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Programming at Comic-Con 2009

With more than 400 events over all four days, Comic-Con's program slate is the largest in the nation. Programs include major comics publisher presentations, "Spotlight" panels featuring all the special guests, and the greatest number of events geared toward the entire spectrum of comics of any convention. Hall H features major movie studio programs, and TV networks give presentations that showcase favorite and new shows. (Comic-Con has a tradition of premiering network shows months before they first air, with past examples including Lost, Heroes, Chuck, Pushing Daisies, Reaper, and many more.)

As of press time, the Programming Department is talking to comics publishers, major Hollywood movie studios and television networks, anime/manga, and action figure and gaming companies to offer the most comprehensive—and mind- blowing!—roster of events at any pop culture show. The Comics Arts Conference will return for four big days of academic study of the wonderful world of comics. And remember—at Comic-Con, that world includes all aspects of comics: superhero comics from the Golden Age to the Silver Age to now, independent and alternative titles, graphic novels of all types, manga, European comics, webcomics, editorial cartoons, comic strips, and more!

In addition, the Programming schedule will feature panels and events devoted to some of this year's special themes. And Comic-Con keeps on rockin' after the Exhibit Hall closes at 7:00 each evening! Programming, anime, gaming, film screenings, and other events continue well into the night, with several big events planned for the weekend. On Thursday night, it's the return of the Star Wars Fan Film Awards; on Friday night, it's the comic book industry's version of the Oscars: the Will Eisner Comic Industry Awards; and on Saturday night, it's the gala Comic-Con Masquerade.

The complete Programming schedule will be posted here about ten days to two weeks prior to the show. It's a good idea to print that schedule in advance out so you can highlight your "must-see" panels and events. The complete schedule will also be provided in the onsite Events Guide and will be updated daily on signs outside of all the Programming rooms.