Attendee Guide · 18+ Event

Plan Your Bak'd On The Bay Experience

Everything you need before September 26—from tickets and parking to venue policies, hotels, accessibility and what will happen throughout the day.

DateSeptember 26, 2026
Hours10:00 AM–8:00 PM
Location1 Sassafras Pier, Erie, PA 16507
Admission18+

Before You Go

Handle these four things before event day so entry is fast and the rest of your day is focused on the experience.

1. Buy Your Ticket

Tickets are sold through AXS. Current pricing and service fees are shown on the AXS checkout page.

Open official ticket page

2. Bring Valid ID

Guests must be 18 or older and bring a valid government-issued photo ID. Some products or designated areas may be limited to guests 21+.

3. Prepare Your AXS Ticket

Have your mobile ticket ready before reaching the entrance. A printed ticket may also be accepted when issued by the ticket provider.

4. Bring A Card

The Bayfront Convention Center is a cashless venue. Bring a credit, debit, or contactless payment method.

Re-entry

Re-entry is allowed with your event wristband and ticket.

Community Access

Create a free profile before the event to browse vendors, speakers and attendees, join groups and continue conversations after event day.

Create your profile

Your Day At Bak'd On The Bay

The detailed speaker and entertainment lineup will continue to update as appearances are confirmed. This is the dependable event-day structure.

Before 10:00 AM
Arrive, park and prepare your ticketAllow extra time for parking, security screening and ID verification.
10:00 AM
Doors openThe vendor marketplace, community experience and attendee check-in begin.
Throughout The Day
Education StationProfessional speakers, panels, practical education and audience questions.
Throughout The Day
Exploration StationBrowse hand-selected vendors, brands, organizations, products and services.
Throughout The Day
Community & EntertainmentMeet people through the directory and community while DJs and live performers maintain the event energy.
8:00 PM
Event closesContinue connections, messages and community activity through Cannadispo after the venue closes.

Getting There & Parking

The Bayfront Convention Center is located at 1 Sassafras Pier and is accessible from I-79 and I-90 through the Bayfront Parkway.

Free On-Site Parking

Free on-site parking and ADA parking are available. Paid connected garages may also be available; posted rates can change.

Paid Garage Options

The Bayfront Convention Center and Sheraton garages currently publish a daily rate. Rates and availability may change, so check posted signage when you arrive.

Accessible Arrival

ADA parking is available. Guests needing additional accommodations should contact the venue or event team before event day so arrangements can be confirmed.

Venue Rules & Entry Policies

Review these policies before arriving. Security and venue management may deny entry for prohibited items.

Bag Policy

Small bags up to 6 × 8 × 2 inches are permitted. Clear bags up to 12 × 12 × 6 inches are permitted. Medical items and diaper bags are subject to inspection.

Security Screening

  • All guests are subject to security screening.
  • Metal detectors may be used.
  • Bags and purses require additional screening.
  • Bring only essential items to speed up entry.

No Indoor Smoking Or Vaping

No smoking or vaping is permitted inside the Bayfront Convention Center. The outside smoking area is for tobacco use only.

Do Not Bring

  • Weapons, firearms, ammunition or self-defense weapons
  • Outside alcohol, food or beverages unless medically required
  • Drones, laser pointers, selfie sticks or professional recording equipment
  • Large signs, poles, chairs, sealed packages or prohibited containers

Venue policies can change or be expanded for a specific event. Review the official Erie Events security policy before leaving home.

Food, Drinks & Payments

Cashless Venue

All venue purchases require a card or contactless payment method. Do not rely on cash being accepted.

Food & Beverage

Event-specific food and beverage availability will be announced as details are finalized. The Bayfront Convention Center operates its own culinary services.

Outside Food

Outside food and beverages are prohibited unless needed for a documented medical requirement or special need.

Hotels Connected To The Venue

Both preferred waterfront hotels connect directly to the Bayfront Convention Center, allowing guests to reach the venue without driving again.

Sheraton Erie Bayfront Hotel

55 West Bay Road, Erie, PA 16507

Connected to the convention center by an enclosed sky bridge.

View official hotel information

Frequently Asked Questions

How old do I have to be?

Bak'd On The Bay is an 18+ event. Every attendee must be at least 18. Some products or designated areas may require guests to be 21 or older.

What do I need to enter?

Bring your valid event ticket and a valid government-issued photo ID showing that you are at least 18 years old.

Can I leave and return?

Yes. Keep your wristband on and keep your ticket available for re-entry.

Can I smoke or vape inside?

No. Smoking and vaping are prohibited inside the Bayfront Convention Center. The designated outside smoking area is for tobacco use only.

Can I pay with cash?

The venue is cashless. Bring a credit card, debit card or supported contactless payment method.

Where can I find confirmed vendors, speakers and performers?

Browse the Cannadispo directory and published education schedule. Listings will continue to update as participants are approved and announced.

Who do I contact with an accessibility request?

Contact the event team through the Cannadispo contact page or call Erie Events at 814-453-7117 before event day so the request can be coordinated.