Info & FAQs
No. The Eucharistic Congress is totally free for everyone.
Yes! All are welcome to come and be spiritually uplifted and meet other people of goodwill. And if you have any questions about Catholicism, just ask one of the priests walking around!
Yes. The closing Mass of the Eucharistic Congress is also the Saturday Vigil Mass. Get out of the pew and come experience Mass with thousands of people from all over the Carolinas. It will be celebrated starting at 4:15 p.m. by our new Bishop Michael Martin along with priests from across the diocese.
Dress comfortably for the Eucharistic Congress, especially if you are taking part in the outdoor Eucharistic procession on Saturday morning. The procession is held rain or shine, so dress appropriately for the weather.
First Communicants joining in the Eucharistic procession are encouraged to wear their First Communion outfits. See Procession for more info.
No. Come and go whenever you like throughout the evening Friday or anytime Saturday. Come for an hour or stay for the day – it’s entirely up to you! Check the schedule for programs you’re interested in.
No, it is voluntary. The sacrament of confession is offered to Congress-goers in English, Spanish and Vietnamese by priests of the Diocese of Charlotte, but whether you seek the sacrament is up to you. The confessionals are manned throughout the day as hundreds of people do take the opportunity to receive the healing that this sacrament can bring. If you’re uncertain or feel intimidated, don’t worry! The priest will put you at ease and help you with the prayers and responses if it’s been a while since your last confession. Don’t miss out on receiving the mercy and peace of mind that Jesus brings through this sacrament of reconciliation.
Parking
Paid garage and surface parking options surround the convention center, or skip the parking and use the light rail line straight to the front door! See getting there for details.
Food
The Charlotte Convention Center prohibits outside food from being brought inside, including coolers and other containers. A variety of food options is available for purchase inside the convention center, including Einstein Bros. Bagels, Starbucks, Bojangles’ Famous Chicken ‘n Biscuits and Buon Cibo, and a counter serving pizzas, salads and sandwiches. Also, many restaurants are located within a few steps of the convention center.
Check out this PDF guide of nearby restaurants, or search the city’s mobile-friendly list of Charlotte’s best restaurants.
Hotels
Discounted room rates at the Hilton Charlotte Center City, next door to the Charlotte Convention Center, are available for a limited time for those who are attending the Eucharistic Congress and wish to stay overnight. But there are many hotel options to choose from within an easy distance of the convention center. See getting there for details.
New & Nursing Moms
There are two nursing mothers rooms inside the convention center: one by Richardson Ballroom B and the other across from Room W211. Each room is equipped with a chair, stool and refrigerator. The rooms are private and can be locked. Strollers, baby bags and baby bottles are also permitted inside the convention center.
ADA Accessibility
All of the convention center’s facilities are ADA accessible. Accommodations include disability parking (in the NASCAR Hall of Fame parking desk adjacent to the convention center), multiple passenger elevators for access to all floors, accessible restrooms, family restrooms, and lower height water fountains.
Drivers may also drop off and pick up passengers with mobility concerns in the taxi lay-by on College Street. Call the Security Desk at (704) 339-6090 for assistance.
On the Saturday of the Eucharistic Congress, Interpretation for the Deaf is also provided during the Holy Hour and the closing Mass. Go to the reserved seating area near the stage in Hall A.
Pets
Only service animals are permitted inside the convention center. They must remain leashed and under control at all times. For details, see the convention center’s website.
