26 things to watch for at Comic-Con 2025 in San Diego

Comic-Con is back and as big as ever on July 24, with a preview night the night before.

While many of the best events take place inside the San Diego Convention Center at 111 Harbor Drive, there’s something for everyone to do around the Gaslamp Quarter during the event, even without an official entry badge.

Here is a list of major events, celebrities and other exciting events to expect in downtown San Diego during Comic-Con, from A to Z. The full convention calendar of events can be found at comic-con.org.

A

“Avatar: The Last Airbender:” Nickelodeon will celebrate 20 years of “Avatar: The Last Airbender” with a panel looking back at the legacy of the animated series. Original cast members and creators will be featured panelists. 10 a.m. Thursday. Ballroom 20. (Abby Hamblin)

B

Barbie pop-up restaurant: Malibu Barbie Cafe is now open at a downtown hotel, serving family-friendly food and drinks and offering roller skating and Instagram selfie spots. Fans can register online for tickets. Wednesday through Sunday. Bayside Kitchen and Bar, Hilton Garden Inn San Diego, 2137 Pacific Highway. bucketlisters.com/experience/malibu-barbie-cafe-san-diego (Pam Kragen)

Malibu Barbie Cafe will pop up in San Diego in July

C

Comedy Central: Comedy Central is presenting its upcoming slate with the creators and cast of “South Park,” “Beavis & Butt-Head” and “Digman!” Panelists include Trey Parker, Matt Stone, Mike Judge and Andy Samberg. 6:45 to 7:45 p.m. Thursday. Hall H. (Olivia Petty)

D

Doctor Who Worlds of Wonder: One of the largest exhibitions at the museum this season, fans of the beloved “Doctor Who” television series will get the opportunity to travel via TARDIS through all eras of the “Doctor Who” universe. The exhibit includes never-before-seen costume displays of treasured characters, original set props and guided narration through the space-time continuum. Comic-Con Museum, 2131 Pan American Plaza, Balboa Park, San Diego. (Olivia Petty)

Exhibit hall: A massive space inside the San Diego Convention Center, the exhibit hall is the place to find props from famous movies and television shows, exclusive merchandise for sale, character and actor meet-and-greets, giveaways, original art, and of course, hundreds and hundreds of comic books. Between all that, cosplayers wander around and fans stop to buy action figures, play video games and meet their favorite artists. (Abby Hamblin)

F

Film School 101: Every year, Comic-Con runs a four-day, nuts-and-bolts series on how to make a movie for very little money using available video hardware and software, specifically for aspiring filmmakers looking to enter their work into the CCI-IFF. Grand 6, Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina. (Olivia Petty)

G

G.I. Joe animated rock band debut: The fictional band known as Cold Slither from the “G.I. Joe” universe is making its first live appearance at hard rock venue Brick by Brick. The band was made possible through collaboration between Hasbro and Reigning Phoenix Music, bringing nostalgia to the not-quite-real stage. 8 p.m. July 24. Brick By Brick, 1130 Buenos Ave., San Diego. (Olivia Petty)

Nintendo, Hulu shell out thousands for Comic-Con wraps on San Diego trolleys

H

“Hyde:” The beloved fictional character Mr. Hyde will get his own graphic novel series. It’s a creation of Ridley Scott’s company Scott Free and Mechanical Cake. “Hyde” will be discussed on a panel with creatives from the series. 1:30 to 2:30 p.m. Thursday. Hall H. (Abby Hamblin)

I

Independent creators: While some of the biggest brands and studios get a lot of the spotlight at Comic-Con, independent illustrators, writers, artists and other creatives will share their latest works inside and outside the convention center at booths and special events. A panel on Friday called Independent Creators United will address how comic creators can navigate challenges in publishing.

J

Jo Koy: Comedian Jo Koy will be joined by actor and comedian Gabriel “Fluffy” Iglesias for a Hall H panel Q&A. There will be an exclusive giveaway for fans in attendance. 12:15 to 1:15 p.m. Thursday. Hall H. (Abby Hamblin)

K

Stephen King: Longtime readers of the famous author will probably already know that his novel, “The Long Walk,” is being made into a feature film. Cast and filmmakers will attend a panel discussion and participate in a Q&A with fans. 3 p.m. Friday. Hall H. (Abby Hamblin)