#1 Trade Show & Convention
The nation’s largest auto show hosted its 108th edition in 2016. This year’s event featured the global debut of more than 20 vehicles, as well as three indoor test tracks and a large array of concept cars. Though they don't release official numbers, organizers reported a 10 percent increase in attendance this year. Next: February 10-20, 2017
#2 Trade Show & Convention
The show is known as the world’s largest annual gathering for restaurant, lodging, and food-service pros—and this year, the event grew even larger. It drew more than 67,000 registrants (as opposed to 63,000 last year), and its footprint grew by 7 percent. The event is co-located with the Beverage Alcohol for Restaurants (or B.A.R.) show, which expanded with additional programming this year. The event draws restaurant-industry icons including celebrity chefs; it also inspires off-site events across the city. Next: May 20-23, 2017
#3 Trade Show & Convention
The 2016 show featured an updated look driven by new branding and graphics. Famous faces from chef Emeril Lagasse to country singer-turned-food-personality Trisha Yearwood appeared at the expo, which sold out more than 10 weeks in advance. This year’s show displayed housewares from some 2,100 exhibitors. The new “Discover Design” expo had 200 exhibitors. Next: March 18-21, 2017
#4 Trade Show & Convention
Focused on comics, anime, and other types of pop culture, the event began in 2010. This year, it drew 72,500 fans throughout the weekend and had a trade-show floor packed with 470 exhibitors. Organizers reported some 712 million media impressions. Next: April 21-23, 2017
#5 Trade Show & Convention
The 94th annual show drew more than 70,000 salon professionals. More than 400 companies displayed new products in hair care, nail care, and skin care. There were also continuous trend presentations on three runways. Next: March 25-27, 2017
#6 Trade Show & Convention
Nearly 17,000 industry pros attended this year’s expo, which offers four acres of cookies, candies, savory snacks, and chocolates. There were more than 750 exhibitors this year, and there was a 22 percent increase in exhibit space. Attendees prowl the show to learn about trends, which this year included unusual flavor pairings like mangoes and chocolate. Next: May 23-25, 2017
#7 Trade Show & Convention
The 101st annual gathering returned to McCormick Place in 2016. The theme was “Innovation Is the Key to Our Future,” and the event showcased the newest advances in radiology. The trade-show floor featured 659 exhibits, and organizers reported 51,922 registrants, including 1,372 guests who attended virtually. Next: November 27-December 2, 2016
#8 Trade Show & Convention
Founded in Chicago in 2011, the event has since grown to include conferences in eight North American cities including Miami and Toronto. This year, new C.E.O. Amanda Signorelli oversaw the Chicago festival and focused on adding more talks and panels. Programming covered topics such as technical skills, hiring, and drones. Next: Summer 2017
#9 Trade Show & Convention
Attendance was up at this year’s show, which was held at McCormick Place in January. It showcased boats and R.V.s, and had activities ranging from free sailing lessons to an R.V. buyers' seminar. Some 47,359 guests attended, a slight increase from 2015. Next: January 11-15, 2017Â
