CONTENTS 10 REASONS TO MEET EXPLORE CHOOSE CHICAGO IS HERE TO HELP 10 REASONS TO ATTEND CONVENTION FACILITIES WHAT’S NEW FEATURED PARTNERS FESTIVALS & EVENTS INTERNATIONAL AIRPORTS RESOURCES ONLY IN CHICAGO SPOTLIGHTS AFTER-HOURS GROUP TOURS DINING IN CHICAGO’S SPECIAL NEIGHBORHOODS EVENT VENUES MEET WELL Chicago Blues Festival Millennium Park June A genre with deep Chicago roots, blues is the star of this outdoor summer festival that attracts some of the music industry’s biggest names. Chicago Pride Fest & Parade Northalsted | June This joyful celebration of LGBTQ+ community and culture takes place in the nation’s oldest official gay neighborhood. LEFT TO RIGHT: ADAM ALEXANDER PHOTOGRAPHY; CHARLES REAGAN NASCAR Chicago Street Race Loop | July 1 – 2 For the first time in its 75-year history, NASCAR will hold a street race. The 2.2-mile course will zoom past Chicago landmarks, including Buckingham Fountain and the Field Museum. Chosen Few Picnic & Festival Jackson Park | July This celebration of house music, held in scenic Jackson Park, has been drawing legendary DJs and fans for more than 30 years. Silver Room Sound System Block Party Oakwood Beach July This family-friendly summer celebration features multiple live music stages, a food court, a design pavilion, and outdoor games. Windy City Smokeout United Center July 13 – 16 It’s all about beer, barbecue, and country music at this outdoor summer festival. Fiesta Del Sol Pilsen July – August This family-friendly festival has been celebrating Mexican culture and music in the Pilsen neighborhood for 50 years. Lollapalooza Grant Park and select neighborhoods Aug. 3 – 6 This iconic music festival takes over the lakefront’s Grant Park, and features local talent and top acts from genres of music around the globe.
Chicago Meeting Professionals Guide 2023: Page 20
