While some fans flock to celebrity panels or blow their budget on the convention floor, savvy TV lovers know that one of the true highlights of San Diego Comic-Con is the explosion of over-the-top brand activations that transform downtown into a full-blown fandom playground. Whether it’s stepping inside your favorite sitcom, wandering through a beloved sci-fi universe, or exploring a set you’ve only seen on the small screen, Comic-Con offers immersive experiences that no other event can match.
Over the years, these activations have taken over more and more of the Gaslamp Quarter, growing in both size and popularity. Now you can attend a neighborhood block party hosted by your favorite fictional school or grab a bite at a backyard BBQ with an animated TV family you’ve known for years.
Here are just a few of the must-see TV activations popping up at San Diego Comic-Con 2025.
The Arlen Cookout (FX’s King of the Hill)
Where: Next to Parking Lot A behind the Convention Center
Welcome the return of Hank Hill and the gang the right way—with a full-on Texas-style cookout. To celebrate the show’s August 4 debut, Hulu is going big with a backyard bash featuring classic BBQ fare, ice-cold drinks, lawn games, and photo ops that put you right in the heart of Arlen. It’s a fitting tribute to the Hill family and a fun way for fans to kick back and say, “Yup.”
A Very Abbott Block Party (ABC’s Abbott Elementary)
Where: The blacktop behind the Convention Center
ABC throws a neighborhood block party complete with rides, games, junk food, and prizes from Abbott Elementary’s lost and found. Cool off with “authentic Philly water ice” and enjoy the sights from the Ferris wheel. Completely free and completely fun.
#AbbottElementary is ready to FUN-raise at San Diego Comic-Con, inviting attendees to experience A Very Abbott Block Party. From authentic Philly water ice and a sky-high Ferris wheel to exclusive premiums from the school’s Lost and Found, it is sure to be the hottest party on… pic.twitter.com/bwqfeQKPmP
— Abbott Elementary (@AbbottElemABC) July 8, 2025
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Alien: Earth – The Wreckage (FX’s Alien: Earth)
Where: Hilton Bayfront Lawn
FX brings Alien: Earth to Comic-Con by allowing attendees to explore the wreckage of the USCSS Maginot. During the day, fans can roam the remains of the ship, but at night, the activation takes a spooky turn as it becomes “The Wreckage: Code Red,” becoming a terrifying walk-thru complete with alien intruders and jump scares.
Paramount+ Nerd Out
Where: Omni Hotel lawn
What’s up, nerds? Paramount+ is giving fans a chance to indulge their inner geek with a tented activation packed with games, DIY activities, contests, and fun featuring their favorite Paramount shows and movies. Considering their catalog features everything from Star Trek: Discovery to the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, the activation should be a great time for geeks in attendance. No badge necessary to enjoy the festivities.
The Percy Jackson Experience (Disney+’s Percy Jackson & The Olympians)
Where: Fifth Ave and L St.
To promote Percy Jackson & The Olympians: Sea of Monsters, Disney is creating an interactive experience where guests can explore the Mist, discover if they’re a demigod, and grab some exclusive merch, all in anticipation of the upcoming season.