Geeks Unite - Comic Con is Coming to Downtown San Diego

The next international Comic Con is due to be held in Downtown San Diego's Convention Center in July. Attendee registration is  open and Comic Con is hugely popular, so don't wait too long before booking tickets. In fact, Comic Con is always sold out before it even begins.  Kids under 12 go free with a paying adult but do be sure to register as places are limited and no entry badges will be sold at the event. Registration is internet-only.

One of the biggest attractions at Comic Con is the celebrity guest list. This year dozens of artists and writers have already signed on, from Dick DeBartolo (a man with credits in no less than 406 MAD Magazines) to Joyce Farmer, one of the most important voices in the early feminist comic movement. The writer of the Fantastic Four series will be there and so will minds involved in the creation of Buffy the Vampire Slayer graphic novels, Spy vs. Spy, Batman and Robin, Real War Stories, and dozens of your favourite comics.

Both independents and major publishing labels are well represented so there's something for everyone. There are special guests from the Golden Age of comic books and the representatives of the new, alternative graphic novel style. Whether you're a diehard superhero fan or a dedicated reader of modern realist comics, you'll be amongst friends at Comic Con.

Aside from the chance to meet influential artists, writers, and colorists, get their autographs, and listen to what they have to say in talks and forums, San Diego Comic Con also involves a huge program of films, gaming tournaments, art shows, and chances to buy the very best in comic-related merchandise. T-shirts, mugs, Comic Con souvenirs, and of course, graphic novels of all kinds will be available to buy.

2011's convention will include the latest round of the Will Eisner Comic Industry Awards- the comic industry's premier award ceremony. You can vote online for your favourite one-shot, humor, new or ongoing series, and a whole lot more. Artists, colorists, and even letterers are eligible for Eisners. These days digital comics are included too, so the best online comics don't miss out on the recognition they deserve.

Downtown San Diego's Comic Con is always close to a huge range of quality accomodation to suit any budget, from backpackers' favorites to five-star hotels. On-site childcare will be available (advance booking required) and the venue will be fully equipped for families with small children and those with disabilities. Comic Con has a firm commitment to accessibility for anyone and everyone.

Another regular Comic Con feature is the Robert A Heinlein Blood Drive. After you've enjoyed a movie or two, browsed the artworks, and bagged a couple of bargains, you'll be able to make a donation to San Diego Blood Bank's precious reserves. Over the three decades, Comic Con has helped save more than 2000 lives.

The International Comic Con is the premier event in the every San Diego geek's calendar but there is a lot more to it than that- the Heinlein Blood Drive is just one of many surprises for first-time visitors. People come from across the USA and around the world to experience the best and most innovative comic and graphic novel convention there is.