The Comic-Con Museum is celebrating two major milestones in pop culture with the launch of two all-new world premiere exhibits opening June 30 in Balboa Park. In addition to the previously announced “20 Years of Kawaii & Chaos” — a colorful and immersive retrospective honoring the globally beloved tokidoki brand — the Museum has now also revealed a tribute to one of comics’ longest-running and most relatable strips: Luann.
“Growing Up Luann: 40 Years of Comics” invites visitors to walk through four decades of laughter, awkwardness, heartbreak, and growth alongside Luann DeGroot and her circle of friends and family. From creator Greg Evans’s early rejection letters to original artwork and impactful storylines — including Luann’s period strip that broke barriers in syndication — this exhibit offers a personal look at a comic that helped readers of all ages feel seen. The exhibit also features letters from devoted fans, showing just how much this coming-of-age strip has meant to generations.
“Luann was inspired by watching my five-year-old daughter Karen strut around in her mother’s heels and makeup,” said Luann cartoonist and creator Greg Evans. “Over the years, Luann became more than just a comic strip — it became a daily companion for anyone who ever felt uncertain about themselves, their appearance, or their place in the world.”
Meanwhile, “20 Years of Kawaii & Chaos” celebrates tokidoki’s bold, playful legacy with an explosion of color, characters, and creativity. Visitors can explore the evolution of Simone Legno’s universe, from rare collectibles and large-scale statues to collaborative fashion pieces and fine art.
Plus, they’ve still got their “Doctor Who Worlds of Wonder: Where Science Meets Fiction”, celebrating the science behind Doctor Who and the props that helped create the sci-fi world.
Exhibits are included with admission to the Comic-Con Museum, located in San Diego’s Balboa Park. The Museum is open Thursday through Tuesday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. (last entry at 4 p.m.) and is closed on Wednesdays. Tickets can be purchased on the Comic-Con Museum’s site or at the door. General admission is $30 for adults, $20 for seniors, juniors, students, and military, and $12 for children ages 6–12. Kids five and under are free.
