Chicago Comic Conventions Guide (2026) | Free & Paid Comic Cons in Chicago

Chicago Comic Conventions Guide (2026)

Chicago has one of the most active comic book communities in the United States. From massive convention center shows to smaller local comic and toy shows, there are events happening year round for collectors, creators, and fans.

If you're searching for comic conventions in Chicago, there are several events each year ranging from massive shows like C2E2 to smaller community-driven events like Bela Con – Chicago’s free comic and toy show.

Below is a guide to some of the most popular comic conventions in Chicago, including events focused on comics, toys, cosplay, and independent creators.

Major Comic Conventions in Chicago

• Bela Con – Chicago Comic & Toy Show
• C2E2 – Chicago Comic & Entertainment Expo
• Fan Expo Chicago

Bela Con – Chicago Comic & Toy Show

Bela Con is a growing Chicago comic and toy show focused on independent creators, comic book collectors, and vintage toys.

Unlike many large conventions, Bela Con offers free admission, making it one of the few free comic conventions in Chicago.

The event features:

  • comic book vendors

  • toy collectors

  • independent comic creators

  • local artists

  • collectibles and memorabilia

Event Details

Saturday June 6
10am – 4pm

Mayfair Presbyterian Church
4358 W Ainslie St
Chicago, Illinois

Visitors can browse hundreds of comics, toys, and collectibles while meeting creators from the Chicago comic scene.

Follow Bela’s Comics on Instagram for updates and guest announcements

C2E2 (Chicago Comic & Entertainment Expo)

C2E2 is one of the largest comic conventions in Chicago, held annually at McCormick Place.

The show features:

  • major comic publishers

  • celebrity guests

  • cosplay events

  • exclusive merchandise

C2E2 attracts tens of thousands of fans each year and is considered the biggest pop culture convention in the Midwest.

Fan Expo Chicago

Fan Expo Chicago is another large Chicago comic convention featuring:

  • comic creators

  • movie and television guests

  • gaming events

  • cosplay competitions

The convention takes place at the Donald E Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont.

Smaller Comic Shows and Toy Shows in Chicago

Chicago is also home to many smaller comic conventions and toy shows throughout the year.

These local events are great places to:

  • discover independent comic creators

  • find vintage comic book keys

  • meet other collectors

  • support local comic shops

Bela Con is part of this growing network of community driven comic events.

Why Chicago Has One of the Best Comic Scenes

Chicago has produced some of the most influential comic creators and publishers in the industry.

The city continues to support:

  • independent comic creators

  • local comic shops

  • artist driven conventions

  • collector focused toy shows

Events like Bela Con, C2E2, and Fan Expo help keep the Chicago comic community thriving.

FAQ – Chicago Comic Conventions

What is the biggest comic convention in Chicago?
C2E2 is one of the largest comic conventions in Chicago and is held at McCormick Place each year.

Are there any free comic conventions in Chicago?
Yes. Bela Con is a Chicago comic and toy show that offers free admission and features vendors, artists, and collectibles.

When is Bela Con in Chicago?
Bela Con returns June 6, 2026 at Mayfair Presbyterian Church in Chicago.

Want to experience a free Chicago comic convention?

Visit Bela Con – Chicago’s Comic & Toy Show!

Follow Bela’s Comics on Instagram for updates, guest announcements, and vendor reveals.

Last updated: March 2026