It’s a bird! It’s a plane! It’s…the 2024 Corpus Christi Comic Con! Whether you’re a die-hard comic book fan, a pop culture enthusiast or just looking for some family fun, Corpus Christi Comic Con is ready to wow guests this weekend. Held at the American Bank Center from July 26-28, this year’s event promises an exhilarating, dare we say, out-of-this-world, adventure.
Local comic book lover Daniel Benavides set out to bring the Comic Con experience to the Coastal Bend in 2016. “I love the Corpus Christi area. I’ve lived here my entire life,” Benavides shared in a 2018 interview with The Bend. “One weekend, I was at a local toy and comic show with my family. I told my wife, ‘I can’t believe there hasn’t been an actual Corpus Christi Comic Con.’ And then I asked her what she thought about me starting it.”
From there, Benavides brought on two co-owners, John Garcia and Ryan Romel, along with their wives and a small staff, and executed the first comic con in 2017. Their first year saw about 7,000 attendees. This year, the event expects at least 10,000 attendees throughout the weekend.
“We’re thrilled to welcome such a diverse and exciting lineup of guests for this year’s Comic Con,” said Co-owner Ryan Romel, “It’s going to be an amazing weekend full of fun and fandom, and we can’t wait to share it with everyone.”
Marking the event’s sixth year, eventgoers will find over 150 unique vendors, community panels and a fantastic lineup of stars and entertainment. A few all-star guest appearances include legendary martial artist and action hero, Chuck Norris; Rachel Leigh Cook, known for her roles in She’s All That and Josie and the Pussycat Dolls and cast members from The Walking Dead, including Ross Marquand, Paola Lázaro and Christian Serratos–who also portrayed our very own Selena in Selena: The Series on Netflix. Plus, acclaimed actor Lou Diamon Phillips, pop icon Joey Fatone and more will be on-site.
Those looking to dance among fellow geeks, bookworms, gamers, scientists and tech enthusiasts should definitely make plans to attend the annual Nerd Prom on Friday, July 26, from 8-11 p.m. in the Henry Garret Ballom. As for the dress code, cosplay attire is strongly encouraged.
“Our prom is designed for those who proudly wear their pocket protectors, speak in pop culture references and excel at Dungeons & Dragons,” Corpus Christi Comic Con shared on its website.
In addition to special guest appearances and the Nerd Prom, Comic Con attendees can also participate in cosplay contests, browse through the exhibitor hall, sing their heart out at Saturday’s Karaoke Hour event at 3:30 p.m., test their knowledge at Sunday’s Anime Jeopardy game and capture memories with over 20 photo opportunities.
Various ticket options for the three-day event are available online and at the event for additional costs. General admission tickets include single-day passes for Friday, Saturday and Sunday, plus there is a weekend pass for all three days. For those seeking a more exclusive experience, VIP passes offer early entry, special access to events and unique memorabilia. Children’s one-day passes for ages 6 to 10 are priced at $15 for any day, while weekend passes are available for $20 and kids 5 and under are free.
With an incredible lineup of stars, engaging panel discussions and unique events throughout the weekend, Corpus Christi Comic Con offers a little something for fandoms of all kinds.