Comic-Con Offsite Events and Parties
- Elizabeth Bickford
- Jul 21
- 14 min read
What to do at Comic-Con without a badge - Comic-Con in San Diego is one of the largest events celebrating pop-culture. So many production groups, film companies, artists, and so much more come together to celebrate the culture that unites us! This list shares the events and parties you will find outside of the convention floor.
Below is a compilation of journalistic snooping and press releases - enjoy!
Free Events - No Badge Required
Fandom Party
The All-American Rejects recently have been in the media for their pop-up event style concerts. Showing up all around the United States in unlikely spaces like backyards and corn fields. The group is well known for their singles like "Gives you Hell", "Dirty Little Secret", and "Move Along". The All-American Rejects are one of the most iconic bands of the 21st-century and are sure to provide an amazing show for those lucky enough to attend the Fandom Party on July 24th at rooftop space FLOAT at the hard rock Hotel.
More details to come but follow Fandom on X - That is where the info will be released first! This is a must see for Comic-Con Offsite Events and Parties!
Crunchyroll Anime Fan Fest
Crunchyroll, the global hub for all things anime across content, music, fashion and more, has officially announced their first-ever, two-day music festival at San Diego Comic-Con!
Open to the public and Con-goers on Friday, July 25 and Saturday, July 26 at The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park, Crunchyroll Anime FanFest will feature global, anime-inspired artists across Pop, EDM, Hip-Hop, Rap, Urban, R&B, Latin and more. This immersive music event follows Crunchyroll's hit concert series that resonated with fans at SDCC in 2024, featuring LiSA and The One Piece 25th Anniversary Symphony Voyage.
The music event emphasizes anime's global resonance and influence across a variety of genres, and reiterates Crunchyroll's pulse on the love, power and cultural impact of the medium. Thoughtfully timed to SDCC, this public event ensures that fans of all kinds can experience the music and further connect with the world of anime.
Paramount + Lounge
The Paramount Lodge is scheduled to return to San Diego for the 3rd time! The Lounge has been a highlight and must-see attraction for many. It's highly sought after for those with and without a Comic-Con badge. This activation has typically had a standby line, and it is managed very effectively. You might not have the full time inside but it's worth the wait.
The Lodge will be open Wednesday, July 23 – Sunday, July 25 and it is typically in the Happy Does Bar location.
The first round of tickets has already been released but I expect there will be another chance once the full SDCC panel line up is announced. You can add your name to the notify list here.
Here is are reels from last year. Paramount + also hosted a scavenger hunt which had a great prize bag!
HBO MAX Fan Experiences: PEACEMAKER And IT: WELCOME TO DERRY
HBO MAX is looking to bring fans a sneak preview and immersive experience of their original content. The Peacemakerr experience will transform Do you know when I club into an 80s glam rock experience complete with Photo Booths and game stations. Consider taking a ride in an IT: Welcome to DERRY Pedicab as part of their HBO MAX promotion. More details from HBO MAX are below:
“Full Details for PEACEMAKER:
From Thursday, July 24 through Saturday, July 26, HBO Max will bring Peacemaker’s favorite alternate dimension to life with an immersive 80’s glam rock bar experience at Nova San Diego nightclub. Guests will enter Peacefest through the Quantum Unfolding Chamber, featuring all of Peacemaker’s favorite things including exclusive fan access to the Peacecycle from Season 2 and a limited opportunity for select fans to meet Peacemaker’s sidekick Eagly, in partnership with the American Eagle Foundation. Throughout the experience, fans can rock out to live musical performances, grab drinks and play themed games at Harcourt’s KO Corner Bar or visit Vigilante’s Hero S*** Merch Shop, where exclusive merchandise from Warner Bros. Discovery Global Consumer Products, DC Shop, licensed partners McFarlane Toys, Sideshow and Upper Deck will be available for purchase. Peacefest will also feature interactive character themed booths like Adebayo’s Hero Test Photo Booth and Economos’ Ops Mortal Kombat gaming station.
Fan can now register at peacefest2025.com. Reservations are limited and will be available on a first-come, first-served basis. Participants will be selected for the Eagly meet-and-greet while waiting for entry to “Peacefest” during their reserved time. All guests must be 21 or older to attend.
Peacefest | Nova SD Club - 454 Sixth Ave, San Diego, CA
Thursday, July 24: 11:00am - 8:30pm
Friday, July 25: 11:00am - 8:30pm
Saturday, July 26: 1:00pm - 2:00pm
Saturday, July 26: 7:00pm - 10:00pm (VIP Press Night)
On Saturday, July 26, Peacefest will close out with an invite-only VIP press night featuring appearances by the PEACEMAKER cast, executive producers, DC talent, and headlining live musical performances by Foxy Shazam and Steel Panther. Throughout “Peacefest”, a limited number of fans will be randomly selected to attend the VIP press night.”
“Full Details for IT: WELCOME TO DERRY:
On Friday, July 25 and Saturday, July 26, the HBO Original series IT: WELCOME TO DERRY will creep into San Diego with roaming Pennywise-inspired pedicabs offering free rides and brand ambassadors handing out chilling sweets throughout the San Diego Convention Center, Gaslamp Quarter, and Harbor areas.”
HULU King of the Hill Activation
Transport yourself to Hank Hill’s backyard! Located next to the Convention Center on the Bayfront’s Parking Lot (Fifth Ave Landing - Lot A1) - 600 Convention Way, San Diego, CA 92101 - Hank Hill’s Backyard will allow fans to experience what life is like in Arlen, Texas. Starting July 24 at 11:30am - 7pm, July 25-26 from 9:30am-7pm daily, and July 27 from 9:30am–5pm
What to expect in the activation:
Alamo Pong
Guests will get a chance to partake in a game of ‘Alamo Pong’, participating in some friendly competition in hopes of winning a prize and claiming Alamo Pong championship. Large-scale 2D cutouts of the King of the Hill’s beloved characters will be stationed throughout the space for special photo opportunities.
Lawn Mower Photo Op
Guests have the once-in-a-lifetime chance to picture themselves in the world of King of the Hill. The Lawn Mower photo opportunity moment features the iconic Hill residence, where guests can pose on the front lawn with large-scale 2D cutouts of the beloved Hill family, ride the family lawn mower, and ‘drive’ through Arlen, Texas.
Mega Lo Mart Customization Hat Station
Visit the Mega Lo Mart, an Arlen staple, to customize your own Trucker hat with special patches, unique to King of the Hill. With an array of hats and colors to choose from, guests will be fitting in with the citizens of Arlen in no time!
Water Tower
Quench your thirst with a crisp can of Alamo water under the Arlen water tower. Not only does the water tower serve as a beacon of Arlen, Texas – it will also be a rehydration point for attendees. Guests will receive cold-canned water in Alamo branded aluminum cans. You can choose to drink it to quench your thirst or take it home as a souvenir.
Rhinestein’s Cowboy Boot Toss
Visit Rhinestein’s Cowboy storefront for a game of boot toss. Guests will be given 2 pairs of oversized, animated-style boots with the goal of tossing the open side of the boot over a stake in front of the store. The lucky winners will receive prizes exclusive to the activation.
Backyard Cookout
Unwind in the Hill’s Backyard with a backyard cookout. Guests can refuel and rest at umbrellas and picnic tables with the Hill family. Texas-inspired BBQ bites will be served all day, keeping guests in the world of Arlen. Guests will be invited to participate in lawn games such as cornhole, and pose with photo opportunities from the show, like Dale’s Dead Bug van and more! There will be a large grill playing clips from the previous and new season of the show, for guests to enjoy while relaxing.
Adult Swim's Pirate Purrrty on the Green
Back for another year of fun on the lawn outside of the Hilton Bayfront hotel you can find Adult Swim! This is another fun no badge required SDCC option!
Adult Swim’s Pirate Purrrty on The Green - Site URL: https://www.adultswim.com/sdcc
Press will be able to experience the below before anyone else at the Con!
“SMILING FRIENDS” Break Room – Step into a real-life recreation of the iconic break room, snap a photo, and get exclusive merch.
“Rick and Morty” Buttworld Bounce House – Bounce into the bizarre with this inflatable tribute to one of the show’s most unforgettable dimensions.
Adopt-a-Cuy Station – Inspired by the upcoming series “Women Wearing Shoulder Pads,” fans can take home their very own (plush) pet cuy.
“Common Side Effects” Mushroom Hunt – Search for hidden fungi and claim an exclusive plushie from the upcoming series.
Games, Photo Ops And Nightly DJ Sets – The party doesn’t stop with interactive games, themed photo moments, and live DJ sets under the stars.
Abbott Elementary Block Party
ABC is bringing back Abbott Elementary for another off-site party this year. AVA fest was such a hit last year and this is sure to be a high demand event once again. The Ferris Wheel is returning and lots of fun and games. Giveaways include Bucket hats, Shaved Ice, Fanny Packs, and much more!
HOURS
Thursday and Friday - 9:30 AM - 7 PM
Saturday - 9:30 AM- 5:30 PM
Sunday - 9:30 AM - 5 PM
South Park in San Diego
South park is headed to San Diego. This re-experience is a ticketed event. GRAB YOUR TICKETS HERE.
Step into the world of South Park at Quartyard in San Diego - Friday 7/25 and Saturday 7/26.
This free, interactive fan experience is open to the public on a first come, first serve reservation basis. The immersive experience will feature photo moments, fan-favorite episode screenings, themed food and beverage, giveaways, exclusive merchandise, cosplay contests, trivia, karaoke and more.
The experience is broken into 5 one-hour daytime reservations and 2 two-hour evening reservations on both Friday 7/25 and Saturday 7/26.
Select your reservation time, up to 4 attendees max per RSVP. Ticket confirmation will be sent via email.
Reservations are based on a first come first serve availability. Once confirmed, additional details about the experience will be provided via email in advance of the event.
Please Note: Cosplay Contest and Karaoke will only be available during evening reservations.
Important Details:
A San Diego Comic-Con Badge is not required to attend.
Children 16 years and under must be accompanied by an adult.
You may only select 1 timeslot per reservation.
4 Attendees maximum per reservation.
Ticket holders are given a 15 minute grace period for their reserved timeslot before being opened up to stand-by attendees.
Standby Information:
A limited amount of standby access will also be available at the door (subject to availability). Please arrive at the venue 15 minutes before a time slot to check on standby access
FX The Wreckage Activation
FX will be bringing The Wreckage to comic-con 2025. This activation is not offering advanced ticketing so it will be standby only. Please note that this is an 18+ activation, so please plan accordingly. Find full details from FX below:
“FX will be transporting fans into the immersive world of FX’s Alien: Earth. Housed on the Hilton Bayfront Lawn, the experience will bring the mysterious wreckage of the USCSS Maginot to San Diego Comic-Con, complete with interactive thrills and never-before-seen alien specimens. Guests can visit “The Wreckage” during the day to explore new areas of the USCSS Maginot or brave a terrifying mission at “The Wreckage: Code Red” once the sun goes down.
Where: Hilton Bayfront Lawn (1 Park Blvd, San Diego, CA 92101)
Thursday, July 24th
- The Wreckage: 11am - 4pm
- The Wreckage: Code Red: 4:30pm - 8pm
Friday, July 25th
- The Wreckage: 10am - 4pm
- The Wreckage: Code Red: 4:30pm - 10pm
Saturday, July 26th
- The Wreckage: 10am - 4pm
- The Wreckage: Code Red: 4:30pm - 10pm
Sunday, July 27th
- The Wreckage: 11am - 3pm
Activation is open to the public ages 18+. Admission is free.”
Clown in a Cornfield - The Experience
Information for their ticketing site:
"Inspired by IFC Entertainment Group’s smash hit film CLOWN IN A CORNFIELD, which makes its streaming debut on Shudder and AMC+ on August 8, Comic-Con attendees get a chance to test their mettle and evade Frendo on his cornfield home turf. The fan experience will immerse attendees within settings from the film, beginning in the town square during the Founders Day parade, which gives way to a corn maze. Once through the maze, a refuge and celebration for “survivors” awaits with the Shudder Survivors Party, featuring photo opps., games and giveaways.
To snag your spot on Frendo’s victim list, keep an eye on @Shudder on Instagram and Twitter. Ticketing goes live Monday, July 21st.
Daily admission is limited, but a standby line will be available for the brave and the bold.
The event is free and not recommended for children under 13. Anyone under 18 must be accompanied by a guardian 18+."
Twisted Metal Bumpers Battle
Information from Peacock on the Activation:
"Fans will step into a post-apocalyptic world filled with bumper-to-bumper chaos at Peacock's Twisted Metal Bumper Battle. As an homage to the Twisted Metal tournament at the forefront of Season 2, fans will be able to choose their ride, featuring the show’s most iconic vehicles reimagined as bumper cars, and take part in their own version of the Calypso hosted derby. In addition to the bumper car experience, fans can expect epic photo ops, a display of some of the tournament cars featured in the series, surprise and delight moments, and pandemonium around every corner.
HOURS:
Thursday, July 24: 12PM - 4PM
Friday, July 25: 12PM - 6PM
Saturday, July 26: 12PM – 6PM
WHERE: THE LOT @ 1ST & J - 450 2nd Ave, San Diego, CA 92101
Event is free and open to the public. No badge required. Entry and bumper car participation are first come, first served, and not guaranteed. Waivers must be signed by all riders and passengers. Must be 18+ to participate or have consent of a parent or legal guardian."
Thunderbolts* Treatz Truck
Marvel is rolling into town with the treat for San Diego:
The Treatz Truck will be at Comic-Con, open from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. July 24-26, and 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. July 27.
Guests can choose from one of five options, each themed to a member of the superhero team:
U.S. Agent: “American Shield” — vanilla soft serve with blueberry topping and red sprinkles;
Ghost: “Vanishing Vanilla” — vanilla soft serve with coconut flakes and whipped cream;
Bucky: “Winter Soldier Swirl” — chocolate soft serve with chocolate syrup and cherry topping;
Red Guardian: “Strawberry Red Glory” — vanilla soft serve with strawberry topping and red gummy bears;
Yelena Belova: “Killer Charm Sundae” — vanilla soft serve with mango boba topping.
Percy Jackson Experience
Percy Jackson is set to host pop up activation on the corner of Fifth & L street outside of the convention hall. The world of Percy Jackson & The Olympians: Sea of Monsters will welcome you to interact with their fandom and invite you to explore exclusive merchandise.
HOURS
Thursday 11 AM - 8 PM
Friday 10 AM - 8 PM
Saturday 9 AM - 8 PM
Sunday 9 AM - 5 PM
Lilo & Stitch Shaved Ice
Island themed photo opportunities and shaved ice will welcome guests at the Lili & Stitch offsite. No badge required - just look for the truck outside of the Omni Hotel at the end of Sixth Avenue, from July 24 through July 27. Hours are 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. daily, with an early closure at 2 p.m. on Sunday.
Coca-Cola Holocreator
Looks like we'll have a Star Wars treat this year compliments of Coca-Cola! I found information of the activation on Gaslamp.org:
"Step into a galaxy far, far away with HOLOCREATOR, an immersive Star Wars augmented reality experience presented by Coca-Cola and Fandom. As part of the “Refresh Your Galaxy” campaign, this four-day activation lets fans:
Create and record a custom holographic message in iconic Star Wars-style AR backdrops
Take home limited-edition Star Wars Coca-Cola cans and bottles (while supplies last)
Share uplifting Star Wars-themed hologram transmissions with friends and family
The HOLOCREATOR is the centerpiece of a North American Coca-Cola x Fandom collaboration rolling out across digital, experiential, and social platforms."
Location: 333 First Ave, San Diego, CA 92113 (Just steps from the Convention Center)
Dates:
Thursday, July 24 – Saturday, July 26 | 10:30 AM – 7:00 PM
Sunday, July 27 | 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM"
Not ALL Free but still Fun No Badge Required Events
Comic-Con Museum in Balboa Park
This year, the Comic-Con Museum is the ONLY place you can see this amazing collection of Doctor-Who memorabilia. This includes the wardrobe of EVERY Doctor since the beginning of the show! This carefully curated exhibit is on loan to the Comic-Con Museum for one year. This is a Must-See highlight and a huge reason why you should make time to visit Balboa Park. In addition to this exhibit there is plenty more to explore including a Lucha Libre exhibit, Luann Comics, SDCC Masquerade display, and even a Comic-Con Store. Check out my full write up on the Comic-Con Museum here.
Margaritaville Comic-Con Take Over!
Margaritaville states: "From Thursday, July 24 through Sunday, July 27, guests can expect a daily lineup of themed drinks, with costumed attendees entered into daily raffles for a chance to win prizes during Comic-Con.
Daily Themes:
Thursday, July 24: Anime Takeover — Sip on the Sailor Moon Margarita and Dragon Ball Daiquiri in your best anime cosplay
Friday, July 25: A Galaxy Far, Far Away — The Force Margarita & Dark Side Daiquiri (served with lightsaber drink stirrers) join a special “Cantina Vibes” menu
Saturday, July 26: Gaming Icons — Mario, Pokémon, Zelda, and Sonic take center stage with Gold Coin Margaritas and Pika Punch
Sunday, July 27: Superhero Showdown — Marvel meets DC in this final face-off, complete with Hulk Smash and Wonder Woman-tini cocktails
It’s Comic-Con, Margaritaville-style, because even superheroes need a little break in paradise!
Up on the rooftop, 5 o’Clock Somewhere Bar will serve as a relaxing escape from the Comic-Con hustle – offering an island-inspired getaway for superheroes, villains, and aliens alike."
Geeky Tiki x False Idol
This year the special event hosted by Geeky Tiki at Falso Idol is partnering with Whistle Pig Whiskey and Planetary Rum. There will be three seating options: 4:30pm-6:30pm, 7pm-9pm, and 9:30pm-11:30pm.
Tickets are $65 per person and include two drink tickets that also double as raffle tickets. Additional drink purchases will receive another raffle ticket to increase chances of winning. Attendees will also receive a swag bag worth over $50.
Visit False Idol's IG on July 6th for tickets or check out their Open Table page.
Nerd Nite SD
Join Nerd Nite for the 2025 Comic Con Special! Enjoy flash talks, expert panels, and trivia with esteemed AAAS Ambassadors. This event has little of something for anyone, it's a fun night filled with pop-up discussions, excellent panels and lot of networking!
The vent will be at The Kensington Club on Adams Avenue! Doors opens at 6pm, show starts at 6:30pm!
Rooftop Cinema Club
Comic-Con movies on the roof top - located at the 4th floor of the Grand Hyatt. Enjoy spectacular views and excellent company while watching a few fan favorite films. This location is a favorite with locals. Check out my last visit to the space here. There is also something fun happening at the Rooftop Cinema Club.
Here's the current Schedule:
Monday, July 21
7pm — Twilight
10pm — Pretty Woman
Tuesday, July 22
7pm — Supernatural Mini Marathon (featuring episodes: “Mystery Spot,” “Lazarus Rising,” and “Swan Song”)
Wednesday, July 23
9:45pm — 500 Days of Summer
Sunday, July 27
7pm — Practical Magic
9:30pm — Inception
I've heard there may be some private screenings during the week so we will keep our ears to the ground to hear what that will be and how to get access.
TOHO Store Takeover
The Super7 store is ground zero for Godzilla’s (Minus One) assault on San Diego Comic Con. The store has been transformed into a recreation of the iconic “train biter” scene from the movie. Godzilla Station will feature a Godzilla train entry way, destroyed interior and exterior, actual movie props, Godzilla cosplayers, Kaiju Response Team Staff, and exclusive toys and apparel. Location: 701 8th Avenue, San Diego, CA 92101
HOURS
July 23 7 PM - CLOSE
July 24 - July 26 OPEN 10 AM - 8 PM
July 27 10 AM - 7 PM
Learn more by visiting their site.
Napolean Dynamite Live! - 20th Anniversary Screening
To celebrate the 20th anniversary of the cult classic film Napoleon Dynamite stars of the show Jon Heder and Efren Ramirez will join a viewing on Friday, July 25th at 7pm at the Balboa Theatre. Guests will watch the film then be greeted by the stars that includes a unique blend of comedy show, game show, and Q&A.
Tickets go on sale Jine 27th at 10 am through Ticketmaster but presale starts now
Presale code TINAEATS
Hello Kitty Cafe Truck!
The Hello Kitty Cafe Truck is rolling back into San Diego for Comic-Con. Hello Kitty is celebrating her 50th anniversary. They will host a variety of sweet treats and adorable merchandise.
You can find the truck at the Petco Interactive Zone (Lexus Lot) on Thursday, July 24 – Saturday, July 27 from 10am-6pm daily, Sunday, July 28 from 10am-4pm.
Find more Hello Kitty Cafe Truck Locations HERE
Malibu Barbie Cafe Pop-Up!
Malibu Barbie Cafe pop-up experience is complete with a roller rink and restaurant, and much more! We expect there to be 21+ skate night during Comic-Con and daytime all age events. This will not require a Comic-Con Badge, but you will need to purchase tickets. Tickets start at $25.15 and can be purchased through Bucket Listers.
Museum of Illusions San Diego
Newly opened in San Diego, the Museum of Illusion is a fun way to spend the afternoon. It features mind-bending exhibits and a great look at trick photography. Similar styles of photography and filming are used in major motion pictures like The Lord of the Rings, Jurassic Park, and the original Start Wars Trilogy. Get the chance to interact with the exhibits and take some great pictures to share.
Please check back soon! LOTS TO COME!
PAST Comic-Con Offsite Events and Parties
Below find some articles and reels on past events.
