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Comic-Con 2026 Toucan Tip of the Day

TOUCAN TIP #6: Badge Access + Perks: Ways to Make the Most of Comic-Con

Your Comic-Con® badge unlocks a whole world of experiences. Take a look at this year’s RFID information, complimentary collectible pin, and badge visibility guidelines before the fun begins.

K.Green © 2025 SDCC

The countdown to Comic-Con is on! Your badge does more than grant entry. It helps connect you to everything happening throughout the convention. Here’s how to make the most of it.

What Your Badge Gets You

Along with your Comic-Con badge you’ll also get a commemorative Toucan pin, souvenir show bag, Events Guide, and badge lanyard to round out your convention experience.

These complimentary items can be picked up in the Sails Pavilion throughout the convention, whether you want to make it your first stop of the day or swing by later once you’ve had time to explore the show.

If you already have your badge, take the Lobby G or E escalators upstairs and follow signs for Bags, Books & Lanyards Distribution for Badged Members in the Sails Pavilion on any day your badge is valid or during early pick-up on Tuesday.

If you are picking up your badge, take the Lobby C escalator upstairs to the Registration area in the Sails Pavilion.

If you were hoping to bring your kids with you, you’re in luck! Each adult attendee can register up to two children (ages 12 and under) for free when they arrive on-site. Check our Child Badge Policy for details.

Where Your Badge Gets You

Comic-Con keeps the experience equal for everyone by offering no VIP packages or premium badge options, meaning every attendee receives the same access.

Once you have your badge, an entire world opens up:

  • Programming: Panels ranging from major studio presentations to intimate creator Q&As happen throughout the convention center and nearby venues.
  • Exhibit Hall: Nearly half a million square feet of exhibitor space featuring exclusive merchandise, limited-edition swag, celebrity signings, and special events.
  • Evening Events: From Thursday to Saturday, programming continues into the night, including off-site events at locations like the Marriott Marquis and Hilton Bayfront.
  • Outdoor Activities: Immersive experiences outside the convention center on the Comic-Con Campus that you won’t want to miss.
  • Special Events:

Badge Basics & RFID Access

Your badge includes RFID technology which is how we keep things secure and flowing smoothly.

Tap In & Out:

Always tap your badge at the RFID gates when entering and exiting areas like the convention center entryways and Exhibit Hall.

If your badge scans red:

Visit any RFID Help desk located in Lobbies A, D, or G, or see staff at Badge Solutions upstairs in the Sails Pavilion.

IMPORTANT: Your badge must always be worn and clearly visible. A valid badge includes both your paper badge and the plastic holder with the attached RFID sticker. Missing components will render your badge invalid.

decorations

You may personalize your badge with small pins or charms, but do not cover the artwork or any important information. If a security guard deems your badge is being obscured, they may ask you to visit Badge Solutions for a resolution before you can head back into the convention. If your decorations are not removable, your badge may need to be replaced (fees may apply). See our Terms and Conditions for more information.

Bookmark Toucan for the latest Toucan Tips as we head towards Comic-Con 2026, July 23–26 at the San Diego Convention Center. 

Even more is headed your way, so follow Comic-Con on Instagram, Facebook, and X to keep an eye on upcoming announcements and insider tips as the show gets closer.