San Diego Comic Fest returns this weekend

By John Freeman on April 19, 2022

San Diego Comic Fest 2022 — *Poster by Scott Shaw*

San Diego Comic Fest is back this coming long weekend, 21st – 24th April 2022, with a huge guest list that includes Mark Badger, Peter David, Mark Evanier, Larry Niven, Trina Robbins, Ben Templesmith, and many, many more.

The San Diego Comic Fest is described by organisers as “the friendly comic convention”, with a casual atmosphere and an intimate scale that allows fans to mingle directly with professionals and exhibitors. It’s the place where you can indulge your love of comics, science fiction, and films, and meet an outstanding array of professional creators without high-priced tickets, crowding, or long lines.

At the San Diego Comic Fest (not to be confused with San Diego Comic-Con, although its origin is bound into the more well known event), you’ll find an extensive and eclectic program with things for every fan to enjoy. As you would expect of a comic con, there will be panel discussions; guest programs; an artist alley; tabletop gaming; cosplay; steampunk; an exhibitor hall full of your favorite comics, books, toys, and collectibles; and much, much, more.

“All of this takes place in a relaxed setting that enables fans and professionals to hang out and enjoy good times talking about comics, science fiction, films, animation, and all the other things that fans love,” the organisers enthuse on the official web site.

San Diego Comic Fest 2022 Poster By Scott Shaw — *Poster By Scott Shaw*

Comic Fest’s origin was back in 1969, when Mike Towry was a teenage San Diego comics dealer, and part of the small group of fans who founded what became known as the San Diego Comic-Con.

After the celebration of the 40th Comic-Con in 2009, he and other Comic-Con veterans agreed that San Diego needed a second convention, one reminiscent of the early Comic-Cons. Thus, San Diego Comic Fest was born in 2012.

“As a convention produced by fans for fans, San Diego Comic Fest is sure to please,” say the team. “This all-volunteer comic con is a gathering of the tribe where each fan in attendance plays an important role in creating a memorable experience shared by all.”

The team hope that you will join them for a great, fun time!

• San Diego Comic Fest 21st – 24th April 2022 Four Points by Sheraton 8110 Aero Drive, San Diego, CA 92123 USA

• Full details here: www.sdcomicfest.org

San Diego Comic Fest is produced by the International Popular Arts and Comics Education League (iPACE League), a California non-profit corporation and 501(c)(3) organization. Click here for more information

Please note that the San Diego Comic Fest is not affiliated with Comic-Con International

John Freeman

The founder of downthetubes, which he established in 1998. John works as a comics and magazine editor, writer, and on promotional work for the Lakes International Comic Art Festival. He is currently editor of Star Trek Explorer, published by Titan – his third tour of duty on the title originally titled Star Trek Magazine.

Working in British comics publishing since the 1980s, his credits include editor of titles such as Doctor Who Magazine, Babylon 5 Magazine, and more. He also edited the comics anthology STRIP Magazine and edited several audio comics for ROK Comics. He has also edited several comic collections, including volumes of “Charley’s War” and “Dan Dare”.

He’s the writer of “Pilgrim: Secrets and Lies” for B7 Comics; “Crucible”, a creator-owned project with 2000AD artist Smuzz; and “Death Duty” and “Skow Dogs” with Dave Hailwood.