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Its roots date back to a 1970 event in San Diego that drew
300 attendees. It is the longest continuously running convention
of its kind in the United States, contributing an estimated $136
million to the regional economy.
The annual event, which draws more than 100,000 people, has
become increasingly important to Hollywood film studios over the
last decade as a platform for announcements tied to superhero
and science-fiction film franchises.
Comic-Con had previously only committed to staying in San Diego
until 2016, and there had been concerns among city officials
that it could move to Los Angeles or Anaheim in Orange County.
But under the agreement, the event will stay in San Diego for
two more years.
"Fans near and far can rejoice that their favorite superheroes
and celebrities will continue to gather under the San Diego
sun," Mayor Kevin Faulconer said in a statement.
Comic-Con spokesman David Glanzer said in a statement that his
group was pleased to stay in the city where the event has grown
up.
Los Angeles Mayor Eric Garcetti said in April that WonderCon, a
smaller sister event to Comic-Con International, would be held
at the Los Angeles Convention Center in 2016. At the time, he
expressed hope that the larger event might set up a home base in
Los Angeles.
WonderCon was last held in Anaheim.
This year's Comic-Con International will kick off with a preview
night on July 8 and continue through July 12.
(Reporting by Alex Dobuzinskis in Los Angeles; Editing by
Cynthia Johnston and Eric Walsh)
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