Here’s why the Comic-Con Special Edition holiday-weekend celebration has pop-culture fans giving big thanks.
1. The Masquerade
Get ready to celebrate “costuming in the popular arts and the spirit of creativity of our attendees” (as Comic-Con organizers have it) with one of the splashiest events of Comic-Con Special Edition: the Masquerade Costume Competition at 8 p.m. Saturday night. It’s not actually a ball or dance but a series of costume presentations by attendees, complete with a panel of guest judges, a slate of prestigious awards and even cash prizes. There’s no additional charge to participate or attend – all you need is your conference badge.
> Snag one of the few Comic Con Special Edition badges left
2. Coming together as a Community
Organizers said it best: “Our decision to hold an in-person event in 2021 was driven by several factors. Our primary hope was to finally be able to gather in person as a community, something we have not been able to do since 2019. Another was to try to determine how best to safely produce events in light of current health concerns with the least negative impact on attendees.” They also stressed that “this convention is meant to be a more intimate gathering while still evoking the fun community feeling our conventions are known for, including great exhibits, programs, cosplay, gaming, and other events, but also addressing the desire from fans to have an in-person show. If that weren’t enough, while your friends may be out battling the crowds on Black Friday, you can enjoy your very own Fannish Friday Shopping at Special Edition.” More on that below!
3. The Comic-Con Museum debuts!
Be among the first to view the pop-culture treasures of the Comic-Con Museum. The long-awaited grand opening in Balboa Park’s Federal Building takes place Friday, Nov. 26. The museum will showcase exciting new exhibits all weekend. As a bonus, Comic-Con Special Edition attendees can ride the complimentary shuttle service between the Convention Center and the museum. Separate admission required.
> Visit the museum website for more details
4. Holiday Shopping at the Con
Comic-Con is merch nirvana! It’s a perfect place to get all your holiday gift-shopping done for family and friends — particularly those who weren’t lucky enough to join you for the Special Edition. The exhibit hall will be loaded with one-of-a-kind items to purchase, and Comic-Con Special Edition also is offering a lineup of Special Edition-branded items, from patches to hoodies to logo holiday stockings.
5. Safety is a Superpower
Of course, none of the fun matters if the community doesn’t feel safe to attend. Comic-Con Special Edition has implemented safety protocols to produce a safe event for everyone. Safety protocols including mask requirements, limited attendance and verification of full COVID-19 vaccination status or proof of a negative COVID-19 test. View the full safety guidelines on the Special Edition homepage.