Author: Zeb Navarro
Friday July 25, 2025
If you’ve ever wondered what stepping out from the Exhibitor Hall and into an adventure with Klingon would be —or if you just wanted an hour of joyful, unapologetic Star Trek enthusiasm—the “Klingon Lifestyles” panel at San Diego Comic-Con International was an absolute highlight.
From the moment the panel began, the vibe in the room was welcoming, funny, and surprisingly thoughtful to returning and first-time attendees. This installment of “Klingon Lifestyles” is the 32nd installment and is one of the longest running panels at San Diego Comic Con. It is everything you want it to be: mixed media, live performances, adventure, comedy, and a genuine tribute to all things Star Trek and Comic Con.
One of the biggest strengths of the panel was how positive and inclusive it was. Whether you were a lifelong Star Trek fan fluent in Klingon phrases or someone who wandered in out of curiosity, the panel made room for you. Although it is another installment in an epic adventure, it can be enjoyed by all and will even have you smiling with anticipation for next year’s installment of the ILV Strangehold. After the panel, the cast thanked all attendees and even paid tribute to those that have passed. The message was clear: you don’t have to “get it” to participate; you just have to bring enthusiasm and respect. All are welcomed and there is no gatekeeping.
There was also a lot of laughter. Stories about Klingon artifacts, elaborate mishaps and puns, and the joy of staying in character all landed beautifully with the audience. At the same time, the panel didn’t shy away from why Klingons resonate so strongly with people—especially the appeal of a culture that values honesty, loyalty, and facing challenges head-on. In a busy, sometimes overwhelming convention schedule, it was refreshing to sit in a room where passion and playfulness were the point.
By the end of the panel, it felt like everyone walked out a little more energized—and maybe a little more inclined to shout “Qapla’!” on the way to their next stop. “Klingon Lifestyles” wasn’t just a fun SDCC panel; it was a reminder of why fan culture matters. It builds connection, celebrates creativity, and turns shared imagination into something that feels genuinely meaningful.
