San Diego Comic-Con Expands to Europe: First International Edition in Malaga

San Diego Comic-Con (SDCC) is hosting its inaugural international event in Malaga, Spain, from September 25 to 28. This expansion marks SDCC's first step outside the U.S., bringing its unique pop culture celebration to European fans and creators. The announcement was a star-studded affair in Malaga.

The iconic San Diego Comic-Con (SDCC) is set to host its maiden international edition in Malaga, Spain, as reported by Variety. Scheduled for late September, this expansion marks SDCC's first foray beyond U.S. borders, reinforcing its status as a pivotal event for pop culture enthusiasts and creators across myriad media.

For the first time, SDCC will venture outside the United States, selecting Malaga as its European host. This historic move, officially unveiled at a gala in Malaga's Gran Hotel Miramar, signifies a new chapter, with SDCC making its European debut from September 25 to 28, bringing comic and culture celebrations to a fresh audience.

David Glanzer, SDCC's chief communications and strategy officer, expressed enthusiasm for this landmark announcement, stating, "We're very excited to celebrate comics and the popular arts and share Comic-Con's unique spirit with audiences in Europe. Malaga's vibrant energy and creativity make it an ideal location for this expansion."

The event, hosted by Spanish actor and director Santiago Segura, featured prominent figures from political, cultural, and entertainment sectors. Attendees included Andalusian President Juan Manuel Moreno Bonilla and Malaga's Mayor Francisco de la Torre Prados, who both highlighted Malaga's rising significance in global cultural and digital arts.

The announcement attracted over 200 entertainment industry professionals, including filmmakers, actors, and artists like Alex de la Iglesia, Carolina Bang, Paco Plaza, and Natalia Verbeke. The unveiling concluded with a dramatic performance by the 501st Legion, featuring Stormtroopers and a grand entrance by Darth Vader, as described by Variety.

Guests were entertained with a themed cocktail reception, complete with a surprise flash mob to the iconic "Mission: Impossible" theme song.

(With inputs from agencies.)