Comic-Con is the ultimate celebration of comics and pop culture. It covers everything from movies and TV to gaming and interactive media. Fans can expect an explosion of cosplay, one-of-a-kind panels, exclusive sneak peeks, and massive exhibit halls packed with merch and displays for every fandom. The event runs July 24–27 at the San Diego Convention Center. However, you don’t need to attend the actual event to have fun – here are our favorite free things to do at Comic-Con this weekend.
1. Paramount+’s The Lodge
Paramount+’s The Lodge is back in San Diego, after popping up all across the country. This cozy retreat is returning to Happy Does (340 Fifth Ave) to show off the mountain of entertainment available on Paramount+. Enjoy themed cocktails, props, immersive sets, photo ops, artwork, merch, and more. Find this pop-out between July 23 to July 27 – more about it here.
2. Hulu’s King of the Hill
King of the Hill is making a heartfelt return with a massive outdoor activation hosted by Hulu. You can step into Hank Hill’s Backyard – an immersive recreation of Arlen, Texas – just outside the Convention Center. There’ll be a BBQ cookout, iconic landmarks from the show, you can customize a trucker hat and much more. The experience celebrates the upcoming revival of the beloved series, premiering August 4. With much of the original cast returning, the revival includes a time jump and updated intro, while also honoring the late Johnny Hardwick and Jonathan Joss.
3. Her Universe Fashion Show
Our list of free things to do at Comic-Con continues with a glam event! The Her Universe Fashion Show returns to San Diego Comic-Con 2025, celebrating its 11th annual geek couture event. This will be its biggest show yet! The event will embrace a theme of “Defying Fashion: Fashion That Defies Expectations,” inspired by the beloved Wicked films. 25 designers from around the country show off their looks in this runway show presented by Universal. Free wristbands are available from 10 AM – first-come, first-served! The show starts at 6 PM on July 24.
4. Abbott Elementary’s Block Party
Summer break? Think again! Grab your backpack and head to the best Block Party around here – an Abbott Elementary one! After a hit debut last year, Abbott Elementary is returning to Comic-Con with an exciting outdoor experience. A Very Abbott Block Party just outside the Convention Center, invites you to enjoy games, rides, prizes, and classic Philly treats. Highlights include a Ferris wheel with waterfront views, collectible character pins, giveaways from the show’s Lost and Found, and more.
6. Anime FanFest Music Festival
A cannot miss on the list of free things to do at Comic-Con: Crunchyroll is bringing anime vibes and live music to San Diego. Anime FanFest, a free two-day festival, comes to The Rady Shell on July 25 and 26. It’s open to everyone, so no badge required. The event features performances by SPYAIR, yama, Denzel Curry, INIKO, and more. You’ll also fund anime-themed pop-ups, giveaways, and interactive activations.
7. Interactive Zone at Petco Park
The Comic-Con Interactive Zone at Petco Park is back! It offers free, family-friendly fun for all. Located in the Lexus Premier Lot across from Petco Park, the zone features food trucks and exciting activations, including game demos from Arc System Works, a Magic: The Gathering x Avatar experience with photo ops and giveaways. Our favorite part? The Hello Kitty Cafe Truck! No badge needed, just show up and enjoy.
8. Doctor Who Pop-Up Experience
Step into the Doctor Who universe at San Diego Comic-Con 2025 ! This immersive pop-up experience runs between July 24–27, in the Gaslamp District. Explore UNIT’s top-secret Black Archive, featuring props and alien artifacts from the show’s 60-year history. You can snap photos inside the Fifteenth Doctor’s TARDIS, browse exclusive merch, and take part in a live mission. A digital version of the Black Archive will also be available online for fans worldwide.