The Ultimate 2026 United Center Events Guide: Concerts, Bulls, Blackhawks, And Major Tournaments

The United Center in Chicago is gearing up for one of its most electrifying seasons yet, with a calendar packed with blockbuster concerts, high-stakes NBA and NHL action, and major national sporting tournaments. As of December 15, 2025, the official event schedule for the first half of 2026 confirms a massive lineup, cementing the venue's reputation as the Midwest's premier entertainment destination. This comprehensive guide breaks down the must-see events, from global music icons like Ariana Grande and Rush to crucial home games for the Chicago Bulls and Chicago Blackhawks, ensuring you have the freshest and most up-to-date information for planning your visit.

The 2026 schedule is a testament to the versatility of the United Center, which seamlessly transitions from an NBA court to an NHL rink, and then to a world-class concert stage, often within 24 hours. Whether you're a die-hard sports fan chasing a Chicago Bulls ticket or a music lover eager to secure a seat for a legendary rock band, this in-depth look at the venue's calendar and essential visitor information is your key to experiencing the best of Chicago entertainment.

The Blockbuster Concert & Entertainment Lineup: Music Icons and Wrestling Spectacles

The concert schedule for 2026 at the United Center is already shaping up to be legendary, featuring a mix of pop superstars, classic rock legends, and major televised wrestling events. Securing tickets early is highly recommended for these high-demand shows.

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Must-See Concerts & Tours in 2026

• Ariana Grande: The Eternal Sunshine Tour: The global pop sensation will bring her highly anticipated tour to the United Center on Thursday, August 6, 2026. This is expected to be one of the summer’s biggest shows, drawing fans from across the Midwest.
• Rush: The Fifty Something Tour: The iconic rock band Rush is set for a multi-night residency, performing on July 16, 18, 20, and 22, 2026. These special "evening with" shows will feature the band playing two sets each night, a rare treat for rock enthusiasts.
• New Edition: The New Edition Way Tour: R&B fans can look forward to a landmark event on Wednesday, February 4, 2026, as New Edition takes the stage to celebrate their music, legacy, and connection with fans.
• Windy City Smokeout: While often held nearby, the United Center calendar points to the multi-day country music and BBQ festival, Windy City Smokeout, running from July 8-12, 2026, featuring artists like Hootie & The Blowfish, Jordan Davis, and Lainey Wilson.

Major Special Events

Beyond music, the United Center will host a major WWE event, drawing wrestling fans for a night of high-octane action and drama.

• WWE Elimination Chamber: Wrestling enthusiasts can mark their calendars for Saturday, February 28, 2026, for the WWE Elimination Chamber. This premium live event is a major stop on the road to WrestleMania and promises unforgettable matches.

The Home of Chicago Sports: Bulls and Blackhawks Schedule Spotlight

As the proud home of the Chicago Bulls (NBA) and the Chicago Blackhawks (NHL), the United Center is a continuous hub of professional sports action. The upcoming schedule for December 2025 and January 2026 is filled with crucial matchups for both teams.

Chicago Bulls 2025-2026 Home Games (December & January)

The Chicago Bulls schedule for the winter months features important divisional and conference games. Fans should look for tickets to see the Bulls take on some of the NBA's toughest competitors.

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• December 2025 Key Games: The Bulls will face off against the Cleveland Cavaliers, Milwaukee Bucks, and Denver Nuggets during the festive season.
• January 2026 Highlights: Major home games include a matchup against the Utah Jazz on Wednesday, January 14, 2026, and another home game on Monday, January 26, 2026.

Chicago Blackhawks 2025-2026 Home Games (December & January)

The Chicago Blackhawks will bring the excitement of the NHL to the United Center ice with several key home games against Eastern and Western Conference rivals.

• Late December 2025: The Blackhawks host the Pittsburgh Penguins on December 28, 2025, and the New York Islanders on December 30, 2025.
• New Year's Day Hockey: Kick off 2026 with a thrilling game as the Blackhawks face the Dallas Stars on Thursday, January 1, 2026.

Major Tournaments and Special Sporting Events

The United Center is not just home to the Bulls and Blackhawks; it is a preferred venue for major collegiate and professional sporting events, hosting several high-profile tournaments in 2026 that will draw national attention.

Collegiate and Professional Showdowns

The venue's commitment to hosting diverse events is evident in the upcoming schedule of tournaments. These events are a massive draw for sports fans and provide a different atmosphere than the regular season games.

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• 2026 TIAA Big Ten Men's Basketball Tournament: The United Center will once again host the prestigious Big Ten Men's Basketball Tournament, welcoming teams and fans from across the conference for a week of intense competition leading up to March Madness.
• 2026 NCAA MARCH MADNESS Midwest Regional: The arena will be a key location for the NCAA Tournament, hosting the Midwest Regional games, a critical stage where teams battle for a spot in the Final Four.
• 2026 AT&T WNBA All-Star Game: The best players in women's professional basketball will converge on Chicago for the AT&T WNBA All-Star Game, showcasing the league's top talent and celebrating the sport.

Essential Visitor's Guide: United Center Parking, Bag Policy, and Seating Chart Tips

Attending a major event at the United Center requires a bit of planning, especially regarding logistics. Knowing the venue's rules and parking options will ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.

Navigating United Center Parking

The United Center offers numerous official parking lots, but planning ahead is crucial, especially for high-attendance events like the Chicago Bulls schedule games or major concerts. Many visitors utilize online services like SpotHero and ParkWhiz to reserve a spot in advance.

• Official Lots: Key lots include Lot H, Lot C, and Lot K, with prices varying based on proximity to the arena and the event type.
• Accessible Parking: Accessible parking is conveniently located in Lot G, situated at the southwest corner of the building, providing easy access for those with mobility needs.
• VIP Options: VIP Event Parking options are available at locations like 2000 W. Madison St. Lot for the closest access.

United Center Bag Policy: What You Can Bring

The United Center maintains a strict bag policy for the safety and security of all patrons. This policy remains consistent for concerts, Chicago Blackhawks schedule games, and special events.

• Small Clutch Bags Only: Only small purses and clutch-sized bags are permitted inside the arena.
• Size Restriction: Bags must be no larger than 10" x 6" x 2".
• Prohibited Items: Larger backpacks, tote bags, and oversized bags are strictly prohibited. A bag check service is generally not available, so plan to leave large items at home or in your vehicle.

Finding the Best Seats with the United Center Seating Chart

The United Center seating chart is highly flexible, changing dramatically between a Chicago Bulls basketball game, a Chicago Blackhawks hockey game, and a concert configuration. Utilizing an interactive seating chart online is the best way to visualize your view.

• Seat Numbering: In most sections, seat number 1 is always closer to the lower section number. For example, seat 1 in Section 111 is next to the aisle leading to Section 110.
• Budget-Friendly Views: The 300 Level sections often offer the best value for money, providing great sightlines for viewing the overall action and the banners hanging in the rafters, especially for cheap Bulls or Hawks tickets.
• Concert Views: For concerts, floor seats offer proximity, while sections in the 100 level, slightly off-center, often provide the best overall view of the stage and production.