Extra Life Chicago Gaming Convention

Join Us for the 4th Annual Extra Life Chicago Gaming Convention
Sunday, February 22, 2026 | 11 am – 6 pm
Artifact Events | 4325 N Ravenswood Ave, Chicago, IL 60613

Registration

The Extra Life Chicago Gaming Convention (ELCGC) is Chicago’s original charity gaming convention, built to bring together players, creators, and fans for one impactful day of gaming for a cause. It’s where you can level up your fun while making a real difference for kids at Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago.

From gaming tournaments to video games and Dungeons and Dragons, cosplay contests to live performances, ELCGC has something for every type of player. Choose your own adventure from the below:

Console, PC, tabletop, and arcade games for every skill level
Artist Alley packed with local talent and unique merch
A cosplay competition judged by Lurie Children’s patients
Live entertainment that celebrates gaming culture
Food, drinks, and plenty of ways to make new friends who love gaming as much as you do!

Your support matters. Every button mash, dice roll, and photo op helps raise funds for kids who need life-changing care.

Sponsorship Opportunities

When you sponsor ELCGC, you’re not just putting your logo on a banner, you’re joining forces with the Chicago gaming community to help kids get the care they need, when they need it most. Your brand will be front and center with an engaged, passionate audience while aligning with the world-class care of Lurie Children’s. Sponsors gain visibility, credibility, and the chance to be part of something truly game changing.

Please reach out to [email protected] to learn more

Vendor & Artist Alley

Ready to show off your craft? From hand-painted minis to fan art, custom controllers to unique cosplay props, Artist Alley is your chance to get your creations in front of hundreds of gamers. Booth reservations are a tax-deductible donation to Lurie Children’s:
$75 – 8-foot table, tablecloth, admission for 2, food and drink all day
$100 – 8-foot table, power source, tablecloth, admission for 2, food and drink all day

Spots fill fast — email [email protected] to secure yours.

Cosplay Competition

This is your moment to bring your favorite character to life. Our cosplay competition is judged by Lurie Children’s patients, making it one of the most heartfelt contests you’ll ever enter. Costumes must be family-friendly, and weapons of any kind (even foam or replica) are a no-go.

Performances & Entertainment

Our main stage is where gaming meets the spotlight. Past acts have included cosplay dance battles, Mortal Kombat martial arts demos, live chiptune performances, and DJs spinning game soundtrack remixes. If your talent can wow the crowd, we want to see it.

Email [email protected] to get on stage.

Any other skills or ways to make ELCGC engaging?

We want to hear from you! Please let us know if you have any talents, skills or strengths that you think would fit in at our convention. E-mail us at [email protected].

FAQ

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Where and when is the Extra Life Chicago Gaming Convention?

The 4th annual Extra Life Chicago Gaming Convention will be on Sunday, February 22, 2026 from 11 am – 6 pm at Artifact Events (4325 N Ravenswood Ave, Chicago, IL 60613).

How much does a ticket cost?

Attendee Prices

Individual [Adult] - $30
Individual [Child] - $20
Individual [Student] - $25
Under 3 – Free

Is Extra Life Chicago Gaming Convention a family-friendly event?

Yes, the Extra Life Chicago Gaming Convention is for all ages! There will be games accessible for everyone, from tabletop set-ups to video game streaming. Join in on a competition or play for fun with anyone and everyone who loves to game.

Do I have to be a gamer to attend ELCGC?

No! Participation in Extra Life looks different for everyone. Our community is made up of people from all walks of life, but we all share the mission of supporting the patients and families at Children's Miracle Network Hospitals.

Is my ticket refundable?

Tickets and/or badges ("Tickets") for the event ("Event") are non-refundable and non-transferable and cannot be reproduced or resold. The unauthorized resale or attempted resale of the Ticket is prohibited and will constitute a forfeiture of the Ticket without compensation. Each Ticket must be used by the same person (the "Attendee") for the Event. The Event's operating hours, schedules, vendors, and programming are subject to change or cancellation without notice. Each Ticket is a revocable license to attend the Event. All programming and performances are subject to availability and access is not guaranteed. Extra Life and Lurie Children's are not responsible for lost or stolen Tickets.

Can I leave ELCGC and come back in?

Yes, please ensure you have your badge for re-entry.

Can I bring outside food/drink?

ELCGC attendees will receive food and drink as part of their event admission. However, one re-fillable water bottle is also allowed per guest. Any food required for medical purposes, medically-indicated nutritional supplements, and special dietary needs can be brought into the event. Baby food/formula are also allowed! Outside alcoholic beverages are not permitted.

Can I wear a costume?

Yes! We will be having a Cosplay Competition, but even if you do not enter the contest, you are welcome to come to ELCGC in costume. Due to the family-friendly nature of the event, weapons are not permitted, including any toy/plastic/foam weapons.

Extra Life Chicago Gaming Convention