Age of The Nerd
It’s that time of year again, and Comic-Con 2018 is a week away from descending on San Diego. Throughout the years, San Diego Comic-Con has grown from a somewhat small gathering of geeks to one of the biggest pop culture events. One of my favorite things about attending San Diego Comic-Con is being able to experience the off-site events & activations (or “installations”, depending on who you talk to.) that pop up every year. Comic-Con 2018 is no exception and just like every year, there seems to more than one could possibly do in one weekend.
Aside from the variety of panels and events that will be hosted for badge holders inside the convention center, downtown San Diego will be invaded by a series of activations, off-site events and after-hours parties. With all of the madness happening throughout weekend of San Diego Comic-Con 2018, it’s tough to keep up with all of these events that are happening in the famous Gaslamp district and beyond.
Luckily, we’ve taken it upon ourselves to collate all of the off site events that are happening at this year’s convention so that you can make your planning for San Diego Comic-Con 2018 that much easier. Culled from resources all around the web such as THR, The Official SDCC blog and our own press releases, this handy guide to activations, off-sites & parties for the weekend has everything in one place!
Make sure to check back as AOTN updates this list when more events are announced!
San Diego Comic-Con 2018 Activations:
AMC’s DEADQUARTERS
Don’t miss AMC’s DEADQUARTERS, the official fan zone of The Walking Dead and Fear The Walking Dead at Comic-Con International. It’s an immersive fan experience that allows fans to step right into the universe of The Walking Dead. Featuring a curated walk through of The Sanctuary and a thrilling 22-foot slide that sends you sliding into a pit of walkers. Fans will get an up-close look at real props from the show and awesome photo experiences including the Walker Composter and Negan’s “Flaming Lucille.” The space will also host a number of fan experiences. DEADQUARTERS is located directly across from the Convention Center (just off 4th Ave.) and open daily Thursday to Sunday.
Where: Martin Luther King Promenade, in front of the Hilton Gaslamp Hotel (4th Ave. and L St.)
When: Thursday to Saturday: 11:00 AM–6:00 PM • Sunday: 10:00 AM–4:00 PM
Welcome to Castle Rock, a new Hulu Original
Welcome to Castle Rock, a nice place to live and grow. Visit us at the intersection of Front St. and Island Ave. and experience a unique look into our quaint, and sometimes terrifying, town. Castle Rock is an upcoming psychological-horror anthology series based on the world of Stephen King, intertwining characters and themes from the fictional town of Castle Rock, Maine. It will premiere on Wednesday, July 25 only on Hulu. Guests who choose to take a risk and visit Castle Rock will tour the town’s Bed & Breakfast and explore its vast Forest, where they will find thrilling surprises around every corner. As they journey through the multi-room Bed & Breakfast, guests will question what is real, wonder who they are within this world, and begin to understand just why Castle Rock is called the unluckiest town on earth. After visiting the Castle Rock B&B, guests may continue their visit in the Castle Rock Forest across the street and discover additional chilling moments of wonder. Within the Forest there will be a Hulu campsite lounge that will serve as a refuge from the chaos of Comic-Con, as well as a place to hang out, relax, recharge, and get a sneak peek of the show itself! The Castle Rock experience will also live on a fully-integrated digital platform and create many shareable moments. A must-see event for those who crave a fully dimensional immersive experience.
Where: SW Corner of Front St. and Island Ave. across from the New Children’s Museum
When: Thursday: 11:00 AM–6:00 PM • Friday and Saturday: 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM, Sunday… 11:00 AM to 4:00 PM
The Her Universe Fashion Show
Presented by Her Universe, Hot Topic and Loungefly in partnership with Cartoon Network. The 5th annual Her Universe Fashion Show will showcase 24 designers who will compete, with their original “geek couture” designs, for the chance to win the ultimate prize: an opportunity to design a Her Universe fashion collection for Hot Topic. Hosted by actress and Her Universe founder Ashley Eckstein. Her Universe will once again bring the glamour of Fashion Week to San Diego Comic-Con in this must-see event and Thursday night favorite!
Where: Harbor Ballroom, Manchester Grand Hyatt
When: Thursday, 6:00 PM–8:00 PM
Future Tech Live!
What was once the VR Lounge has expanded in its third year to celebrate the boldest and coolest in the exploding areas of Virtual Reality (VR), Augmented Reality (AR), Mediated Reality (MR), Artificial Intelligence (AI), Robotics, Internet of Things (IOT), Blockchain/Cryptocurrency, Sustainable and Emerging Tech. This year Future Tech Live! will spotlight the emergence of AR with an awesome “Overwatch” activation from Blizzard (who will be giving away Limited Edition Pins); Deadpool 2 will be offering its unique take on AR. Virtual Reality will be well represented: Warner Bros. is filling the Gallery space across the street from the Omni with a tremendous Ready Player One activation, Skydance is showing off its latest, Archangel, with multi-player Mech battles (and mini-tournaments), “Apex” from Starbreeze, along with The Walking Dead gaming experience, NBC/Universal showcases its Jurassic WorldVR. We will have robots and the AI Innovation Fair, courtesy of Ozobot, and the inaugural Comic-Con Hackathon (co-produced by Fanhacks) happening all day Thursday, featuring challenges in AR, VR, blockchain presented by ConsenSys, and a special Comic-Con challenge. Win prizes and innovate at the same time! If that isn’t enough, we have a Space Zone, featuring Fulldome 360, the Arthur C. Clarke Center, “Space Odyssey.” This year we celebrate the “We Are” initiative and Diversity in Tech and Gaming with a Living Gallery presented by the ESA Foundation, a place you can enjoy fireside chats with innovators and recharge yourself and your devices. Enjoy the selection of eight panelsin the main convention hall: “To Infinity and Beyond,” “Hollywood & Emerging Tech,” “How to Game as a Pro,” “The Science of Cool,” “Going Crypto-,“ “The Gaming Marketplace,” “Enter the Fun Zone” (LBE & Esports), and “Diversity in Tech and Gaming.” Lots of innovation and exciting surprises await at Future Tech Live!
Where: The Omni Hotel Ballroom and Gallery, 675 L St.
When: Wednesday: Developer’s Night and Preview, 6:00–9:00 PM • Thursday to Saturday: 9:00 AM–7:00 PM • Sunday, 9:00 AM–5:00 PM
The Ready Player One Experience
Enter the virtual world of Ready Player One and experience the nostalgia of the ‘80s in this interactive walkthrough activation. Test your knowledge of the film and 1980s trivia in two challenge rooms and explore the depths of The OASIS, including the haunted room 237 from The Shining. Open to Comic-Con badge holders only.
Where: The Gallery at The Omni Hotel, 675 L St.
When: Thursday to Saturday: 10:00 AM–7:00 PM • Sunday: 10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Rampage
Take a picture with George, the larger-than-life star of the hit film Rampage. Witness his trail of destruction and bring him to life with the on-site augmented reality experience.
Where: Promenade behind the Omni Hotel, 675 L St.
When: Thursday to Saturday: 10:00 AM–7:00 PM • Sunday: 10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Dragon Ball North America Tour 2018
Dragon Ball blasts into San Diego Comic-Con in an event of epic proportions! Experience all-things Dragon Ball inside a replica of the “World Martial Arts Tournament” complete with life-size statues and selfie spots. See the latest collectible products from Tamashii Nations and S. H. Figuarts, try your hand at the Dragon Ball Super Card Game or demo the Dragon Ball FighterZ video game and Dragon Ball Legends smartphone game app. Don’t miss the daily promotional giveaways including commemorative lanyards and bags.
Where: Marriott Marquis Marina Terrace
When: Starts at 5:00 PM on Preview Night • Thursday to Sunday Hours TBD
Jack Ryan Training Field
Activate your field clearance at Comic-Con and discover what it takes to be a field operative. At The Tom Clancy Jack Ryan Experience, based on Prime Video’s upcoming original series, Tom Clancy’s Jack Ryan (releasing 8/31/18), you’ll be mentally and physically challenged like never before. Prepare to infiltrate, fight, evade and escape as you step into Jack Ryan’s shoes. Only the most clever and canny will succeed. Do you have what it takes to be a hero?
Where: MLK Promenade and First Ave.
When: Thursday to Saturday: 9:00 AM–7:00 PM • Sunday: 9:00 AM–5:00 PM
Comic–Con Pinball Lounge
Located in the Pacific Ballroom of the Marriott Marquis is the Pinball Lounge, loaded with a variety of fun and challenging machines, all free to play courtesy of Stern Pinball. After getting some practice rounds in, try your luck against fellow players in one of the daily tournaments.
Where: Marriott Marquis, Pacific Ballroom 14-16
When: FREE PLAY: Thursday to Saturday: 10:00 AM–7:00 PM • Sunday: 10:00 AM–2:00 PM
TOURNAMENTS: Thursday to Saturday: 7:00–9:00 PM • Sunday: 2:00–4:00 PM
Taking center stage once again on the lawn of the Hilton San Diego Bayfront Hotel, FXHIBITION 2018 will bring the networks’ most beloved shows to life through an interactive combination of art and technology. The space will feature innovative installations from hit shows Legion, American Horror Story, Mayans M.C., It’s Always Sunny in Philadelphia, and Archer.
Where: Hilton San Diego Bayfront Lawn
When: Thursday: 12:00–6:00 PM • Friday and Saturday: 10:00 AM–6:00 PM • Sunday: 10:00 AM–TBD
FOX FANFARE 2018 at San Diego Comic-Con
This year at San Diego Comic-Con, FOX is going BIG and bringing a number of unique activations featuring the network’s biggest new and returning series to the Hilton Bayfront Lawn space and more! Be sure to swing by and check out Comic-Con exclusive experiences for the whole family! Adventure to other galaxies with Cosmos: Possible Worlds; discover the secretive Project NOAH from the all-new drama The Passage; see members of the Planetary Union crew from The Orville; unlock your Mutant vision with a special premium item from The Gifted; and celebrate milestones for all of FOX’s animated series. Stay tuned for more information and visit fox.com for the latest updates and series information!
Where: Hilton San Diego Bayfront Lawn
When: Thursday: 12:00–6:00 PM • Friday and Saturday: 10:00 AM–6:00 PM • Sunday: 10:00 AM–TBD
Adult Swim State Park at SDCC 2018
Adult Swim is back on the Green. We’re building our own State Park and exposing you to all the nature you came to Comic-Con to avoid. Complete with archery, canoes, new swag, live streams and a very large hot dog masquerading as a mechanical bull.
Where: Convention Way & 5th Ave Pier, Behind the Convention Center
When: Thursday to Saturday: 4:00 PM–2:00 AM • Sunday: 4:00 PM–8:00 PM (Select attractions open at 8:00 AM • Games will close at 8:00 PM)
Cloak and Dagger Activation
Freeform and Marvel bring “The Experience” to Petco Park with two different interactive events. Features a re-created moment between characters Tyrone and Tandy when their powers interact in which a bungee will propel fans backwards and a slow-motion recording will capture the moment.
Where: Petco Park
When: Thursday to Sunday starting at 10 a.m. daily.
‘Project Blue Book’ Headquarters
HISTORY will be giving visitors a look into the new series, and also offer an immersive experience that takes you inside real UFO cases and an attempt to make contact with life beyond Earth from San Diego. An exclusive comic book for Project Blue Book, written by George Mann and with artwork by Mann House, will be given out to fans at both the Headquarters at the HISTORY booth.
Where: Petco Parking Lot
When: Thursday to Sunday
‘The Good Place’ Activation
NBC will host an immerse fan experience at the Gaslamp Square in front of the Hard Rock and Omni hotels, and this year the network is creating a replica of The Good Place’s neighborhood, where fans can become part of the show’s iconic scenes and participate in exclusive photo and video opportunities. Fans looking to recharge during the con can also visit NBC’s Manifest lounge, open from Thursday, July 19 to Sunday, July 22 at the Hard Rock Hotel, which will feature an oxygen bar, charging station and opportunities to preview the new fall drama, which stars Melissa Roxburgh and Josh Dallas.
Where: Gaslamp Square (in front of Hard Rock and Omni hotels)
When: Thursday to Sunday
Fans will have the opportunity to immerse themselves in the DC Universe for the first time and literally walk through the originals, classics and comics soon to be available through the digital service. a larger-than-life installation of epic proportions will welcome fans into interactive spaces that bring iconic characters and stories to life. You can register now at DCUniverseExperience.com, although signing up online in advance allows guests to streamline the onsite admission process.
Where: Hilton San Diego Gaslamp Quarter, directly across the street from the San Diego Convention Center
When: July 19 9:30AM-7PM (line closes at 6PM)
San Diego Comic-Con 2018 Off-Site Events:
‘South Park’– Cartman’s Escape Room
Cartman’s Escape Room is making its worldwide debut at Comic-Con. Trapped! Caught in another one of Cartman’s schemes, fans will now enter the most impossible to escape place ever invented. Ten South Park fans will have a limited amount of time solve a series of puzzles using what they know about South Park to free themselves… before it’s too late. This new activation is free and open to the public
Where: San Diego Wine Center (200 Harbor Dr. #12, across from the Convention Center)
When: Thursday to Saturday, 9:30 a.m.- 7:00 p.m. • Sunday, 9:30 a.m. – 5:00 p.m.
LAIKA LIVE Exhibit
LAIKA, creators of Coraline, ParaNorman, The Boxtrolls and Kubo and the Two Strings, returns to the heart of San Diego’s historic Gaslamp Quarter with an all new, bigger-than-ever LAIKA LIVE exhibit from Friday, July 13 – Sunday, July 22, 2018 coinciding with the city’s PRIDE and Comic-Con festivities. Highlights include fan art, technology demonstrations, drawings for a pair of coveted Coraline Dunks from Nike, social media activations, LAIKA merchandise offered for sale (including brand new items and limited edition Coraline items), multiple giveaways, and more. LAIKA President & CEO Travis Knight will lead a Facebook Live tour of the exhibit and do an autograph signing with a soon-to-be-announced special guest on Saturday, July 21.
Where: 350 Fifth Avenue (between J & K Streets)
When: Friday, July 13 to Sunday, July 22, 2018
Universal Studios Monsters “Boodega”
Swing by 701 8th Ave. for “gross-eries” or “hot coffin” at Universal Studios’ “Boodega” marketplace for some exciting exclusives created just for the shop.
Where: Super7 (701 8th Ave.)
When: Thursday to Sunday
‘Demolition Man’ 25th Anniversary Taco Bell
To celebrate the 25th anniversary of the film “Demolition Man,” WB is hosting a pop-up Taco Bell modeled after the film’s version of the fast-food stop. In the movie, Taco Bell was the only restaurant to survive the “franchise wars.” Expect nacho fries and exclusive finds.
Where: 658 Fifth Ave.
When: Thursday to Sunday
‘Buffy the Vampire Slayer’ Scavenger Hunt
Fans of “Buffy the Vampire Slayer” can become actual slayers during a special scavenger hunt at SDCC. Sign up before starting on June 27 at Shop.Fox.com, and get ready to locate “vampire nests” across the Gaslamp for cool prizes like Funko figures, pins, t-shirts, and more.
Where: Gaslamp District
When: Saturday
Mr. Mercedes Immersive Experience
Be the first to play the VR escape room game Mr. Mercedes: Lair Escape on the HTC Vive Pro, the next generation of VR headsets. Play Mr. Mercedes: Finders Keepers, the augmented reality adventure game to collect clues to unlock never-before-seen content and special prizes. Pre-registration details: att.com/MrMercedesSDCC.
Where: 643 G St.
When: Thursday to Saturday, 10 a.m.-6 p.m.
The Purge‘s Purge City store
The immersive experience transports shoppers into the world of USA Network’s The Purge with a tongue-in-cheek, one-stop shop for the perfect Purge Night, where “Purge City” staff will help visitors stock up on emergency candles, masks and energy drinks. Shoppers can also take part in product demos, photo ops and get a glimpse of the TV series based on the Jason Blum feature of the same name. Free.
Where: 215 Tony Gwynn Drive
When: Thursday to Saturday, 11 a.m.-7 p.m. • Sunday from 11 a.m.-4 p.m.
We’re celebrating all things Nerdist, Geek & Sundry, and Alpha with live editions of shows such as Nerdist News, Because Science, and Talkin’ Toons. And you never know who you’ll see at Nerdist House, because all kinds of special guests are stopping by. We’ll have meet and greets with our incredible talent, authors V.E. Schwab, R.A. Salvatore, and Cory Doctorow, Talkin’ Toons host Rob Paulsen with special guests Maurice LaMarche and Randy Rogel, and Bootleg Universe‘s Adi Shankar among others. Open to the Public; No badge required.
Where: Sparks Gallery at 530 Sixth Avenue.
When: All weekend
Amazon Fire TV “Fast Forward to the Future”
In Fire TV’s San Diego Comic Con debut, this Amazon off-site will be up and running all weekend long, giving fans a chance to relax and reboot from the crazy convention floor. “Fast Forward to the Future” will take guests on a journey through the evolution of television, showcasing how Fire TV now makes it easier than ever before to watch all of your favorite TV shows and movies, control smart home devices, use Alexa skills, listen to music, and more. The activation includes vignettes like the Device Garden, a Backyard Cinema Club, Fire TV Street, and the Stress-Free Streaming zone! The silent streaming party will bring the Fire TV experience to life with immersive lounges inspired by hit shows from partners including Prime Video’s “Tom Clancy’s Jack Ryan,” HBO’s “Game of Thrones,” and NBC’s “The Good Place.” In addition, you can recharge with readily available mobile chargers and a tempting selection of show-themed mocktails to sip on.
Where: Located on the corner of 7th Ave and Market street.
When: Thursday to Sunday, starting at 9am.
SyFy “It’s A Fan Thing”
The multi-platform program will celebrate, nurture and support the makers, artists and creators at the heart of genre fandom. Beginning with an online HUB dedicated to showcasing the latest and greatest in fan creations, the Syfy WIRE Fan Creators initiative will prove “It’s a Fan (Made) Thing” with year-round contests, partnerships and recognition for the best in class when it comes to being a participating fan. Syfy will also be hosting The SYFY karaoke bus and genre-themed bingo trolleys that will be roaming the Gaslamp all weekend!
RSVP is mandatory for attendance for any of the fan parties, which can be done HERE.
Where: Children’s Museum
When: Friday and Saturday night, 9pm to 11pm.
‘STAR TREK: DISCOVERY‘ MIRROR UNIVERSE GALLERY TAKEOVER & PEDICABS
CBS is creating a fully immersive STAR TREK: DISCOVERY Mirror Universe experience at the exhibit, which will feature a photo opportunity with Emperor Georgiou’s throne and will showcase props and costumes from the series’ Terran Empire. The gallery will also house an official “Star Trek” shop with Comic-Con exclusives. CBS will also offer free “intergalactic” rides throughout San Diego’s Gaslamp District in pedicabs inspired by the design of the U.S.S.Discovery’s captain’s chair. The pedicabs will feature the chair’s distinctive stitched black seats as well as video monitors built into its armrests, which in this case will screen trailers for the highly anticipated second season of the show. As an added touch, each vehicle will display an illuminated U.S.S. Discovery delta shield on the back.
Where: Michael J. Wolf Fine Arts Gallery (363 Fifth Avenue, San Diego);
When: Thursday to Sunday, 11am-9pm
On Thursday, July 19, CBS will cruise the streets of Comic-Con in a branded Ferrari 488 to promote the return of MAGNUM P.I. Brand ambassadors will distribute red sunglasses and Hawaiian leis.
Where: Various locations throughout the gaslamp
When: Thursday
Legendary Television, in partnership with Legendary Digital Network’sNerdist, will present “Robo Romance,” afree-to-fans interactive photo installation with ROBOT—who, following season one, found itself at the center of a collective internet crush by series viewers. Located at the Nerdist House at Sparks Gallery, participants can customize the setting of their photo meet up with “Robot,” including a special romantic background for enamored fans. Free “Lost in Space” giveaways will also be offered daily.
When: Thursday to Sunday 10am-6Pm
San Diego Comic-Con 2018 Parties:
WEDNESDAY, JULY 18 (PREVIEW NIGHT)
• 2 Blog 2 Furious, the San Diego Comic-Con Unofficial Blog’s annual party. 6-9 p.m., McFadden’s Pub, 731 Fifth Ave. Free and open to all.
• Rotten Tomatoes Press Mixer. 7-10 p.m., Bar 207 at the Hard Rock Hotel, 207 Fifth Ave. Invitation only, RSVP required.
THURSDAY, JULY 19
• Wired Cafe. The annual industry and party lounge returns to San Diego. Thursday, Friday and Saturday, 11 a.m.-6 p.m. daily. Free.
• Fandom party. Sponsored by Fox’s The Gifted. Food, themed drinks, games and music from DJ Mark Ronson. 7-11 p.m., Float at the Hard Rock, 207 Fifth Ave. Invitation only, RSVP required.
• After-Con party featuring DJ Kristian Narin (Game of Thrones). Doors at 9 p.m., 21 and over. Open to the public, RSVP required. Omnia, 454 Sixth Ave.
• Alpha Book Club Happy Hour. 7-8 p.m., Sparks Gallery, 530 Sixth Ave.
• Alpha After Dark Party with The Kraken Rum. 9-1 a.m., Fluxx, 500 Fourth Ave.
FRIDAY, JULY 20
• BuzzFeed and The CW present Spells and Spirits. 5-8 p.m., Altitude Sky Lounge, 7036, 660 K St. Invitation only, RSVP required.
• Warner Bros. TV cocktail media mixer. 7-9 p.m., Float Rooftop Bar at the Hard Rock, 207 Fifth Ave. Invitation only, RSVP required.
• IMDboat Party. Sponsored by Atom Tickets. Kevin Smith hosts the executive-heavy, invitation-only party. Fifth Avenue landing, behind the Convention Center. 7:30-10:30 p.m. RSVP required.
• IGN party. Sponsored by Amazon Studios’ Jack Ryan. 8 p.m., Andaz Rooftop, 600 F St. Invitation only, RSVP required.
• National Geographic’s Nerd Night celebrating the season two premiere of Mars. 8-11 p.m., Hotel Solamar, 465 Sixth Ave. Invitation only, RSVP required.
• Syfy fan party: Fan Creators/It’s a Fan (Made) Thing. Free and open to all. 9 p.m.-1 a.m., The New Children’s Museum, 200 W. Island Ave.
• Legendary Television’s “Robo Rhythm” an invite-only intergalactic dance party at the Oxford Social Club. Friday, July 20 from 10:00pm – 1:00am. (Private, Invite Only)
SATURDAY, JULY 21
• TruTV’s Impractical Jokers block party. Third annual event will feature the Tenderloins overseeing a day of special appearances, a zipline 3D photo experience, White Castle food truck, DJ and more. 1-9 p.m., the Park at Petco Park. Open to the public, first-come, first-served.
• Bill Prady’s annual League of Extraordinary Nerds party. 3-7 p.m., Pool Club at the Hilton San Diego Bayfront Hotel. RSVP required.
• Bizarre States 200th Episode Party hosted by Jessica Chobot and Andrew Bowser. 8-12 a.m., Sparks Gallery, 530 Sixth Ave.
• NBC party. Time, attendees being kept under wraps. Gaslamp Square. Invitation only.
• 20th Century Fox TV, FX and Fox cocktail reception. 7 p.m., Craft + Commerce, 675 Beech St. Invitation only, RSVP required.
• Entertainment Weekly‘s annual star-studded closing night celebration. 9 p.m., Float at the Hard Rock Hotel, 207 Fifth Ave. Invitation only, RSVP required.
