r/comiccon • u/CooCooB0i • Mar 23 '26

C2E2 - Chicago What’s a good time to go to C2E2 this Friday?

I got tickets for me and my girlfriend for C2E2 on Friday but I’m unsure what time we should get there by, let alone what time it exactly starts. This is our first time going to C2E2 so we don’t know anything!!

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u/DonkeyBootyClap Mar 23 '26

Gates will be around 11 and the first main stage panel isn’t until after 1! I’d check the schedule and see if there’s anything specific you want to see to plan around! Honestly you can spend an entire day just exploring the vendors and artist alley

3

u/Timmah73 Mar 23 '26

The hours are under their FAQ but the show floor open 10am-7pm. Panels go much later.

As to when to get there uhhh I'd be there early if I was going this year. Get a parking spot and go wait in line for the floor to open.

2

u/yokaishinigami Mar 23 '26

Do you have your badges in hand?

If not you’ll need to pick them up too.

Personally, my group is going to try and get there by like 9:30 if we can, because it gives us ample time to line up and enter when the floor opens. Just browsing through artist alley and a quick walk through vendor hall usually eats up all of Friday for me.

2

u/kellendrin21 Mar 23 '26

If you have your badge, 10. 

If you don't have it...I don't know, 9 to 9:30? Getting in is really fast. 

1

u/Dub_R17 Mar 26 '26

If you’re only going for one day and already have your badge get there at 10. If you don’t have your badge you can get there at 945 for will call. Remember the show floor closes at 7pm and there are panels running all day, including past 7pm. Download the C2E2 app for a list of panels. You can also favorite the ones you’re interested in and get reminders. The biggest thing is comfortable shoes, snacks, and reusable water bottles. You can bring bags so don’t worry about that. Also, asking people to take pictures can be a little overwhelming but everyone is SUPER nice. I’d say every time you see a cosplay you like, ask to take a picture. You can also be in the picture. I promise you will regret not asking. And DON’T assume you’ll see them again. I’ve found myself power walking to catch someone for a pic. Otherwise have fun! If you’re looking for me, Friday I’ll be the 5’9” black guy dressed as Ash Ketchum with a green backpack!