San Diego Comic-Con free to public as it goes virtual in July

(From left) Natalie Portman, Chris Hemsworth and Tessa Thompson speak at the Marvel Studios Panel during the 2019 Comic-Con International at San Diego Convention Center on July 20, 2019, in San Diego, California. Image: Kevin Winter/Getty Images/AFP

As San Diego Comic-Con (SDCC) goes virtual for the first time in its 50-year history, it will also be open to the public for free.

SDCC, one of the largest comic conventions in the world, canceled its annual event due to the coronavirus pandemic.

The digital conference, dubbed Comic-Con at Home, is set to take place from July 22 to 26, 2020. Capacity is unlimited, though there is no announcement yet on how to join the event online, Collider reported yesterday, June 10.

Panels have also yet to be announced—this year will stand out as one where attendees do not have to camp out in long queues to join one. The panels and presentations will cover comics, gaming, television and film.

For those who are excited for exclusives and limited-edition merchandise in Comic-Con, plans are being drawn up for an online Exhibit Hall. Cosplayers will also still have the Masquerade costume contest, while activities such as gaming are also being organized.

The official hashtag #ComicConAtHome is what attendees can use to join activities online.

“For the first time in our 50-year history, we are happy to welcome virtually anyone from around the globe,” SDCC spokesperson David Glanzer said. “Though stay-at-home conditions makes this a very difficult time, we see this as an opportunity to spread some joy and strengthen our sense of community.” Niña V. Guno /ra

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