The Chicago Bulls are finally opening the gates to the fans without charging a dime. This is the best news the fanbase has seen in years, and it happens right before the season kicks off. Bulls Fest 2026’s complete schedule and event map were revealed by the team, as stated in Pippen Ain’t Easy. The location for the event is the United Center’s Lot C parking lot. The dates are set for Saturday, August 23, and Sunday, August 24, 2026. Gates open at 7 a.m. CT and close at 5 p.m. CT on both days. This is a massive opportunity for families to get into the spirit of the game without spending a single dollar on tickets.
New Faces in the Atrium
The real draw here is the chance to see the 2026 draft class up close. The team is fresh off the hope and excitement of the NBA draft and the Las Vegas Summer League. According to Pippen Ain’t Easy, fan photo sessions will be attended by rookies Tobe Awaka, Jaylin Sellers, Dailyn Swain, and Caleb Wilson. These meet-and-greets happen inside the United Center Atrium. Wilson is scheduled for his photo session at 2:30 p.m. CT on Saturday. Swain follows him at 4 p.m. CT that same day. The two-way rookies, Sellers and Awaka, will share a session at 11 a.m. CT on Sunday. Fans can find all the registration details for the 3-on-3 tournament at BullsFest.com, which runs from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Saturday and ends at 4:30 p.m. on Sunday.
Legends from Every Era
It is not just about the new guys. The alumni lineup is deep enough to satisfy even the most cynical observer. The schedule includes stars from the lean “Baby Bulls” era of the early 2000s. Kendall Gill is scheduled for Sunday, whereas Eddy Curry and Metta World Peace appear on the Saturday roster. The dynasty representation comes from four-time NBA champion center Will Perdue. This mix of eras shows the franchise respects its history while building for the future. The wheelchair 3-on-3 basketball tournament is also a constant attraction, running in a coed format for all skill levels. It is a sign of a team that wants to be inclusive and part of the community.
This event proves the Bulls are ready to engage with the city before the first tip-off. The free admission removes the barrier that usually keeps casual fans away. With the roster map dropping and the dates locked in, the only thing left to do is show up. The team has set the stage for a weekend that blends the past with the promise of the future. Fans should head to BullsFest.com to get their tickets and plan their weekend around the photo sessions. The United Center will be buzzing with energy on those two days in August.
Sources: Pippen Ain’t Easy (FanSided Bulls)
