After a two-year hiatus, San Diego Comic-Con (SDCC) is back in full form this summer, and, even if you aren’t a lucky badge-holder, you can still rejoice in the convention’s return with plenty of events and activities.

Across many fandoms, and many parts of San Diego, there is a place for every fan at SDCC 2022.

Comic-Con schedules, downtown dining recommendations and more

Here are 22 ways you and your family can celebrate Comic-Con without the coveted badge.

Just when you thought Comic-Con couldn’t get any better, the Helen Woodward Animal Center announced that they are hosting their 10th annual PAWmicon, a day full of comic-themed fun for pets. The event includes a pet cosplay contest with categories ranging from supervillains to cartoon canines, miniature movie sets for photo opportunities and even a scavenger hunt. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. July 17. The Town & Country Resort, 500 Hotel Circle N, San Diego. $15 for adults and $5 for children ages 5 - 12. my.animalcenter.org/event/pawmicon-2022/e407078

Located at San Diego’s iconic venue, House of Blues, the dance party celebrates 40 years of “Tron” with an electronic-themed night. Music will be provided by Jason Bentley, music supervisor for “Tron: Legacy,” and Qrion, electronic dance musician. Included with the purchase of a ticket is a drink voucher, snacks, a light-up wristband and a commemorative keepsake. 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. July 22. House of Blues, 1055 Fifth Ave., San Diego. $45-$65 per ticket. Ages 18 and under must be accompanied by a parent. d23.com/d23-event/d23-derezzed-a-tron-40th-dance-party

Returning this year to the Petco Park Interactive Zone, the Hello Kitty Cafe Truck offers a variety of themed treats, including giant Hello Kitty chef cookies and Hello Kitty macarons. Along with baked treats, the truck will be stocked with Hello Kitty merchandise.10 a.m. to 7 p.m. July 22-23; 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. July 24. Petco Park, 100 Park Blvd., San Diego. Prices vary. sanrio.com/blogs/hellokittycafe/hello-kitty-cafe-trucks

From kemetic yoga to cosplay contests to panels with Black comic creators, artists and innovators, the three-day Afrofuturism Lounge provides an educational and fun experience in its fifth year. Hosted at Quartyard, an outdoor community venue, the event offers an opportunity to engage in discussion and appreciation of Black-centered art, thought leadership and more. Doors open at 2 p.m. July 21 - July 22. Quartyard, 1301 Market St., San Diego. Free to $20 per person. afrofuturismlounge.com

After a three-year hiatus, Fandom is back with its Fandom Party, an immersive event celebrating the fan experience with their favorite stories. Partnered with Paramount+ this year, “Halo,” “Beavis and Butt-Head” and “Star Trek” will be incorporated into the event’s menu, and entertainment will be provided by DJ Don Diablo. There will be a collectible lanyard provided to each guest, a Fandom & Paramount+ interactive photo booth and a Halo-themed bar with one-of-a-kind drinks. 7 p.m. to 11 p.m. July 21. Float at the Hard Rock Hotel, 207 Fifth Ave., San Diego. Free. Tickets are available on a first-come, first-served basis. about.fandom.com/news/fandoms-back-in-san-diego-for-comic-con-2022-with-its-annual-party-on-july-21

“Star Trek” actor William Shatner is being celebrated by Legion M with a day of events open to the public, honoring his career and impact. The day will begin with a handprint ceremony, followed by a signing and photo opportunity. At night, there will be a rooftop afterparty with a special performance by William Shanter. 10 a.m. Handprint Ceremony; 11:30 a.m. autograph session; 6:40 p.m. autograph session; 8 p.m: rooftop afterparty. July 21. Theatre Box San Diego, 701 Fifth Ave., San Diego. Ticket prices vary per event. shop.legionm.com/pages/shatner-sdcc-2022

Look out! Here comes Spider-Man. The Comic-Con Museum is hosting a special exhibition on this iconic superhero with original artwork, behind-the-scenes history and unique artifacts. This interactive exhibit is a fun way to learn more about your favorite comic character — from comic book pages to the big screen. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Open daily. Comic-Con Museum, 2131 Pan American Plaza, San Diego. $30 for adults ages 18 and older; $18 for kids ages 4-12; $24 for seniors, military and students ages 13-17. Buy tickets by searching “Spider-Man” on feverup.com/san-diego

Kevin Smith’s vibrant movies come to life in the Mooby’s pop-up restaurant at Tin Roof. Decorated to resemble the fictional restaurant, the pop-up will provide an immersive experience for fans, offering everything from Moo Mains and Salt Lick Sides (which come with vegan options) to Mooby’s Chronic Con Beer. There will also be new merchandise sold at the pop-up. 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. July 21-23; 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. July 24. Tin Roof, 401 G St., San Diego. $30 per person. exploretock.com/moobys-at-tin-roof-san-diego

Returning this year with an Asgardian theme, the Ready Party One: Love and Thunder SDCC Kick-Off Party is a festive way to celebrate the Comic-Con season. Attendees are encouraged to dress up, ready to dance the night away to live music provided by The Flux Capacitors. 8 p.m. to 2 a.m. July 20. Parq Restaurant and Nightclub, 615 Broadway, San Diego. $45 - $275 per person. Ages 21 and older. eventbrite.com/e/ready-party-one-love-and-thunder-sdcc-kick-off-party-tickets-338537734477?aff=ebdssbdestsearch

Professional and amateur artists alike gather to showcase their original work at the Comic-Con Art Show, a collection that spans from paintings to sculptures to jewelry. At the show, you can window shop, purchase the works or join in on a silent auction in order to support the contributing artists. 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. July 21-22; 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. July 23; 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. July 24. Manchester Grand Hyatt, Lobby Level, Grand Hall CD, 1 Market Place, San Diego. Free. comic-con.org/cci/art-show

In anticipation of its newest film, “Dungeons & Dragons: Honor Among Thieves,” Paramount Pictures is bringing the movie’s fantasy world to life with an immersive fan Tavern Experience. On the corner of Sixth and Island avenues, the pop-up tavern will include a 20-minute interactive program and offer Dragon Brew for patrons to drink while exploring. Noon to 10 p.m. July 21; 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. July 22-23. Corner of Sixth Avenue and Island Avenue. Free. ign.com/articles/dungeons-dragons-honor-among-thieves-comic-con-panel-tavern-experience

Walk among towering statues of your favorite “Dragon Ball” characters while exploring the Dragon Ball special booth. Along with product displays and unique game experiences, there will be giveaways, including a Comic-Con swag bag, paper fans and more. July 21 - July 24. Marriott Marquis San Diego Marina Terrace, 333 W Harbor Drive, San Diego. Free. en.dragon-ball-official.com/special/sdcc2022

Enjoy refreshments and panoramic views of San Diego aboard the Voodoo Ranger Pirate Ship. All proceeds from the voyage’s beer sales will be donated to Stack Up, an organization that provides support, through video gaming, to military service members facing mental health issues. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. July 21 and 24; 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. July 22-23. San Diego Maritime Museum, 1492 N Harbor Drive, San Diego. Free.

Celebrate your favorite “Looney Tunes” characters at The Chuck Jones Gallery pop-up, where there will be special virtual and actual reality exhibits of the iconic cartoon. The gallery will also have unique artwork for sale, displayed by the artists themselves onsite. July 21 - July 24. Sparks Gallery, 530 Sixth Ave., San Diego. Free. chuckjonescatalog.com/comic-con-2022-line-up

Heavy Metal Entertainment, home to comics, podcasts and more of the science-fiction, fantasy and horror genres, is marking this year’s convention with its Heavy Metal Live Hornblower Boat Party. Aboard the ship, the party will feature live music from DJ Matt Steffanina and electronic artist Doll Machine. 7 p.m. July 23. San Diego Harbor, 1800 North Harbor Drive, San Diego. $34.95 to $49.95 per person. posh.vip/e/heavy-metal-presents-matt-steffanina-comic-con-san-diego-yacht-party

Among all of the exciting festivities at Comic-Con, NBCUniversal will be providing a space for fans to relax and immerse themselves in the worlds of “Quantum Leap,” “Chucky” and more. The space, located in Gaslamp Plaza near the Tin Fish restaurant, will offer photo opportunities and giveaways throughout the convention. 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. July 21-23; 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. July 24. Tin Fish, 170 Sixth Ave., San Diego. Free.

At COZI TV’s Iconic Characters exhibit, fans can celebrate their favorite characters and even meet one — actor French Stewart, who played Harry Soloman in the comedy “Third Rock from the Sun,” will make an appearance at the exhibit on July 22. Also inspired by “Third Rock from the Sun,” a 1962 AMC Rambler American 400 will be featured at the event and will later be given to a sweepstakes winner. 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. July 21 - July 24. MLK Promenade, 326 West Harbor Drive, San Diego. Free.

To commemorate Audible originals “Impact Winter” and “The Sandman,” Audible will be hosting Audible Beach at this year’s Comic-Con. The beach will feature giant sand sculptures, the chance to sample Audible originals and photo opportunities. 8 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. July 21-23; 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. July 24. First Avenue and MLK Promenade. Free.

At the Her Universe Fashion Show, 26 designers will compete with their original geek couture designs for the opportunity to design a line with Hot Topic. The theme for the fashion show is “coming home,” and it will be hosted by Her Universe founder Ashley Eckstein (Star Wars: The Clone Wars) and Nina West (RuPaul’s Drag Race). Check-in at 1 p.m. Doors open at 5:15 p.m. July 21. Harbor Ballroom of the Manchester Grand Hyatt Hotel, 1 Market Place, San Diego.

Beat the heat with the “Star Trek” Summer of Sweet Revenge Coolhaus ice cream truck, parked in front of the convention center. In celebration of “Star Trek II: The Wrath of Khan’s” 40th anniversary, the truck will be offering themed, free ice cream to fans. July 23. San Diego Convention Center, 111 West Harbor Drive, San Diego. Free. wrathofpkhan.com

A24 is bringing its new movie “Bodies Bodies Bodies” to San Diego for an advanced screening with its director and cast. The movie is about a group of 20-somethings attending a party in a mansion with deadly consequences and its cast includes Maria Bakalova (Borat Subsequent Moviefilm) and Pete Davidson (The King of Staten Island). The event is open to the public, first come, first served. 9 p.m. July 22, Theatre Box San Diego, 701 5th Ave., San Diego. Free.

The San Diego Symphony Orchestra will present the sounds of “Dragon Ball Z” at a free concert. The event will include live vocals and will be a “truly immersive multimedia” experience, according to organizers. Gates open at 5:30 p.m., event runs from 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. July 23. The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park. 222 Marina Park Way. Behind the convention center. Free.

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