(Chicago skyline at sunset, showcasing the city’s iconic architecture along the lakefront. Chicago was named the “Best Big City in the U.S.” for the eighth consecutive year by Condé Nast Traveler readers. Photo courtesy of Choose Chicago.)
From Vinitaly USA’s debut and Formnext’s return to Chicago’s “Best Big City” title and electric vehicle showcases, Chicago’s dynamic landscape fuels its status as a hub for business, tourism, and culture
by Exhibit City News Staff
Form next Chicago 2025 Postponed Due to Scheduling Conflict with Major 3D Printing Shows
Mesago Messe Frankfurt and The Association for Manufacturing Technology have postponed the inaugural Formnext Chicago, originally set for April 8–10, 2025, at McCormick Place. Citing scheduling conflicts with Detroit’s RAPID + TCT and Chicago’s AMUG conference, organizers noted the difficulty for exhibitors in committing to multiple major shows. Formnext’s U.S. debut remains planned for future years as organizers align strategies to support additive manufacturing’s growth in North America.
Chicago Boat Show Relocates to Rosemont After 92 Years at McCormick Place
For the first time in 92 years, the Chicago Boat Show will relocate to the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont from January 8–12, 2025. The decision, driven by market analysis and exhibitor feedback, positions the show to reach a broader audience across the Chicagoland area. With more than 115 exhibitors and 400 boats, the annual event remains one of the largest consumer boat shows in the country, showcasing vessels from Illinois, Indiana, Michigan, and Wisconsin.
Vinitaly USA Launches First Italian Wine Trade Show in Chicago
On October 20–21, 2024, Vinitaly USA made its debut at Chicago’s Navy Pier, marking the first-ever U.S. event by Veronafiere and Fiere Italiane, dedicated to Italian wines. With over 230 companies, 1,650 labels, and prominent attendees including Italy’s Agriculture Minister Francesco Lollobrigida and Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker, the show celebrated Italian wine excellence in the U.S. Midwest, which saw a 43 percent increase in Italian wine market share this year.
Chicago Drives Electric Wraps Up Third Annual EV Test Drive Event, Expands for 2025 Auto Show
The Chicago Automobile Trade Association concluded its third annual Chicago Drives Electric event, offering over 6,100 EV experiences and showcasing 40 models from top brands. Launched in 2022 to promote electric vehicle awareness, the event saw a growing interest in EV ownership, with nearly 60 percent of attendees likely to consider purchasing an EV. Chicago Drives Electric will return to McCormick Place at the Chicago Auto Show, February 8–17, 2025, with an indoor EV test track and expanded educational programming.
Pinball Expo Marks 40 Years with Tournaments, Seminars, and Retro Gaming in Chicago Suburbs
Celebrating four decades, the 40th annual Pinball Expo took place October 16–19 at the Renaissance Schaumburg Convention Center. Enthusiasts enjoyed free play on over 400 pinball machines, retro gaming tournaments, and exclusive seminars. Attendees also toured Stern Pinball’s facility, witnessing the creation of Chicago’s famous pinball machines. Founded by Robert Berk, the Expo drew fans from around the world to the birthplace of pinball, solidifying its legacy in the Chicagoland area.
New Survey Shows Chicago’s Small Arts Sector Thriving, Boosting Local Culture and Economy
The Gaylord and Dorothy Donnelley Foundation’s (GDDF) 2024 Chicago Small Arts Sector Survey, conducted from August to September, highlights the resilience and impact of small arts organizations post-COVID. Surveying 77 organizations with annual budgets under $1 million, the report shows over 4,500 artists employed and more than 1,800 events presented annually. With 95 percent working with emerging talent and over half of programming featuring new or regional works, these organizations enrich Chicago’s cultural landscape across 62 of the city’s 77 community areas.
Chicago Claims “Best Big City” Title for 8th Year in a Row in Condé Nast Traveler’s Readers’ Choice Awards
Readers of Condé Nast Traveler have named Chicago the best big city in the U.S. for the eighth consecutive year. Announced October 1, the award reflects the city’s celebrated architecture, thriving food and arts scenes, and hospitality. The accolade follows a busy summer for Chicago tourism, with record hotel demand fueled by events like Lollapalooza, the NASCAR Chicago Street Race, and major conventions. Mayor Brandon Johnson and Governor J.B. Pritzker praised the city’s tourism and hospitality sectors for contributing to the ongoing success of Chicago’s global reputation.
