(Attendees enjoy interactive driving simulations at the Chicago Auto Show, held at McCormick Place. The event showcases nearly 1,000 vehicles and features attractions like test drives, off-road courses, and more. Photo courtesy Chicago Auto Show.)
From exciting festivals and tradeshows to major redevelopments, Chicago kicks off 2025 with significant milestones shaping its future
by Exhibit City News Staff
Chicago begins 2025 with a flurry of activity, blending iconic events, transformative developments, and industry-leading trade shows. From Sammy Sosa’s return at the Cubs Convention to ambitious redevelopment projects like the $7 billion United Center plan, the city remains a hub for innovation, culture, and economic growth. February promises a packed calendar with tradeshows, festivals, and advancements shaping the year ahead.
Green Day to Headline 2025 BottleRock Napa Valley Festival
Legendary pop-rock band Green Day will headline the 2025 BottleRock Napa Valley music festival, set for May 23–25 at the Napa Valley Expo. Joining them are Top 40 star Justin Timberlake and folk-pop artist Noah Kahan. Over 80 acts, including Ice Cube, Sublime, and Cage the Elephant, are slated to perform during the Memorial Day weekend event. Known for its blend of music, wine, and culinary delights, BottleRock remains a popular destination festival. For tickets and information, visit BottleRockNapaValley.com.
Chicago Auto Show Returns to McCormick Place This February
The Chicago Auto Show, the nation’s largest event of its kind, will run from Feb. 8–17, 2025, at McCormick Place. Celebrating its 117th edition, this year’s show features nearly 1,000 vehicles, including electric, luxury, and concept cars from top manufacturers like Ford, Jeep, and BMW.
Interactive attractions include thrilling test tracks, outdoor test drives, and off-road courses. Additional highlights include the “First Look for Charity” event, Automotive Career Day, and Friday Night Flights Craft Beer Tasting.
Tickets start at $17 for adults and are available online or at the venue. For details, visit the Chicago Auto Show website.
Independent College Bookstore Association (ICBA) Retail Conference & PRIMEtime: Taking place February 2–7, 2025, at the Sheraton Grand Chicago Riverwalk, this key event is tailored for collegiate retail professionals, focusing on innovations in campus store operations and retail trends. Link.
Chicago Dental Society (CDS) Midwinter Meeting: Scheduled for February 20–22, 2025, at McCormick Place, this premier gathering for dental professionals features 450 exhibitors and offers educational sessions for over 21,000 attendees. Link.
LMT Lab Day Chicago: Running February 20–22, 2025, at the Hyatt Regency Chicago, this is the largest dental lab event in the U.S., offering networking opportunities, technical education, and product showcases for 4,600 attendees and 297 exhibitors. Link.
United Center $7 Billion Redevelopment Moves Forward
The Chicago Plan Commission approved the $7 billion “1901 Project” to revitalize the United Center area with housing, retail, entertainment, and a public plaza. Spanning 10-15 years, the project is expected to create over 63,000 construction jobs and 12,000 permanent roles. Phase one will feature a 6,000-seat music hall, a hotel, and a public plaza, slated for completion in two years. Funded privately by the Chicago Bulls and Blackhawks owners, the project awaits further approval from the city’s Zoning Committee.
Sammy Sosa Joins Cubs Convention as Fans Welcome Offseason Moves
The 2025 Cubs Convention at the Sheraton Grand Chicago drew large crowds as fans gathered to celebrate the team and prepare for the new season. Sammy Sosa made his first convention appearance after reconciling with the organization, while All-Star outfielder Kyle Tucker, a major offseason addition, was introduced.
Attendees arrived early, with some lining up before dawn, for meet-and-greets, trading card exchanges, and other fan activities. Proceeds from the event supported Cubs Charities, which funds youth sports and educational programs.
Bally’s Requests 12-Year Tax Break for $1.7B Chicago Casino
Bally’s has proposed a 12-year property tax reduction for its $1.7 billion casino and hotel project in Chicago’s River West neighborhood. The request seeks to lower the tax rate from 25% to 10%, reverting to the commercial rate after 12 years, in hopes of securing financial viability and meeting revenue targets.
The move follows underwhelming performance at Bally’s temporary casino at the Medinah Temple, which generated only $16 million in city receipts in 2024—far below the $35 million forecast. Proponents argue that incentives are essential for creating jobs and stimulating investment, but critics worry the tax break could shift burdens onto residents and other businesses.
The proposal faces resistance within Chicago’s City Council, as financial concerns, including the city’s downgraded credit rating, heighten scrutiny of the plan.
