Free Comic Conventions in Chicago 2026 | Bela Con 5 Comic & Toy Show

Chicago has always had a strong comic convention scene, but in recent years fans, collectors, and creators alike have been searching for smaller, community-driven events that are affordable, accessible, and focused on comics, toys, original art, and creator interaction. As larger conventions continue to grow in scale and ticket prices, free comic conventions in Chicago are becoming more important than ever for local collectors and families looking to experience the hobby without breaking the bank.

That’s where Bela Con 5 comes in.

Bela Con 5 is one of the biggest free comic conventions in Chicago for 2026, bringing together comic shops, artists, toys, collectibles, cosplay, and exclusive comics on June 6th.

Taking place Saturday June 6th from 10am–4pm, Bela Con 5 returns to Chicago’s North Side with free admission, comic creators, toy vendors, exclusive collectibles, original art, and a unique convention atmosphere inspired by classic comic fandom and collector culture.

Updated May 2026 with new artists and exclusives!

Bela Con 5 – Chicago’s Free Comic & Toy Show

Hosted by Bela’s Comics, Bela Con 5 brings together an incredible mix of comic vendors, artists, toy collectors, indie creators, and publishers all under one roof for a one-day celebration of comics and pop culture.

The event takes place at:

Mayfair Presbyterian Church
4358 W Ainslie St
Chicago, IL 60630

Attendees can expect:

  • Comic books ranging from vintage back issues to modern keys
  • Original comic art and sketches
  • Toys and collectibles
  • Independent comics and small press creators
  • Convention exclusive variants
  • Artist meet-and-greets
  • Community-focused atmosphere

One of the biggest highlights of Bela Con 5 is the official event poster illustrated by Darick Maasen of Minds In The Gutters Comics. The artwork is a Silver Age-inspired homage filled with chaotic comic energy, featuring an over-the-top battle between Bela Con vendors and mutated Simpsons characters led by Hans Moleman himself.

Featured Guests & Creators

Bela Con 5 features an expanding lineup of comic creators and special guests including:

The event continues to spotlight independent creators and local comic talent while also bringing together longtime comic collectors and vendors from across the Chicagoland area.

Exclusive Comics & Collectibles

Bela Con 5 will also feature multiple convention exclusives available in limited quantities.

One of the most anticipated releases is the Hugo Criatura #1 Bela Con exclusive variant from Guerrilla Publishing featuring cover art by Julio A. Guerra inspired by classic Todd McFarlane-era Hulk artwork. The variant is limited to only 150 copies.

Fans can also look forward to the Devils Due 25th Anniversary Special ashcan exclusive created in collaboration with Zombie Unicorn Comics and Devils Due Studios. Featuring a Renan Shody cover and blank sketch edition, only 100 copies of each version were produced.

These exclusives continue Bela Con’s growing reputation as one of Chicago’s rising collector-focused comic events.

Why Free Comic Conventions Matter

Free comic conventions help make the hobby more accessible to everyone. Whether someone is a longtime Wednesday warrior, a toy collector hunting grails, a family introducing kids to comics for the first time, or an indie creator looking to network, free events create opportunities for the entire community to participate.

Chicago has a rich comic history, and smaller local conventions help keep that spirit alive by supporting artists, small businesses, local comic shops, and collectors directly.

Bela Con was created with that exact mindset — combining the excitement of classic comic conventions with the welcoming atmosphere of a neighborhood comic and toy show.

Chicago Comic Conventions in 2026

Chicago continues to be one of the best cities in the country for comic fans. From major conventions to local toy and comic markets, collectors have more opportunities than ever to discover comics, artwork, toys, and creators throughout the year.

For fans looking specifically for a free comic convention in Chicago, Bela Con 5 stands out as one of the city’s most unique independent comic and toy events heading into summer 2026.

Don’t Miss Bela Con 5

Looking for a free comic convention in Chicago this summer?

Bela Con 5 takes place Saturday June 6th from 10am–4pm featuring free admission, comic creators, toy vendors, original art, convention exclusives, collectibles, and more.

For updates, vendor announcements, artist reveals, and exclusive preorder information visit:

Bela Con 5 Information

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Bela Con 5 free?

Yes, admission to Bela Con 5 is completely free.

Where is Bela Con 5 located?

Mayfair Presbyterian Church on Chicago’s North Side.

What kinds of vendors will be at Bela Con?

Comic books, toys, original art, collectibles, indie comics, and more.

When is Bela Con 5?

Saturday June 6th from 10am–4pm.

 

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