With deep regret, the organizers of the San Diego Comic-Con have announced that the world’s largest comic book convention has been canceled due to COVID-19. While the 2020 show won’t be happening, it’ll return next year on July 22-25, 2021. WonderCon Anaheim (April 10-12, 2020) has also been canceled, but it’ll be back on March 26-28, 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,” wrote SDCC’s organizers. “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.”
Individuals who have already bought passes have two options: getting a full refund, or converting their badges to a Comic-Con 2021 one. Exhibitors may also do the same, the instructions of which will be sent via email next week.
“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.”
Despite its name, the San Diego Comic-Con has been less about comic books and more about movies as of late, with big-name studios using the show as a platform for film announcements, trailers, and exclusive footage. Whatever was planned will presumably just be uploaded to YouTube and social media this year without delay.