Genre fans of every ilk make the pilgrimage down to San Diego for fandom's ultimate party: San Diego Comic-Con. The 4-day event celebrates comic books, movies, TV, video games, anime, action figures, and cosplay.

Fans get to rub shoulders with stars and creators, in intimate panel discussions and presentations in giant halls, on the packed exhibit floor and in autograph sessions. Many come dressed in costume; many more take pictures of the Storm Troopers, Avengers, Star Trek cadets, and Madrigal families in their midst.

Comic-Con is now sold out. Luckily, much of the fun happens outside the convention center.  While equally crowded, most of these events are free and do not require Comic-Con Badges, though some may have age limits. Info on outside events can be found on the SDCC Unofficial Blog .

All event and program rooms have limited capacity as set by the Fire Marshal. Even though a badge is needed to get into all events, it does not guarantee access to any event if it has reached its capacity.  Rooms are not cleared between events. Most autograph signings are of a limited nature. A badge does not guarantee autographs at any event.