San Diego Comic-Con, the world-renowned convention celebrating comics and related popular arts, is set to take place from Thursday, July 25 to Sunday, July 28, 2024, with a Preview Night on Wednesday, July 24. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the process to obtain entry badges, ensuring that enthusiasts can navigate the system efficiently.
Understanding the Badge System
What Are Comic-Con Badges?
Comic-Con badges are essential for entry to any of the event's activities. They are physical badges, personalized with the attendee's name, and must be worn at all times during the convention. Comic-Con does not use a ticket system; instead, badges are the primary mode of entry.
Types of Badges and Pricing
Different types of badges are available, including single-day and multi-day options. Prices for adults in 2024 are as follows:
- Wednesday Preview Night: $59
- Thursday, Friday, Saturday: $79 each day
- Sunday: $54
- A 4-Day badge is available if all daily badges from Thursday to Sunday are purchased. Children aged 12 and under are free with a paying adult, while reduced prices are available for juniors (ages 13-17), active-duty military, and seniors over 60.
Registration and Purchase Process
Comic-Con Member ID Requirement
To buy a badge or register for Comic-Con, an individual must first create a Comic-Con Member ID. This ID acts like a username, necessary for all badge sales and registrations. Once registered, participants can partake in badge sales events.
Badge Sales Events
There are two main badge sales events:
- Returning Registration: Available to those who attended the previous year's Comic-Con.
- Open Registration: Open to the general public. For Comic-Con 2024, this is scheduled for November 18, 2023.
Participation in Badge Sales
Eligibility for each sale varies, and being part of the virtual waiting room during sales does not guarantee a badge purchase due to limited availability.
Additional Considerations
Refunds and Transfers
Badges for Comic-Con are non-transferable. Refunds are available under certain conditions, with a specific deadline for refund requests.
Badge Shipping
Badges are usually shipped to attendees, professionals, and press who register or purchase before the shipping deadline. Attendees need to keep their shipping address updated in their Member ID account.
Purchasing for Others
If you are selected for a registration session, you can buy badges for up to three people, provided they all have their own valid Member IDs and are eligible for the sale you are participating in.
Children at Comic-Con
Children aged 12 and under can attend for free with a paying adult. They do not need to register for a Member ID, but junior attendees (ages 13-17) do.
Security and Capacity Limitations
All event and program rooms have limited capacities, and a Comic-Con badge does not guarantee access to every event or autograph signing.
Avoiding Unauthorized Purchases
Attendees should avoid buying badges from third-party sources, as these will be invalid and cannot be used for entry.