means pencillers, inkers, colorists, and more; all are welcome. Then, in five-minute sessions, they talk one-on-one with each other about their ideas and skills. At the end of each five-minute period, participants get up and move on to the next person. If both are interested in furthering the conversation, they exchange contact information. If not, they move on. Think of it as speed dating, but for writers and artists. Pro tip: The room often fills up, so arrive early for the best chance at getting in. Seating begins at 6:45.

Thursday July 23, 2026 7:00pm - 9:00pm PDT
Marina D, Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina

1: Programs, Animation, Art and Illustration, Books, Cartooning and Comic Strips, Comic Creator Connection, Comics, Education, Marriott Programs, Seminars & Workshops, Writers & Writing

10:30am PDT

Creators Assemble: Charisma Check, A Networking Event

Friday July 24, 2026 10:30am - 12:30pm PDT

Marina D, Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina

Tabletop role-playing game creators, publishers, performers, game shop owners, teachers, and library workers have brought greater acceptance to TTRPGs and fan culture. Take a break from hectic convention life to experience "speed dating"-style networking with diverse TTRPG and board game enthusiasts from all backgrounds. This year's lineup includes Eddie Doty, Heather O'Neill, Anais Morgan, Ivy B, Cody Heath, Doriam Couto, Sarah Durnesque, Matt Fantastic, Amanda Panda, Daryl Andrews, Momo Meas, Dustin Staats, Ryan Omega, Reuben Bresler, Jenni Powell, Michael Ortiz, Amber Bracamonte, Jacob Way, and Jason Patrick Galit (JPG), along with TTRPG educators and enthusiasts Joel Bakker, Joe Barrette, and Janie Ghinazzi.

Friday July 24, 2026 10:30am - 12:30pm PDT
Marina D, Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina

1: Programs, BIPOC, Cosplay, Education, Fandom, Games, LGBTQIA+, Marriott Programs, Science Fiction & Fantasy, TTRPG, Writers & Writing

12:45pm PDT

Mixer for Creatives

Friday July 24, 2026 12:45pm - 2:45pm PDT

Marina D, Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina

An inclusive and fun networking mixer, hosted by Jazzlyn Stone. Industry professionals and potential new creative partners can meet and mingle. All levels of professionals are welcome. Bring your business cards.

Friday July 24, 2026 12:45pm - 2:45pm PDT
Marina D, Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina

1: Programs, Art and Illustration, Cartooning and Comic Strips, Marriott Programs, Seminars & Workshops, Writers & Writing

3:00pm PDT

Gaming Creator Connection

Friday July 24, 2026 3:00pm - 5:00pm PDT

Marina D, Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina

The Gaming Creator Connection is an opportunity for game developers—whether currently working in the industry or aspiring to do so—to receive valuable advice, insights, and mentoring from seasoned veterans of the game industry representing diverse professional backgrounds. The GCC is a perfect opportunity to seek expert guidance in art/design, narrative, and business. Participants will have around 10 minutes to speak with a mentor and will be able to rotate between mentors in their field of interest in order to maximize the amount of feedback.

Friday July 24, 2026 3:00pm - 5:00pm PDT
Marina D, Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina

1: Programs, Education, Games, Gaming Creator Connection, Marriott Programs, Video Games

5:15pm PDT

Comic Pitch Review

Friday July 24, 2026 5:15pm - 6:15pm PDT

Marina D, Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina

What is a pitch? A pitch is simply a way to present yourself or your project to others. It is usually a brief speech designed to persuade your listener into supporting what you're doing or what you've made. Most creators have no trouble coming up with great ideas for new comics, but they often struggle to speak clearly and concisely about those ideas to other people. Giving a good pitch is a vital skill in bringing a project to life. Fortunately, it's also a skill that can be learned and improved with practice, and Pitch Review is a great place to do that. Creators who want to get better at pitching their work, especially writers or artists attending the Comic Creator Connection immediately after this event, will have the chance to practice giving their pitch and get invaluable help from a professional writer and speaker coach. Pitch reviews will be conducted by Douglas Neff, a professional speechwriter, speaker coach, and host of the Comic Creator Connection. Spaces are allotted on a first-come, first-served basis, and everyone is welcome to watch and learn from the sessions.

Friday July 24, 2026 5:15pm - 6:15pm PDT
Marina D, Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina

1: Programs, Art and Illustration, Comics, Education, Marriott Programs, Seminars & Workshops, Writers & Writing

7:00pm PDT

Comic Creator Connection

Friday July 24, 2026 7:00pm - 9:00pm PDT

Marina D, Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina

Friday July 24, 2026 7:00pm - 9:00pm PDT
Marina D, Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina

1: Programs, Animation, Art and Illustration, Books, Cartooning and Comic Strips, Comic Creator Connection, Comics, Education, Marriott Programs, Seminars & Workshops, Writers & Writing

10:30am PDT

Game Pitch Review

Saturday July 25, 2026 10:30am - 12:00pm PDT

Marina D, Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina

Professional game developers offer their advice and insight to those seeking to further their dreams of making their game a reality. Participants will have the opportunity to pitch a game for about 5 minutes and then receive constructive criticism on the concept and the pitch. This session will be seated on a first-come, first-served basis, and sign-ups will be taken onsite for the six pitch slots. To participate, participants must be prepared before signing up. Preparation includes: (1) a well-practiced, about 5-minute verbal pitch that clearly explains the game concept, how it is unique to the marketplace, and why it would be worth funding; (2) any hardcopy or digital visuals (images, video, etc.) that help illustrate the concept and viability of the idea (you must bring the device on which participants will display the visuals); and (3) being imaginative and passionate—imagine making a very quick pitch to receive funding for your idea. Sign-ups will begin at 10:00.

Saturday July 25, 2026 10:30am - 12:00pm PDT
Marina D, Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina

1: Programs, Education, Games, Marriott Programs, Video Games

1:00pm PDT

Gaming Creator Connection

Saturday July 25, 2026 1:00pm - 3:00pm PDT

Marina D, Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina

The Gaming Creator Connection is an opportunity for game developers—whether currently working in the industry or aspiring to do so—to receive valuable advice, insights, and mentoring from seasoned veterans of the game industry representing diverse professional backgrounds. The GCC is a perfect opportunity to seek expert guidance in art/design, narrative, and business. Participants have around 10 minutes to speak with a mentor and can rotate between mentors in their field of interest in order to maximize the amount of feedback.

Saturday July 25, 2026 1:00pm - 3:00pm PDT
Marina D, Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina

1: Programs, Education, Games, Gaming Creator Connection, Marriott Programs, Video Games

4:00pm PDT

Creators Assemble: Comics Camaraderie, A Networking Event

Saturday July 25, 2026 4:00pm - 6:00pm PDT

Marina D, Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina

The "speed dating" style networking event returns with new and returning guests. Brief pitches and structured rounds support learning and connecting with industry insiders, retailers, publishers, and creators, including Alex Antone, Barbra Dillon, Charlie Stickney, Heather Antos, Meghan Fitzmartin, Drew Edwards, Lisa Burdage, Dylan Davison, Jessica Maison, David M. Booher, Gamal Hennessy, Jonathan Chance, John Hazard, Joseph P. Illidge, Shannon Live, Tony Fleecs, Katie Pryde, John Berry, Omar Morales, Gabriel Valentin, Jeffrey Snow, Dan Brozo, Brock Smith, and more. Moderators are librarians and educators who work with comics, including Matthew Atherton, Stacy-Michelle Banks, Matt Slayter, Mary Ellen Stout, Joel Bakker, Joe Barrette, Elias Campos, Sophia Juarez, Janie Ghinazzi, Jack Phoenix, Megan Halsband, Allison Dohr, Jana Tropper, and Moni Barrette.

Saturday July 25, 2026 4:00pm - 6:00pm PDT
Marina D, Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina

1: Programs, Anime & Manga, Art and Illustration, BIPOC, Books, Cartooning and Comic Strips, Comics, Education, Fandom, LGBTQIA+, Marriott Programs, Superheroes, Writers & Writing

10:00am PDT

Mixer for Science-Minded Geeks

Sunday July 26, 2026 10:00am - 12:00pm PDT

Marina D, Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina

Pop culture science questions are welcome at this informal mixer, with scientists and fellow fans discussing how science overlaps with favorite fandoms. Attendees can mingle with friendly scientists, including AAAS If/Then ambassadors, as well as experts from Cosplay for Science, Fleet Science Center, Nerd Nite San Diego, the San Diego Science Writers Association, and other science-minded groups.

Sunday July 26, 2026 10:00am - 12:00pm PDT
Marina D, Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina

1: Programs, Education, Fandom, Marriott Programs, Technology - Science - STEM

1:00pm PDT

Tabletop Game Design Pitch Panel

Sunday July 26, 2026 1:00pm - 2:30pm PDT

Marina D, Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina

The Tabletop Game Design Pitch Panel features live pitches to a panel of experts. Pitches are open to everything from fledgling ideas to polished designs. Each designer has roughly 5 to 10 minutes to present and receive feedback. The goal of the event is to help designers hone their skills in presenting their game ideas and to receive feedback about the game concepts themselves. The focus of the event is on education and skill development in the tabletop game industry. Games are reviewed by Tony Serebriany (USAopoly, vice president, inventor relations), Matt Fantastic (Forever Stoked Creative, creative director), Candice Harris (Kickin' It Creative, game designer), and Ross Thompson.

Sunday July 26, 2026 1:00pm - 2:30pm PDT
Marina D, Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina

1: Programs, Games, Marriott Programs, TTRPG

3:00pm PDT

Mixer for Teachers and the Popular Arts Enthusiasts

Sunday July 26, 2026 3:00pm - 4:30pm PDT

Marina D, Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina

Educators bring academic, social, and emotional lessons to life through the popular arts. Which characters resonate with learners and inspire creativity and engagement? How about superhero themes in the classroom? Panelists discuss how various fandoms can enhance curriculum and instruction. With educators Mike Cruz (elementary teacher, Temecula Valley Unified), Derek Heid (high school English teacher, Temecula Valley Unified), Jason Charles (high school ELD teacher, Temecula Valley Unified), Dr. Emily Schindler (senior director of learning and engagement, Comic-Con Museum), Cecilia Carbajal (Upward Bound director, Barrio Logan College Inst.), and Jaime Diego Chavez (counselor, San Diego Unified). Informal conversation time follows with fellow teachers and lifelong learners.

Sunday July 26, 2026 3:00pm - 4:30pm PDT
Marina D, Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina

1: Programs, BIPOC, Education, Fandom, LGBTQIA+, Marriott Programs, Seminars & Workshops, Technology - Science - STEM

Comic-Con 2026

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