Chicago Meetings Industry Update
First, we want to give a special thank you to the shows hosted in Chicago in July, including Destinations International 2025 Annual Convention, IFT FIRST 2025, ELX 2025 Annual Congress, 2025 NIKE Tournament of Champions, National Medical Association 2025 Annual Convention & Scientific Assembly, ASI 2025 Chicago, NBA 2025 National Convention – 100th Anniversary, ADLM 2025, and more. Thank you for choosing Chicago, where we are never done and never outdone!
Updates
The full lineup to the Chicago Gourmet was officially announced, with the event returning September 25–28 with the theme “Step Up To The Plate,” celebrating the shared energy of food and sports. The festival will feature all-star chefs, sports-inspired events, and summer preview dinners leading up to the big weekend. Festivities kick off with the fan-favorite Tacos & Tequila on September 25, hosted by chefs Rick Bayless and Marcos Carbajal, featuring top local talent, premium tequila, live entertainment, and more.
SPF Chicago is now offering Loaf Lounge’s viral Chocolate Cake—made famous by The Bear—as a catering option for events and celebrations. It can be paired with SPF’s curated catering packages or ordered as a standalone centerpiece. Located in Lincoln Park, SPF blends indoor pickleball, events, and chef-driven hospitality, now with a sweet pop culture twist.
Park Hyatt Chicago was named the #1 Best Hotel in Chicago in Travel + Leisure’s 2025 World’s Best Awards. This recognition highlights the hotel’s dedication to thoughtful experiences, personalized service, and understated luxury. Located in the heart of the city, Park Hyatt offers guests a serene escape with standout amenities like NoMI Spa and NoMI Kitchen, Lounge & Garden. The honor reflects the passion of the hotel’s team and their commitment to creating lasting, meaningful stays.
Bally’s Chicago is debuting a bold new elevated live entertainment stage this summer, bringing high-energy performances to the heart of the casino. The floating stage offers 360-degree views across all three floors and features top-notch lighting and sound. A live music series will run Thursdays through Saturday evenings, showcasing popular local bands like The Grady Experience, iPop, and The Reckoning. Guests can enjoy the shows alongside late-night bites, signature cocktails, and more. This launch marks the first of many exciting enhancements coming to Bally’s Chicago.
CardVault by Tom Brady is opening a new store in Chicago on Friday, August 1, just steps from Wrigley Field. The shop will feature a curated selection of sports cards, trading cards, and memorabilia from top brands like Topps, Panini, and Pokémon. Behind its signature vault door, fans will find authenticated, autographed items including jerseys and helmets. The store will also offer exclusive Chicago-themed CardVault merchandise, including hats, apparel, and accessories for collectors and sports fans alike.
Trino, a new steakhouse from Chef Stephen Sandoval and Partner Oscar Sotelo, opens August 6 in Chicago’s West Loop. Inspired by Sandoval’s roots in northern Mexico and Galicia, Trino reimagines the classic steakhouse with globally influenced flavors—think caviar with chicharrón, crab tostadas, and inventive potato dishes. The space also includes a hidden speakeasy-style bar and soulful interiors designed by Aida Napoles. With its personal roots and elevated hospitality, Trino is poised to be a standout addition to Chicago’s dining scene.
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Current/Upcoming Events
July 31 – August 3: Lollapalooza
Through August 16: Grant Park Music Festival
August 1-2: Jeff Fest
August 6: Taste of Andersonville
August 7: 2025 Chicago Ducky Derby
August 8: Bronzeville Summer Night 2/3
August 9: Taste of Chicago (Albany Park)
August 9: Bud Billiken Parade
August 9-10: Northalsted Market Days
August 14-18: XL Film Festival
August 16-17: Chicago Air & Water Show
August 22-23: Chicago House Music Fest & Conference
August 22-24: Taste of Greektown
August 22-24: Lakeview Taco Fest
August 23-24: Bulls Fest
August 25: “Honoring the Brotherhood” 100th Anniversary of the Brotherhood of Sleeping Car Porters
August 28-31: Chicago Jazz Festival
August 30-31: 10th Annual WingOut Chicago
