(Wrigley Field will host the 2027 Major League Baseball All-Star Game, marking the first time in decades the event will be held at the historic ballpark. Image by Nairn McWilliams, used under CC BY-SA 2.0 license. View original.)
Fan Expo and Lollapalooza draw major crowds as the city gears up for fall shows in manufacturing, logistics, veterinary care, and infrastructure
As summer winds down, Chicago’s events calendar shows no signs of slowing. August brought record attendance to Fan Expo and Lollapalooza, major developments in venue projects, and fierce competition at the PWX Roadeo. September picks up the pace with national tradeshows in manufacturing, logistics, veterinary care, and infrastructure.
September Tradeshows Spotlight Manufacturing, Veterinary Care, and Clean Water Innovation
Chicago’s fall tradeshow season kicks off with FABTECH International (September 8–11, McCormick Place), North America’s largest metal forming, fabricating, welding, and finishing event. The show will draw more than 40,000 professionals and 1,500 exhibitors across manufacturing sectors.
On the same dates, Parcel Forum returns to the Renaissance Schaumburg Convention Center with 2,000 logistics and fulfillment professionals exploring packaging, shipping, and last-mile strategy.
American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) runs September 11–13 at the Chicago Marriott Downtown, bringing together veterinarians and practice managers from across the country for clinical education, business strategy, and networking.
National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA) 2025 (September 12–15, McCormick Place) closes the stretch with 10,000 electrical contractors and 300 exhibitors showcasing tools, tech, and safety solutions for electrical construction and energy infrastructure.
Fan Expo Chicago Draws 75,000 Fans to Rosemont
Fan Expo Chicago attracted more than 75,000 attendees August 15–17 at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont—a record for the Chicagoland area. Artist Alley stood out with appearances from comic legends such as Simon Bisley, Arthur Suydam, Carl Potts, Ralph “Rags” Morales, and John Giang, drawing crowds for sketches, signings, and fan interactions. The annual pop culture event continues to be a major draw for the region’s conventions calendar.
PWX 2025 Roadeo Crowns National Champion at Soldier Field
The American Public Works Association (APWA) hosted its 8th Annual National Equipment Roadeo on August 18 at Soldier Field during the 2025 Public Works Expo (PWX). Eighty-two equipment operators from across the country competed in four timed, Chicago-themed challenges designed to test precision, safety, and operating skill. Joe Eades of Louisville’s Metropolitan Sewer District won his third consecutive overall title after top performances in both the mini excavator and backhoe events. The competition was organized by the APWA Chicago Metro Chapter and sponsored by Bobcat, Caterpillar, JCB, and United Rentals.
Gary Approves Matching Funds for Lake County Convention Center
The Gary City Council advanced an ordinance this month to match funding for the development of the Lake County Convention Center, located just 30 miles from downtown Chicago. The new venue aims to serve as a competitive regional alternative for mid-size tradeshows and meetings, offering lower-cost space and expanded meeting capacity outside of the Chicago core.
Lollapalooza Chicago Breaks Records with 400,000 Attendees at Grant Park
Lollapalooza Chicago drew more than 115,000 fans per day across four days this August, pushing total attendance above 400,000. This marked a new record for the Grant Park event. The festival continues to be one of the city’s largest summer draws, bolstering local tourism, hospitality, and retail activity during its run. Organizers say strong interest in food, accessibility, and cultural diversity remain key factors in the event’s growing success.
Virgin Hotels Chicago Sells for $77.4 Million, Will Retain Brand Management
Virgin Hotels Chicago, the brand’s flagship property, was sold in late June for $77.4 million to Accelerated Assets. Located in the historic Old Dearborn Bank building, the 26-story hotel debuted in 2015 following a $50 million renovation by Lionstone Development and Virgin Hotels. Despite the ownership change, the property will remain under Virgin Hotels management. The sale follows other recent transactions in the city, including the Claridge House and the Talbott Hotel.
Wrigley Field to Host 2027 MLB All-Star Game
Major League Baseball has selected Wrigley Field as the host of the 2027 All-Star Game, marking the first time in decades the event will be held at the iconic ballpark. Local officials say the weeklong festivities will provide a major boost to Chicago’s hospitality sector, with tens of thousands of visitors expected to drive hotel bookings, restaurant traffic, and retail sales citywide. The Illinois Hotel & Lodging Association called it a “home run” for tourism and a key opportunity to showcase the city’s award-winning hospitality on a global stage.
Bears Stadium Plans Face Legislative Hurdles This Fall
The Chicago Bears’ proposed domed stadium in Arlington Heights could break ground by year’s end—if lawmakers approve a critical property tax break in the October veto session. Team officials are pushing legislation that would ease the path for development on the 326-acre site, citing job creation and regional economic impact. But city legislators are reportedly seeking additional concessions from the team, including funding for public schools, transit, and Soldier Field maintenance.
Universal Horror Unleashed to Open Year-Round Attraction in Chicago by 2027
Universal Destinations & Experiences has announced plans to open Universal Horror Unleashed: Chicago, a permanent, immersive horror attraction at 700 W. Chicago Ave., across from the future Bally’s Casino. Slated to open in 2027, the venue will feature themed bars, haunted mazes, retail, and dining. It’s the second location for the new concept, following Las Vegas. City officials say the project will create 400 permanent jobs and generate over $1 billion in local economic impact. Construction is expected to begin in 2026 following permitting and design finalization.
