So this is going to be my first time at QuakeCon. I reeealy want to attend John Carmack's Keynote.
Any idea how early I should get there?
And generally how long the lines are?
Is there a badge system? Is it when I get there or do I have to see about it online?
I'm not going to be there for the Lan event just the keynote.

Have not been to Quakecon but lots of other conventions. If there is something you really want to see, get to the room early. Bring a book or something to pass time if you have to. Most people rush in near the start time, so it can look empty when you first pass by. Then you come back 5 minutes later and all the seats are filled.

http://www.quakecon.org/planning/faq/

As for everything else you want to see, plan your route. It will take 3 to 4 times longer than you think to walk from one place to another due to crowds and distractions. Kind of like playing TES in a way.