San Diego Comic-Con Canceled For First Time In 50-Year History

Organizers of San Diego Comic-Con International have canceled the event for the first time in its fifty-year history.

The organizers cited concerns over being able to hold the event safely during the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. Upwards of 150,000 people attend the annual event and its surrounding festivities in southern California.

From the message on their website:

For the first time in its 50-year history San Diego Comic Convention (SDCC), the organizers behind the annual pop culture celebration, announced today with deep regret that there will be no Comic-Con in 2020. The event will instead return to the San Diego Convention Center from July 22-25, 2021.

Recognizing that countless attendees save and plan for its conventions each year, and how many exhibitors and stakeholders rely upon its events for a major portion of their livelihood, they had hoped to delay this decision in anticipation that COVID-19 concerns might lessen by summer. Continuous monitoring of health advisories and recent statements by the Governor of California have made it clear that it would not be safe to move forward with plans for this year.

“Extraordinary times require extraordinary measures and while we are saddened to take this action, we know it is the right decision,” said David Glanzer, spokesperson for the organization. “We eagerly look forward to the time when we can all meet again and share in the community we all love and enjoy.”

Organizers said that badgeholders can either request a refund or transfer their badges to Comic-Con 2021. The same will apply to exhibitors. Any hotel reservations made directly through Comic-Con will be automatically canceled and deposits refunded.