The Most Popular Comic Con, Ranked

Choose the Comic Con you think is the most popular!

Author: Gregor Krambs
Updated on Apr 19, 2024 06:57
Every year, fans from around the globe gather at various Comic Cons to celebrate their favorite characters, stories, and creators. These events are highlighted by panels, merchandise, and the palpable excitement of shared fandom. However, with so many happening worldwide, attendees and hopeful visitors often wonder which ones truly capture the magic of these beloved genres. By participating in this live ranking, fans can cast their votes to help determine which Comic Con stands out among the rest. This ongoing tally not only reflects current trends and popular opinions but also aids newcomers in identifying which events might offer them the most memorable experiences. Your vote could steer someone toward their ultimate fan experience, shaping how these fantastic gatherings are viewed globally.

What Is the Most Popular Comic Con?

  1. 1
    76
    votes
    The largest and most well-known comic convention in the world, attracting over 130,000 attendees annually. It features panels, screenings, cosplay, and exhibitors from the entertainment industry.
    San Diego Comic-Con International (SDCC) is a multi-genre entertainment and comic convention that takes place annually in San Diego, California, United States. It is one of the largest and most popular comic conventions in the world, attracting a diverse range of attendees including fans, industry professionals, and media outlets.
    • Location: San Diego, California, United States
    • Year of First Convention: 1970
    • Attendance: Over 130,000 annually
    • Duration: Four days (usually Thursday to Sunday)
    • Genres: Comics, movies, TV shows, anime, gaming, and more
  2. 2
    49
    votes
    The second-largest comic convention in the United States, held annually in New York City. It features a large exhibition floor, celebrity guests, and panels covering comics, film, television, and gaming.
    The New York Comic Con is one of the most popular fan conventions in the world, specifically focused on comic books, anime, manga, and pop culture. Held annually in New York City, it provides a platform for fans and industry professionals to come together and celebrate their love for comics and related entertainment.
    • Location: New York City
    • Year First Held: 2006
    • Duration: 4 days
    • Attendance: Over 200,000
    • Exhibitors: Over 700
    New York Comic Con in other rankings
  3. 3
    24
    votes
    A large comic convention held annually in Seattle, Washington. It features panels, celebrity guests, and exhibitors from the comic book, film, and television industries.
    Emerald City Comic Con is one of the most popular comic conventions held annually in Seattle, Washington. It brings together comic book, sci-fi, fantasy, and pop culture enthusiasts from all around the world. The event features a wide range of activities including celebrity panels, autograph sessions, cosplay contests, gaming tournaments, exclusive merchandise, and artist alley.
    • Location: Seattle, Washington
    • Year of Inception: 2003
    • Frequency: Annual
    • Duration: 4 days
    • Attendees: Over 98,000 in 2019
  4. 4
    14
    votes
    An annual comic convention held in Anaheim, California, organized by the same team behind San Diego Comic-Con. It features exhibitors, celebrity guests, and panels covering all aspects of pop culture.
    WonderCon is an annual comic book, science fiction, and pop culture convention held in various cities in the United States. It was created by the nonprofit organization Comic-Con International (CCI), which also produces the world-famous San Diego Comic-Con. WonderCon features a diverse range of panels, workshops, exhibitions, and film screenings, attracting fans of all ages and interests. With its focus on comics, movies, television, and gaming, WonderCon offers a unique and immersive experience for attendees.
    • Location: Various cities in the United States
    • Frequency: Annual
    • Focus: Comic books, science fiction, pop culture
    • Organizer: Nonprofit organization Comic-Con International (CCI)
    • Panels: Wide range of panels discussing various topics
  5. 5
    13
    votes
    A large pop culture convention held annually in Atlanta, Georgia, with a focus on science fiction, fantasy, and gaming. It features panels, cosplay, and a parade through the streets of Atlanta.
    Dragon Con is one of the most popular annual multi-genre conventions held in Atlanta, Georgia, United States. It was first organized in 1987 by a group of science fiction and gaming enthusiasts who wanted to create a convention that focused on multiple fandoms and genres.
    • Location: Atlanta, Georgia, USA
    • Year Established: 1987
    • Frequency: Annual
    • Genres: Science fiction, fantasy, gaming, comics, literature, and more
    • Attendance: Over 85,000 in recent years
    Dragon Con in other rankings
  6. 6
    18
    votes

    Comic-Con International: Chicago

    Comic-Con International
    A large comic convention held annually in Chicago, Illinois. It features exhibitors, celebrity guests, and panels covering all aspects of pop culture.
    Comic-Con International: Chicago is an annual comic book, science fiction, and entertainment convention held in Chicago, Illinois. It is one of the most popular Comic Cons worldwide, attracting a large number of fans and industry professionals.
    • Location: Chicago, Illinois
    • Frequency: Annual
    • Genre: Comic book, science fiction, entertainment
    • Attendance: High
    • Audience: Fans and industry professionals
  7. 7
    9
    votes

    Fan Expo Canada

    Informa Exhibitions
    The largest comic convention in Canada, held annually in Toronto, Ontario. It features panels, celebrity guests, and exhibitors from the comic book, film, and television industries.
    Fan Expo Canada is a large popular culture convention held annually in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. It is one of the largest Comic Con events in North America, attracting fans of comics, sci-fi, horror, anime, gaming, and more.
    • Location: Toronto, Ontario, Canada
    • Frequency: Annual
    • First edition: 1995
    • Attendance: Over 150,000 visitors in recent years
    • Exhibitors: Over 400 exhibitors
  8. 8
    8
    votes
    A large pop culture convention held annually in Houston, Texas. It features exhibitors, celebrity guests, and panels covering all aspects of pop culture.
    Comicpalooza is one of the most popular Comic Con events held annually in Houston, Texas. It brings together fans of comics, sci-fi, fantasy, gaming, and pop culture for a weekend of entertainment and celebration.
    • Location: Houston, Texas
    • Frequency: Annual
    • Genre: Comics, Sci-Fi, Fantasy, Gaming, Pop Culture
    • Year of Establishment: 2008
    • Attendance: Over 50,000
  9. 9
    10
    votes
    A large comic convention held annually in Chicago, Illinois, organized by the same team behind New York Comic Con. It features exhibitors, celebrity guests, and panels covering all aspects of pop culture.
    C2E2 (short for Chicago Comic & Entertainment Expo) is one of the most popular comic conventions held annually in Chicago, Illinois. It is a celebration of comics, movies, TV shows, gaming, cosplay, and all things pop culture. The event provides a platform for fans to meet their favorite comic creators, attend panels and workshops, purchase exclusive merchandise, and participate in various activities.
    • Location: Chicago, Illinois
    • Event Type: Comic Convention
    • Frequency: Annual
    • Year of Inception: 2010
    • Attendance: Over 80,000
  10. 10
    12
    votes

    Salt Lake Comic Con

    Dan Farr and Bryan Brandenburg
    A large comic convention held annually in Salt Lake City, Utah. It features exhibitors, celebrity guests, and panels covering all aspects of pop culture.
    Salt Lake Comic Con is an annual pop culture convention held in Salt Lake City, Utah. It is a gathering of fans and enthusiasts from various genres including comics, movies, TV shows, gaming, and more. The event features celebrity guests, panel discussions, cosplay contests, exhibits, autograph signings, and other interactive activities.
    • Location: Salt Lake City, Utah
    • Year of inception: 2013
    • Attendance (2019): Over 150,000
    • Duration: Multiple days (typically 3-4)
    • Notable guests: Stan Lee, Chris Evans, Jason Momoa, William Shatner, and more

Missing your favorite Comic Con?

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Discussion

Ranking factors for popular Comic Con

  1. Attendance numbers
    One of the key factors in determining the popularity of a Comic Con is the number of attendees. A higher number of visitors typically indicates that the event is more popular among fans and the general public.
  2. Guest line-up
    The presence of popular actors, comic book creators, and other industry professionals can attract more fans to a Comic Con event.
  3. Media coverage
    The level of media coverage a Comic Con receives (both in terms of the number of articles published about the event and the reach of the media outlets) is another important factor to consider.
  4. Social media engagement
    The level of engagement on social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram can provide an indication of a Comic Con's popularity.
  5. Quality of the event
    A well-organized event with a diverse range of activities, panels, and attractions can contribute greatly to its popularity. Factors like event layout, amenities, and staff responsiveness also impact the overall experience for attendees.
  6. Duration
    The length of the Comic Con (typically over multiple days) can influence its popularity, as longer events may be able to attract more attendees and offer a wider range of activities and panels.
  7. Reputation
    The reputation of a Comic Con, developed over many years, also affects its popularity. This can be influenced by the quality of past events, positive word-of-mouth, and the longevity of the event.
  8. Location and accessibility
    The location of the Comic Con and how accessible it is to attendees, in terms of transportation options and accommodation, can impact its popularity.
  9. Fan and community involvement
    The extent to which a Comic Con involves and engages with fans and the broader community can influence its popularity. This can include fan-led panels and events, as well as collaborations with local businesses and organizations.
  10. Ticket cost and availability
    Ticket prices and availability can also impact a Comic Con's popularity. More affordable and easily accessible tickets could contribute to a higher attendance rate and a wider range of attendees.

About this ranking

This is a community-based ranking of the most popular Comic Con. We do our best to provide fair voting, but it is not intended to be exhaustive. So if you notice something or Convention is missing, feel free to help improve the ranking!

Statistics

  • 2931 views
  • 234 votes
  • 10 ranked items

Voting Rules

A participant may cast an up or down vote for each Convention once every 24 hours. The rank of each Convention is then calculated from the weighted sum of all up and down votes.

More information on most popular comic con

Comic Con is a pop culture phenomenon that has taken the world by storm. It is a convention that brings together fans of comic books, movies, TV shows, and video games to celebrate their shared love of all things geeky. Originally started in San Diego in 1970, Comic Con has since spread to cities around the world, including New York, London, and Tokyo. Each Comic Con features a variety of events, including panels with famous actors and creators, cosplay contests, and exclusive merchandise. Fans from all walks of life come together to share their passion for their favorite fandoms and connect with like-minded individuals. With so many Comic Cons to choose from, it can be difficult to determine which one is the most popular. However, by looking at attendance numbers, social media buzz, and overall hype, it is possible to get a sense of which events are truly the most popular among fans. So, which Comic Con reigns supreme? Let's take a look.

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