#1 Trade Show & Convention
Founded in 1901, it is the United States’ largest and longest-running auto show. Showcasing some 1,000 vehicles, the event spans 1.3 million square feet of McCormick Place. The popular First Look for Charity bash, held on the eve of the show's opening, draws 10,000 guests. Other gatherings include the “Women Driving Excellence” event, which celebrates female leaders in business and philanthropy. Next: February 13-21, 2016
#2 Trade Show & Convention
The show for food-service professionals draws 63,000 attendees and features more than 2,000 exhibitors. In 2015, the event saw a three percent rise in registration in its key buyer category. Exhibit space also grew by more than eight percent. The event is co-located with the Beverage Alcohol for Restaurants (or B.A.R.) show, which also saw increased registration this year. The event draws restaurant-industry icons including celebrity chefs; it also inspires off-site events across the city. Next: May 21-24, 2016
#3 Trade Show & Convention
Held annually at McCormick Place, the show comprises four expos with distinct themes such as “Clean, Contain, and Sustain.” In 2015, the event featured more than 2,115 exhibitors, including 442 that were new. It also saw increased registration from buyers. Next year’s expo will get new branding and graphics. Next: March 5-8, 2016
#4 Trade Show & Convention
Launched in 2010, the celebration of comics, anime, and pop culture has seen steadily rising attendance. In 2015, the event drew 71,000 guests to McCormick Place, an increase from 2014's 67,000 fans. Next: March 18-20, 2016
Correction: The original version of this story listed the incorrect attendance numbers.
#5 Trade Show & Convention
Some 65,000 beauty-industry pros flocked to the sprawling trade show in 2015. Produced by Cosmetologists Chicago, the event saw around 450 exhibitors, and one company—Lash Now—hired the Backstreet Boys to perform at its booth. Other exhibitors included Paul Mitchell, Aveda, and Redken. New this year, the event had two education and entertainment stages. Next: March 12-14, 2016
#6 Trade Show & Convention (up from #7)
Sponsored by the National Confectioners Association, the show had some 630 exhibitors in 2015, and 121 were first-time exhibitors. According to organizers, booth space was maxed out for the popular expo, and 200 companies were on the exhibitor waiting list. Around 16,000 industry pros attended, and the show was highlighted on the Today show. The 2016 event will add a new exhibit hall with a second education theater, 150 more exhibitors, a networking lounge, and an Innovation Alley featuring confectionery and snack start-ups. Next: May 24-26, 2016
#7 Trade Show & Convention
In late November, the meeting and expo will celebrate the society’s 100-year anniversary. Typical attendance at the show is 50,000; some 700 exhibitors display new technology on the show floor. Next: November 29-December 4, 2015
#8 Trade Show & Convention (up from #10)
Billed as the largest technology conference in the Midwest, the event saw approximately 13,000 attendees in 2015. Attractions included everything from a hackathon to a tech fashion show, and some 125 speakers presented on four stages at the Merchandise Mart. T-Mobile was the new presenting sponsor, and the event also has a new C.E.O., Katy Lynch. Next: June 2016
#9 Trade Show & Convention
In 2015, two of Chicago’s biggest winter boat shows—the Chicago Boat, Sports & R.V. Show, and Strictly Sail Chicago—joined forces. The new, combined event was held at McCormick Place. It offered some 500 exhibitors and had more than 47,000 attendees. There were plenty of family-friendly activities, including indoor boating and a fishing pond for kids. Next: January 14-18, 2016
