Downtown Phoenix businesses are expecting throngs of costumed visitors later this week for Comicon, an annual pop culture event at the Phoenix Convention Center. 

The comic-book themed activities from Thursday through Sunday are likely to attract as many as 85,000 attendees this year, according to the city of Phoenix. 

Attendees, many wearing costumes and posing as superheroes, are encouraged to take alternative transportation including the Metro Light Rail, city buses, pedicabs, cabs or carpooling when possible.

Parking is $20 in the Convention Center North, Regency, Heritage and East garages.

All bags will be searched at the Convention Center and costume weapons must be inspected and tagged before entering the building.

There will be a series of outdoor activities on Third Street including performances on the main stage, a disc jockey and food trucks serving Comicon attendees and vendors.

The Phoenix Convention Center is an Americans with Disabilities Act compliant facility, which welcomes guests with special needs and service animals.