McCormick Place

09/17/2026

🍿❤️ A Chicago classic, right here on campus!

If you know Chicago, you know Garrett Popcorn Shops. 🌆🍿 From the iconic Garrett Mix to its specialty flavors, this Chicago staple has been satisfying popcorn cravings for generations.

As one of our valued F&B partners, you can find Garrett’s specialty flavors at Popcorn Alley inside Wintrust Arena or pick up select favorites right from the shelves at some of our markets throughout McCormick Place. 👀

Heading to a game? Attending an event? Just need a little something to snack on? There’s always a reason to grab a bag. 😋🍿

Chicago loves popcorn. And what's more Chicago than Garrett's? ❤️🌆

09/17/2026

“Illinois is the heart of where manufacturing is.”

International Manufacturing Technology Show 2026 brought that spirit to life at McCormick Place, showcasing the innovation, technology, and skilled talent driving manufacturing forward.

We were proud to welcome Governor JB Pritzker to McCormick Place alongside MPEA President & CEO Larita Clark and MPEA Board Member Sherman Wright. Together, they experienced the energy of IMTS firsthand and heard more about the people, ideas, and technologies shaping the future of manufacturing in Illinois and around the world.

For 54 years, IMTS has called McCormick Place home, bringing the global manufacturing community together in Chicago and putting Illinois’ talent, innovation, and industry on the world stage.

Thank you to IMTS and AMT for continuing to bring the manufacturing community together and for giving Chicago and Illinois’ skilled workforce a global platform.

09/14/2026

Welcome to Opening Day at IMTS 2026!

Today marks the start of an incredible week of innovation, collaboration, and discovery as the global manufacturing community comes together at International Manufacturing Technology Show—IMTS.

As we cut the ribbon and officially open the doors, we celebrate the people, technologies, and ideas shaping the future of manufacturing. From advanced automation and robotics to cutting-edge machining and digital technologies, IMTS brings the industry together to turn possibilities into reality.

MPEA | McCormick Place is proud to once again welcome exhibitors, attendees, industry leaders, innovators, and manufacturing professionals from across the globe.

Here’s to an incredible week at McCormick Place and an unforgettable IMTS 2026!

09/12/2026

We’re proud to partner with organizations like UNITE HERE Chicago Hospitality Institute (UHCHI), whose Chef de Partie Apprenticeship program is creating meaningful pathways into the hospitality industry.

On Thursday, we celebrated Cohort 22 at UHCHI’s Apprentice Showcase, that took place in the McCormick Place Lakeside Center Kitchen. This showcase marks the final completed cohort of the year and celebrates the hard work, growth, and culinary talent these apprentices have developed throughout the program.

What makes UHCHI’s approach especially impactful is that it goes beyond culinary training. Apprentices receive comprehensive support, including transportation assistance, job placement, financial literacy resources, and more. By helping remove barriers, UHCHI empowers apprentices to focus on developing their skills and building successful careers in some of the best kitchens around.

Through our partnership, these apprentices may also be seen putting their skills to work on campus after completing the program.

Programs like this make our entire industry stronger by developing skilled professionals who bring passion, confidence, and expertise to every event.

Thank you to UHCHI for investing in the future of hospitality and helping create new opportunities for the next generation of culinary professionals!

09/04/2026

🍰✨🍓 Why stop at one? Indulge in an extra dessert! 🍫🧁

Today is National Eat an Extra Dessert Day, and we're taking it as our sign to go back for seconds. 👀🍰🍪

With Oak View Group Hospitality at McCormick Place, our desserts taste as good as they look—and there’s always something worth saving room for. 🍨✨

🤎 Bronzeville Butter Cake 🍓
Topped with whipped cream and roasted strawberry jam, this decadent favorite is often featured at catered events across campus.

So next time you're attending an event at McCormick Place, don't just save room for dessert…

Save room for an extra one. 😉🍰🍫

09/01/2026

Welcome to September at McCormick Place!

From major industry gatherings to celebrations of community, we look forward to hosting visitors from across the country and around the world this September, with events including:

• IMTS 2026: The International Manufacturing Technology Show
• National Association of Elevator Contractors 2026 Convention
• Elim Romanian Convention 2026

…and more!

Note: This post lists events that have elected to be publicly listed on the McCormick Place Convention Center online events calendar; it does not include every convention center event.

08/21/2026

🍽️ Whatever you’re craving, there’s an option waiting for you. 👀

The West Food Court at McCormick Place brings a variety of flavors and cuisines together in one convenient spot.

🍔 Le Brea
🥪 American Grill
🍝 Little Italy
✨ Evelyn’s
🌏 Pacific Rim

Whether you’re looking for a quick bite between sessions or ready to switch up your usual order, there’s plenty to explore—from sandwiches and salads to sushi, Mexican-inspired favorites, and more. 🌮🍣🥗

📍 West Building Food Court

Your next favorite bite might be closer than you think. 😉

08/19/2026

Did you know some of Chicago's most iconic neighborhoods are just a quick bus ride from McCormick Place? 🚍

Here are just a few easy, transit-friendly ideas:
🏮 Chinatown – Incredible eats, unique shops, and vibrant culture.
🏙️ The Loop – Chicago's downtown filled with architecture, parks, shopping, and theaters.
🌆 South Loop – Trendy restaurants, local breweries, and beautiful lakefront views.
🦕 Museum Campus – Home to world-class museums and postcard-worthy skyline views.
🌳 Hyde Park – Historic streets, cultural landmarks, bookstores, and neighborhood cafés.

Whether you've got an afternoon between meetings or an extra day to explore, it's easy to see more of Chicago, no car required!

08/17/2026

We're proud to celebrate McCormick Place’s Platinum-level Events Industry Council certification, recognizing our ongoing commitment to sustainable event practices. Through collaboration with our Sustainability team, event organizers, and partners, we continue to measure our impact and drive meaningful progress toward a more sustainable future!

♻️ July 2026, our sustainability efforts achieved the following:

• 792.25 lbs. of fruits and vegetables harvested from Rooftop Garden
• 22.83 tons of wood recycled
• Rescued 2 high pallets worth of promo swag from ASI

08/14/2026

🍖🔥 Partner Spotlight: Robinson’s Ribs

Behind every great bite is a story.

We’re proud to partner with Robinson's No. 1 Ribs - Union Station, a Chicago-area favorite built on family tradition, generations of flavor, and a legendary sauce recipe passed down through the Robinson family.

From backyard barbecues to becoming a Ribfest champion, Robinson’s Ribs brings a true taste of history to the table. 🤝

Their commitment to craftsmanship and authentic flavors makes them a valued part of our growing network of local food & beverage partners at McCormick Place.

A recipe with roots. A flavor worth sharing. 🍖✨

08/13/2026

We are thrilled to announce that Chris Konecki has been named General Manager of McCormick Place.

Following a national search conducted in partnership with SearchWide Global, Chris was selected from a highly competitive field of candidates from across the meetings, hospitality and venue management industries.

Chris began his career with McCormick Place and spent 16 years helping deliver successful events on our campus before going on to leadership roles as a customer producing the Chicago Auto Show.

Following his time at McCormick Place, Chris gained valuable insight into industry and national convention center best practices and the evolving expectations of event organizers. Most recently, he served as Executive Vice President & Director of Auto Shows for the Chicago Automobile Trade Association, where he helped lead one of nation’s premier events while working closely with exhibitors, sponsors, contractors, labor partners and venue operators.

His unique experience gives him a deep understanding of convention center operations, in addition to firsthand appreciation for what meeting planners, exhibitors and event organizers need from their venue partners.

We're excited to welcome Chris back to McCormick Place and look forward to the next chapter of growth, innovation and customer service under his leadership.

08/10/2026

☕✨ Need a morning pick-me-up?

Start your day at Lakeside East Café!

Grab your coffee, enjoy a quick bite, and fuel up before your next session. 🥐☕

Whether you’re arriving early or need a quick break between meetings, it’s an easy stop to keep your day moving.

Coffee first. Then conquer the show floor. 🙌

08/07/2026

🍺🌱 Cheers to International B**r Day!

We’re raising a glass to the McCormick Place Golden Ale — a special collaboration with Moody Tongue Brewing Company featuring hops grown right from our rooftop garden.

From rooftop harvest to refreshing pour, this brew brings together sustainability, local collaboration, and the flavors of McCormick Place.

Freshly grown. Locally crafted. Uniquely Chicago.

Would you try a b**r made with rooftop-grown hops? 👇

**rDay **r

08/06/2026

August brings plenty to celebrate at McCormick Place! 🎉

This month's newsletter highlights:
• Platinum certification from the Events Industry Council
• An upcoming partner showcase with Choose Chicago
• Holiday event opportunities from the Entertainment Division..and more!

Stay connected with the latest campus news, industry insights, and exciting updates from McCormick Place.

📧 Join our newsletter to stay up to date: https://mccormickplace.com/newsletter
🔗 Read this month's newsletter: https://conta.cc/4ye82JV

08/05/2026

The Events Industry Council announced today that McCormick Place has achieved Platinum Level Certification to EIC’s Sustainable Event Standards, advancing from last year’s Gold Level Certification to earn the program's highest distinction.

The certification recognizes McCormick Place's leadership in integrating environmental stewardship and social responsibility throughout its operations while helping event organizers deliver more sustainable events. ♻️

Learn more:

North America's largest convention center earns EIC's highest sustainability distinction: Platinum 🏆