Pop culture fans, assemble! The 2026 Chicago Comic & Entertainment Expo (C2E2) is around the corner. Now in its 16th year, this year’s convention will have no shortage of cosplaying, celebrity sightings, panels, and activities.
Attendees at C2E2 2026 can expect cool events, activities, and pop-ups, including:
- Hundreds of exhibitors and artists
- Panels and interactive content
- Cosplay contests and meet-ups
- Celebrity photo opps and autographs
- After-hours parties and events
Whether you’re a C2E2 newcomer or a seasoned cosplaying veteran, preparing for the weekend’s festivities is the best way to make the most of the event. Here’s a guide to everything you need to know as you get ready for C2E2 this year.
What is C2E2?
Think of it as Chicago’s Comic Con. The largest pop culture convention in the Midwest, C2E2 brings celebrities, exhibitors, comic writers and illustrators, literary authors, and, of course, fans, to the Chicago downtown area. Last year’s event attracted more than 85,000 visitors from around the world.
When is C2E2?
This year’s C2E2 takes place March 27 – 29, 2026. General show hours are 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. on Friday and Saturday and 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Sunday.
Where is C2E2?
C2E2 will take place at the McCormick Place South building (2301 S. Lake Shore Drive) in Chicago’s South Loop neighborhood.
What can I do at C2E2?
From exploring during general show hours to checking out special exhibitions and panels, there’s something to satisfy any fan’s interests at C2E2.
C2E2’s celebrity guest appearances include creators, artists, actors, celebrities and more from the worlds of comic books, games, superheroes, movies, and TV.
Check the schedule for panels, celebrity photos opps, and autographing.
Here’s more to explore during C2E2:
- Artist Alley: Admire the works of your favorite comic book artists, graphic novelists, and more.
- Cosplay Central: A section of the convention center dedicated to the art of costumes, crafts, and characters.
- Family HQ: Enjoy family-friendly C2E2 fun for people of all ages.
- Writers Block: Bookworms will feel at home in this area of the convention dedicated to books and novels.
- Pride Lounge: A welcoming space where LGBTQ+ community members and allies can connect and socialize.
- Side Quest: Dive into organized play, tournaments, and free-play sessions featuring the latest games, beloved retro titles, and timeless classics.
- The Tavern: Chill out at thematic lounges where fans can relax, socialize, and refuel after a long day of adventure.
- Meetups: Connect with fellow fans and cosplayers in your fandom.
How much does it cost to go to C2E2?
C2E2 2026 tickets are now on sale:
- Single-day ticket for Friday: $66
- Single-day ticket for Saturday: $81
- Single-day ticket for Sunday: $71
- Three-day pass: $140
- Kid’s three-day pass: $46 with the purchase of an adult ticket
- VIP package: $330+
Get your C2E2 tickets today!
How can I get to C2E2?
McCormick Place is located at 2301 S. Lake Shore Drive. There are three main parking lots at McCormick Place with parking permits available for purchase. There are also several public transportation options to choose from, including taking the CTA Green Line to Cermak-McCormick Place stop, and the #3 King Drive and #21 Cermak routes provide direct access to McCormick Place. Learn more about getting to C2E2.
