SDCC Schedule, Exclusives and MORE!

It’s that time of year again—San Diego Comic Con 2026 is upon us. It’s really my favorite con as it still feels (despite the Hollywood invasion of the past decade+) to the be the last comic book show all the pros attend. No disrespect to NYCC (that tends to favor cosplay and celebrities more and more), SDCC has that retro-nostalgic feel from when I first broke into the industry.

This year, you can find me all weekend long at the DREN Productions Booth L12 in small press. But aside from that, I’ll also be at several other panels and events! Without further ado…

Thursday, July 23, 2026
4:00–5:00 p.m. PDT
Room 23ABC

I’ll be joining Mariano Nicieza, Scott Lobdell, Gordon Purcell, Jessica Court, Tom Tonkin, and other guests for a special presentation featuring exclusive announcements, upcoming releases, and crossover projects involving Apex Comics Group, American Mythology, Dren Productions, Philbo, and Section 8 Publishing.

The panel will also spotlight upcoming comics and properties including American Patriot, Phazer, Sire, Biomek, Breath of the Dragon, Agent Three Zero, Blackray, Blue Sultan, The R.I.G.H.T. Project, The Outer Space Men, and more.

Fans can also expect news connected to classic ColecoVision properties such as Air Raiders, Venture, and Cosmic Avenger, along with work from creators including Ralph Macchio, Mark Bagley, Scott Hanna, Al Milgrom, Ariel Olivetti, Darick Robertson, Greg Hildebrandt, and many others.

This is a great panel for anyone who wants an early look at what is coming from Apex Comics Group and its publishing partners.

Sunday
2:00–3:00 p.m.
Room 24ABC

I will also join a group of veteran publishers and creators for a conversation about the past, present, and future of independent comics.

The panel will explore how professional creative tools, worldwide talent, social media, and direct connections with readers have transformed the independent-comics landscape. It will also look at how today’s creators are building upon the work of the rebellious artists and publishers who helped establish the indie movement during the 1990s.

I’ll appear alongside Dan Vado of SLG Publishing, Josh Blaylock of Devil’s Due Comics, Eli Schwab of Cosmic Lion Productions, Dave Dwonch of Hellbrain Productions, Todd Tochoka of Snug Comics, Jay Savage of Blackline Comics, and Mark Bandy of Crimson Sleeper Studios. The discussion will be moderated by Joshua Waldrop of Ultima Comics.

Whether you are a longtime independent-comics reader, an aspiring creator, or simply interested in how smaller publishers are changing the industry, this promises to be an informative and inspiring discussion.

Whether you have been following our comics for years, recently discovered our work, or simply want to meet the people behind the books, we would love for you to stop by and say hello. One of our favorite parts of attending conventions is getting the opportunity to talk with readers, creators, collectors, and fellow comic fans.

And, of course, we are bringing plenty of comics with us!

DREN will have several special books and convention exclusives available at our booth, including:

• Dungeons & Dimwits #0

• Deep Down Special B&W Preview Edition

• Plan 39 Cosplay Cover Edition

These special editions are a great opportunity to add something unique to your collection, preview an upcoming project, or discover a new series.

DREN will also have a selection of some of our most popular titles available throughout the convention. Whether you enjoy fantasy, horror, science fiction, comedy, or something a little stranger, there should be something waiting for you at our booth (L12).

In addition to our exclusive books, DREN will have some great giveaways available during the convention. Supplies may be limited, so be sure to stop by early and see what we have waiting for you.

But you do not have to purchase anything to visit us.

We genuinely love meeting the people who read and support our comics. Come by to introduce yourself, tell us what you have been reading, talk comics, show off your cosplay, or simply say hi.

We are excited to share that Michael Dolce of Dren Productions will be appearing on two panels at this year’s San Diego Comic-Con!

These panels offer two very different opportunities to hear Michael discuss upcoming projects, independent publishing, and the continued growth of creator-owned comics.

Finally, be sure to stop by the DREN Productions booth on Friday, July 24 at 1:30 p.m. for a special signing with Omar Morales! Omar will be signing copies of Tales of the Bizarre #14, and fans are also welcome to bring along other books or items they would like him to sign. Whether you are picking up the issue for the first time, adding a signature to your collection, or simply hoping to meet Omar and talk comics, this is a great opportunity to connect with one of our creators right at the Dren booth (L12)!

We also have some big announcements coming after the show, so also stay tuned with us!

And don’t forget to come see us at Booth L12!!!

-Mike