I spent much of my weekend ensconced in pop culture fun at C2E2 (Chicago Comic and Entertainment Expo). As usual, my buddy Tony and I had a fantastic time meeting celebrities and creators, checking out vendors, attending panels and Q&As, and catching up with convention pals, many of whom I only see yearly at C2E2.

After debuting in 2010, C2E2 grew into one of the biggest Chicago conventions, drawing more than 100,000 people filling nearby hotels and bringing lots of business to area restaurants and other attractions. Founded in 2006, C2E2 organizer ReedPop also runs 30 other events worldwide, including Comic Con Seoul and New York Comic Con, which I attended last October.

Tom Richmond

C2E2 is so popular, hotels are booked months in advance. Even local folks stay in hotels to maximize their time.

Ali Cantarella

Since I have attended every C2E2, I have seen many of the creators several times, eventually becoming friends with some through our interactions. Every year, I add a couple more to my growing list. Then I follow their projects all year until I see them again at C2E2.

Danielle Fishel

On the celebrity front, we met actresses Danielle Fishel and Charisma Carpenter. Both women were extremely nice and engaging.

Charisma Carpenter

C2E2 is such an amazing event. There is something for everyone. My favorite area is Artist Alley. I especially enjoy it when artists sketch at their booths. I can watch for hours. I also like finding new artists and writers.

K Lynn Smith

It was three days of great fun, and now I have withdrawal. The good news is, since I have added NYCC to my con list, I don’t have to wait another year to be back. Thank you, ReedPop.

— John Wroblewski, online writer