Chicago Meetings Industry Update
Chicago’s meeting and event industry is buzzing with excitement this spring, as we welcome new partnerships, new attractions, campus updates, and travel updates.
First, we want to give a special thanks to shows hosted in Chicago this past month, including The Inspired Home Show, 2024 Congress on Healthcare Leadership, and the Adidas Windy City National Qualifier 2024. We were thrilled to host your meetings and events in Chicago!
In celebration of Global Meetings Industry Day, we wish everyone within the industry a happy Global Meetings Industry Day on April 11th! Chicago continues to reaffirm its commitment to fostering collaboration and innovation within the industry by engaging in industry events around the country. Recently, we partnered with Event Leaders Exchange (ELX) as an official member for 2024. We are excited to shape the future of events alongside global leaders and combine efforts to push the events industry forward.
Chicago proudly welcomed its latest attraction, The Flyover at Navy Pier, on March 1st, which offers an opportunity to soar over, under, and around Chicago’s iconic landmarks from thrilling new angles and perspectives.
Adding to Chicago’s culinary diversity, McCormick Place welcomed a new Executive Chef, Gregg Nuguid, ensuring unforgettable dining experiences for attendees and visitors. With a focus on innovation and quality, Chef Gregg’s 30+ years experience in the Philippines, California, and Florida promises to elevate the campus’s food scene. Fun Fact: Chef Gregg has served Michael Jackson, Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher, First Lady Hillary Clinton and many more. Excited to have you!
Travel to Chicago continues to thrive as the weather warms up, with recent stats released by the Chicago Department of Aviation (CDA) showcasing strong and steady growth at Chicago’s airports. Last year, nearly 96 million passengers traveled through O’Hare and Midway, marking significant increases from 2019 and 2022. With forecasts predicting continued growth throughout the summer, Chicago remains a premier destination for travelers worldwide.
Past & Upcoming events
- March 28: Chicago White Sox Home Opener
- April 1: Chicago Cubs Home Opener
- April 26 – 28: C2E2
- April 11 – 14: Expo Chicago
- April 11 – 22: Chicago Latino Film Festival
