The Eisner Awards Are Back: Comics’ Biggest Night Lands July 24 at the Hilton San Diego Bayfront

The “Oscars” of comics are back, mi gente, and the industry’s best creators are stepping into the spotlight at Comic-Con International.

Comic-Con International will present the 38th Annual Will Eisner Comic Industry Awards on Friday, July 24, inside the Indigo Ballroom at the Hilton San Diego Bayfront, just steps from the San Diego Convention Center. The ceremony celebrates standout comics and graphic novels published in 2025, with awards handed out across 32 categories.

Named after legendary creator Will Eisner, these awards remain the gold standard of comic book excellence the night where storytellers, artists, publishers, retailers, and industry legends get their flowers.

This year’s ceremony will be hosted by Phil LaMarr and Thomas Lennon, bringing serious talent and personality to a night already packed with comic book royalty. Lunar Distribution serves as the major sponsor, with ComicsPro sponsoring the pre-show.

The evening will also honor special award recipients, including Richard and Wendy Pini for the Bob Clampett Humanitarian Award, plus Jenny Blake Isabella and the late Martin Pasko for the Bill Finger Award.

Doors open at 7:45 PM, the ceremony begins at 8:00 PM, and attendance is free for Comic-Con badge holders. Translation: bring your badge, bring your love for comics, and bring comfortable shoes  greatness has a schedule.

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The SAN DIEGO COMIC CONVENTION (Comic-Con International) is a California Nonprofit Public Benefit Corporation organized for charitable purposes and dedicated to creating the general public’s awareness of and appreciation for comics and related popular art forms, including participation in and support of public presentations, conventions, exhibits, museums and other public outreach activities which celebrate the historic and ongoing contribution of comics to art and culture.

*Ai Disclosure: The main image includes AI-assisted artwork reviewed by Comic Crusaders before publication.