Chicago, IL Events

Empowering Visionary Curriculum Leadership Cohort

Tue, Feb 24, 2026 – Tue, May 19, 2026

Cohort program for curriculum leadership with single day attendance option. Held at 10701 S. Kilpatrick Ave, Oak Lawn, IL.

David Byrne's Theater of the Mind

Tue, Mar 17, 2026 – Sun, May 31, 2026

Experience David Byrne’s innovative theatrical installation 'Theater of the Mind' in River North, Chicago, running until May 31, 2026. This immersive event is designed for adult professionals interested in creative industries, arts, and experiential design, providing a unique setting for networking and industry learning.

JOB - A Big Tech Company Leave Event

Thu, Apr 9, 2026 – Sun, Jun 14, 2026

Explore the case of Jane, an employee at a big tech company who has been placed on leave after video observations. This event is ideal for professionals in the tech industry and HR sectors to discuss workplace policies, employee rights, and career challenges in a corporate environment.

Chicago Humanities Festival 2026

Sat, Apr 18, 2026 – Sun, May 17, 2026

Discover a diverse range of thought-provoking discussions and performances at the Chicago Humanities Festival, featuring leading artists, authors, and visionaries from around the globe. Ideal for professionals interested in culture, arts, and intellectual networking.

TimeLine Theatre Company New Home Opening

Fri, May 1, 2026 – Sun, May 31, 2026

TimeLine Theatre Company will open its new permanent home in Uptown Chicago in May 2026. The opening will include sneak previews, open houses, and community events, offering opportunities for professional networking and engagement in the arts and cultural sector.

5th Annual Lincoln Park Mayfest

Fri, May 15, 2026 – Sun, May 17, 2026

Lincoln Park Mayfest is a lively neighborhood celebration featuring local bands, artisans, and cuisine. While primarily a community festival with entertainment and art vendors, it does not explicitly focus on professional networking or career advancement for adults.

National Restaurant Association Show

Sat, May 16, 2026 – Tue, May 19, 2026

This influential hospitality event serves as a launchpad for food-tech innovations and kitchen equipment introductions. Restaurateurs, chefs, and F&B leaders network across every food service industry sector, focusing increasingly on front-of-house automation and AI-driven consumer insights reshaping the dining experience.

SWP Conference Chicago 2026

Mon, May 18, 2026 – Wed, May 20, 2026

Join expert speakers for two or three powerful days of insights, strategy, and real-world solutions across 10 dynamic tracks. This conference is the must-attend event for strategic workforce planners and HR leaders, featuring leading experts and practitioners sharing bold ideas, real-world case studies, and practical solutions to tackle workforce challenges and drive success. Network with industry leaders from top brands and gain valuable knowledge to advance your career.

National Restaurant Association Show

Mon, May 18, 2026 – Thu, May 21, 2026

A key event for founders in food, beverage, and restaurant-tech brands. Gain access to thousands of restaurant operators and distributors, operator-led education tracks, and award showcases like the FABI Awards for concept validation. Venue: McCormick Place, Chicago. Registration for industry professionals generally costs in the low hundreds; exhibitor costs vary.

TECHSPO Chicago 2026

Tue, May 19, 2026

Technology expo showcasing Internet, Mobile, AdTech, MarTech, and SaaS innovations. Features tech demos, networking, and hands-on sessions with cutting-edge tech at Soldier Field Stadium.

Windy City Summit 2026

Tue, May 19, 2026

Windy City Summit offers educational sessions and networking events for treasury professionals to explore trends and innovations.

DigiMarCon Great Lakes 2026

Tue, May 19, 2026

DigiMarCon Great Lakes 2026 is a premier event for digital marketing professionals to explore cutting-edge strategies and technologies.

PHP Tek

Tue, May 19, 2026 – Thu, May 21, 2026

Tech conference in Chicago, Illinois, United States, North America for PHP developers and tech professionals.

DigiMarCon Midwest 2026 - Digital Marketing Conference & Exhibition

Tue, May 19, 2026

Attend DigiMarCon Midwest 2026 at Soldier Field Stadium for the latest insights and networking opportunities in digital marketing. This conference is ideal for marketing professionals looking to advance their careers.

Web Accessibility 101: Small Things That Make a Big Difference

Tue, May 19, 2026

Join the Equalize Digital Web Accessibility Meetup Chicago online to learn about web accessibility essentials that impact user experience and professional design practices.

Women Leaders In Business: Spring Showcase

Thu, May 21, 2026

Join us at KOVAL Distillery on Thursday, May 21st from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm for Women Leaders In Business: Spring Showcase, a networking event highlighting female entrepreneurship and leadership in business.

Randolph Street Market Festival 2026

Sat, May 23, 2026

Network with local artisans and professionals at the Randolph Street Market Festival, a unique marketplace event in Chicago offering opportunities for business connections and industry learning in arts and crafts.

Eagle Chicago Rising 2026 BLUF SOCIAL

Sat, May 23, 2026

Join us for the Eagle Chicago Rising 2026 BLUF SOCIAL event, a professional networking opportunity for adult professionals to connect and grow their careers. Network with like-minded professionals in a vibrant setting at the House of Blues - Foundation Room.

LinkedIn 101

Tue, May 26, 2026

Learn the basics of LinkedIn with tips and ideas on how to put your profile together. This workshop helps professional adults get started using LinkedIn as a critical networking tool. Sessions are held in the afternoon on April 15 and June 25 at 2pm, with a morning session available on May 26 at 11am. Participants receive a workshop link after registration.

Connected Commerce Summit (CCS USA)

Wed, May 27, 2026

A summit focused on connected commerce trends and technologies, providing networking and learning opportunities for professionals.

BIO Partnering for Oncology 2026

Thu, May 28, 2026 – Sun, May 31, 2026

Join BIO Partnering™ during ASCO in Chicago from May 28-31, 2026, for a premier oncology dealmaking event. Network face-to-face or virtually with biotech, pharmaceutical, and healthcare professionals to develop partnerships focused on advancing research, product development, and market access.

Lifted Thursdays | Chicago Networking Event

Thu, May 28, 2026

A weekly networking event in Chicago's South Loop designed for professionals to connect, share ideas, and build business relationships.

The Data Science Conference 2026

Thu, May 28, 2026

The Data Science Conference brings together top industry professionals to discuss the latest trends and innovations in data science.

Chicago Arte Agave Tequila and Mezcal Festival 2026

Fri, May 29, 2026

Join the Chicago Arte Agave Tequila and Mezcal Festival for adult professionals to network, explore industry trends, and enjoy specialty tastings in a vibrant atmosphere.

Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise aboard First Lady

Mon, Jun 1, 2026 – Sun, Nov 22, 2026

Explore Chicago's architecture on a 90-minute river cruise aboard the First Lady boat. Learn from knowledgeable docents about over 50 iconic buildings shaping the city's skyline. Departing from the First Lady dock on the Chicago Riverwalk in the Loop. A perfect event for networking with professionals interested in architecture, urban planning, and related industries.

Obama Presidential Center Opening

Mon, Jun 1, 2026 – Tue, Sep 1, 2026

The Obama Presidential Center will open in summer 2026 in Chicago's Jackson Park. This significant new civic and cultural destination will feature a museum, auditorium, branch of the Chicago Public Library, community and athletic programming spaces, landscaped gardens, and year-round initiatives, providing excellent opportunities for professional networking and cultural enrichment.

International Conference on Oncology (ICO)

Tue, Jun 2, 2026

The 4th International Conference on Oncology in Chicago is a professional event gathering experts and researchers in oncology for sharing breakthroughs, research, and networking to advance careers and knowledge in cancer research and treatment.

Legal Geek North America 2026

Tue, Jun 2, 2026

A dynamic conference for legal professionals focusing on the future of legal technology and innovation through talks and networking.

CSO America 250: A Musical Journey

Tue, Jun 2, 2026 – Sat, Jun 27, 2026

The Chicago Symphony Center commemorates the United States’ 250th anniversary with a curated season reflecting the nation’s rich cultural landscape. Featuring the Chicago Symphony Orchestra alongside elite guest artists and jazz ensembles, these performances honor American resilience and creativity. Experience seminal works of Copland, Gershwin, Ives, and John Williams’ Star Wars score performed live to film, celebrating American music's enduring spirit.

New Member Orientation Q2

Tue, Jun 2, 2026

Join the West Central Association for our quarterly New Member Orientation, hosted at The Yard Signature coworking space. This session is designed to help you get the most value out of your WCA membership. The orientation includes networking opportunities with new members and the WCA Membership Committee to build meaningful connections.

Chicago Public Schools Professional Development Day - June 5, 2026

Fri, Jun 5, 2026

A professional development day for Chicago Public Schools staff focused on career advancement and educational training. No school for students.

Illinois Game Con

Sat, Jun 6, 2026

Illinois Game Con is a professional gaming industry show at Interstate Center Bloomington, IL on June 6, 2026. It provides an opportunity for career development and networking in the game development, publishing, and esports sectors.

National Investor Relations Institute 2026 Conference

Sun, Jun 7, 2026

A professional conference for investment and finance industry professionals, focused on networking and career growth in Chicago.

Conference on New Innovations in Material Science 2026

Mon, Jun 8, 2026 – Wed, Jun 10, 2026

Explore the latest advancements and future directions in material science and engineering at this prestigious international conference.

NeoCon 2026

Mon, Jun 8, 2026 – Wed, Jun 10, 2026

NeoCon 2026 is the leading event for the commercial interior design industry, featuring "ILLUMINATE" - an immersive lighting experience. It highlights the intersection of design, technology, and human well-being in commercial spaces. Networking includes showroom events and galas fostering collaboration among architects, designers, and manufacturers exploring workplace design, hospitality interiors, and healthcare environments.

Chicago Public Schools Professional Development Day - June 8, 2026

Mon, Jun 8, 2026

Professional Development Day for Chicago Public Schools staff. A day dedicated to professional learning and development for educators and school staff in Chicago.

SANS Chicago 2026

Mon, Jun 8, 2026 – Sat, Jun 13, 2026

A multi-day event offering intense, hands-on training in advanced cybersecurity techniques and tools. It is ideal for professionals seeking structured instruction and certifications to advance their skills.

Orthopaedic Manufacturing & Technology Exposition and Conference 2026

Tue, Jun 9, 2026 – Thu, Jun 11, 2026

OMTEC is the premier event for connecting orthopedic OEM decision-makers and suppliers, offering networking opportunities with over 210 exhibitors and 1,500 professionals.

Insurance Tech & Innovation Conference 2026

Wed, Jun 10, 2026

Insurance Tech & Innovation Conference 2026 at Embassy Suites by Hilton Chicago Downtown Magnificent Mile focuses on innovations in insurance technology and provides networking opportunities for professionals in the insurance industry.

2026 June PMI Chicagoland Chapter Monthly Dinner Meeting

Wed, Jun 10, 2026

Monthly dinner meeting for project management professionals to network and share insights in the Chicago metropolitan area.

International Conference on Quantum Networking and Computing Systems

Wed, Jun 10, 2026

This conference focuses on the latest developments in quantum networking and computing systems, providing an excellent opportunity for professionals to learn and network in Chicago.

Midwest ML Symposium (MMLS) at University of Chicago

Wed, Jun 10, 2026

Premier academic summit held in June, offering unparalleled access to leading research from Midwestern universities and national labs such as Argonne. Ideal for networking with researchers and practitioners focused on cutting-edge machine learning.

King Room - Professional Networking and Entrepreneurial Meeting

Wed, Jun 10, 2026

Mox.E Coworking, a Black-owned coworking and event space on Chicago’s historic Michigan Avenue, empowers entrepreneurs, creatives, and community builders. Join for professional networking, collaboration, and business growth opportunities in a supportive environment.

Chicago Small Business Expo 2026

Wed, Jun 10, 2026

Seize the opportunity to connect, learn, grow, and thrive amidst a community of like-minded entrepreneurs at the Chicago Small Business Expo. Attend interactive workshops led by industry experts and thought-provoking keynote presentations designed to propel your business forward. Meet entrepreneurs, service providers, and decision-makers from across Chicago and the surrounding region. Learn from business leaders and subject-matter experts covering marketing, sales, finance, operations, technology, and scaling strategies tailored to small and midsize businesses. Explore exhibitors showcasing essential products and services for small business success and gain insights from panel discussions led by Chicago business experts.

NLA Scientific Sessions

Thu, Jun 11, 2026 – Sun, Jun 14, 2026

NLA Scientific Sessions is a professional event for learning and networking in cardiovascular fields.

ASCM & IBF Best of the Best S&OP Conference 2026

Thu, Jun 11, 2026 – Fri, Jun 12, 2026

The ASCM & IBF Best of the Best S&OP Conference is a professional event for planning and supply chain professionals to learn practical strategies, share best practices, and strengthen alignment across the business. Experience expert-led sessions on S&OP, analytics, AI applications in planning, and continuous networking opportunities. Key takeaways include building a decision-driven S&OP roadmap, aligning demand, supply, product, and finance, and elevating S&OP into an executive-level competitive advantage. The conference is held at Crowne Plaza Chicago O'Hare Hotel & Conference Center.

City-Wide Job Fair

Thu, Jun 11, 2026

Ready to start a fresh start? Join us for a City-wide job fair at The Hatchery to meet employers and explore new career opportunities. This event is ideal for job seekers and professionals looking to make a career change.

Chicago Splunk User Group Monthly Meeting

Thu, Jun 11, 2026

The Chicago Splunk User Group brings together Splunk users, power users, admins, architects, developers, and interested professionals from various industries including IT, security, IoT, healthcare, and finance to share knowledge and network. Meetings are held monthly, with a focus on learning from experts and fostering professional growth among members.

Pride Networking

Thu, Jun 11, 2026

Join us for Pride Networking at Carol’s Pub on Thursday, June 11th from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm. This event is a professional networking opportunity to connect with Pride community members and allies in a welcoming business environment.

Coffee Fest Chicago 2026

Fri, Jun 12, 2026

Coffee Fest Chicago is a vibrant event offering education, networking, and resources for coffee industry professionals and enthusiasts.

The North Lawndale Ride: Exploring Equiticity’s Neighborhood Mobility Models

Fri, Jun 12, 2026

Join a free pre-conference event focused on exploring innovative neighborhood mobility models developed by Equiticity in North Lawndale. This event provides professional networking opportunities for those interested in urban mobility, community development, and equitable transportation solutions.

James Beard Awards Ceremony

Mon, Jun 15, 2026

The culinary world’s most prestigious honors will be handed out to chefs and restaurants during this Chicago ceremony, an excellent networking event for culinary professionals and restaurateurs.

Microsoft TechCon 365 Chicago 2026

Mon, Jun 15, 2026 – Fri, Jun 19, 2026

TechCon 365 is a 5-day Microsoft 365, Power Platform, and AI/Copilot conference providing unique technical learning opportunities through workshops and sessions for Microsoft power users, admins, developers, and business analysts. The event features leading experts sharing real-world, unbiased experience with current products and tools to enable immediate implementation.

MPI-CAC 30th Anniversary Golf Classic

Mon, Jun 15, 2026

Celebrate 30 years of MPI Chicago Area Chapter with a golf outing event in Oak Brook, IL offering networking and fun among industry professionals.

Large Meeting Room - Business and Leadership Workshop

Mon, Jun 15, 2026

Host or attend a business and leadership workshop in this spacious meeting room at Mox.E Coworking on historic Michigan Avenue. Ideal for team meetings, training sessions, and professional development.

ICS/SCADA Cybersecurity Symposium 2026

Tue, Jun 16, 2026

Join cybersecurity professionals at the ICS/SCADA Cybersecurity Symposium in Chicago to discuss and learn about cybersecurity challenges and solutions in industrial control systems.

Women in AI Forum (WiAI) at Chicago AI Week

Tue, Jun 16, 2026

Women in AI Forum (WiAI) is an important conference during Chicago AI Week, featuring leading women in AI sharing insights and experiences. An excellent networking opportunity for professionals.

2026 Chicago AI Week Summit

Wed, Jun 17, 2026

The 2026 Chicago AI Week Summit is a major conference event in Chicago focused on the latest advancements in artificial intelligence. A key industry event for networking and learning.

Chicago Loop Alliance Annual Gala

Sat, Jun 20, 2026

Over 400 key Loop stakeholders from diverse industries come together to support and celebrate the Loop’s cultural amenities and its continued transformation due to the work of the Chicago Loop Alliance Foundation.

Chicago Area Mensa Bi-Monthly Gathering - June 2026

Sat, Jun 20, 2026

Attend the Chicago Area Mensa Bi-Monthly Gathering at the Georgetown West Club House in Wood Dale, IL. The event includes Mensa admissions testing, a business meeting, games, a speaker presentation, and socializing with fellow members. The venue offers free parking and is accessible by public transit and ride-sharing. Join for professional networking and intellectual conversations.

Automate 2026

Mon, Jun 22, 2026 – Thu, Jun 25, 2026

Automate 2026 is North America's premier robotics and automation event, bringing together industry leaders in manufacturing, logistics, and AI-driven industrial solutions. The event showcases cutting-edge robotics, machine vision systems, and collaborative automation technologies.

Applied AI for Distributors 2026

Tue, Jun 23, 2026 – Thu, Jun 25, 2026

Summit for distribution leaders to explore real-world AI applications, future AI directions, and building AI roadmaps for competitive advantage. Speakers include AI experts from the distribution industry.

Summer Programs: Accounting Discovery Day

Wed, Jun 24, 2026

An intensive day for accounting professionals to enhance their skills and network with peers and industry leaders. Includes workshops and seminars on the latest accounting practices.

Reuters Events: The Future of Insurance

Thu, Jun 25, 2026

Industry event focusing on innovations and future trends in the insurance sector, providing networking opportunities for professionals.

FutureCon Chicago Cybersecurity Conference 2026

Thu, Jun 25, 2026

Cybersecurity event with training, live technology demos, and executive panels on current threats. Networking opportunities with CISOs and security leaders. Earn up to 10 CPE credits.

Summer Programs: Everybody Wants to be a Marketer

Thu, Jun 25, 2026

A professional marketing development event aimed at enhancing marketing skills and networking with marketing professionals and experts. Includes sessions on current marketing trends and strategies.

NaRCAD 4th Annual AD Summit

Thu, Jun 25, 2026

The NaRCAD 4th Annual AD Summit is a focused professional event aimed at advancing understanding and practices related to academic detailing (AD). It provides a platform for professionals to network, share insights, and learn about best practices in the field. The summit runs for one day and includes various sessions to support professional development.

SAW The Musical: The Unauthorized Parody of SAW

Fri, Jun 26, 2026 – Sun, Sep 6, 2026

An engaging theater show at The Den Theatre that offers creative entertainment and networking opportunities for professionals in the arts and entertainment industry.

ILGISA 2026 Chicago Regional Meeting "Collaboration"

Fri, Jun 26, 2026

Join geospatial, economic development, and planning professionals at the ILGISA 2026 Chicago Regional Meeting hosted by the Chicago Metropolitan Agency for Planning. This event focuses on collaboration within the industry and provides excellent networking opportunities with over 600 members across Illinois. Registration details forthcoming. Note: You do not have to be an ILGISA member to attend.

Summer Leadership Academy

Wed, Jul 1, 2026 – Fri, Jul 31, 2026

A 2026 training event focused on leadership skills development for educators to make a difference in their schools, communities, and professional organizations. This event includes networking and professional growth opportunities.

International Conference on Software-Defined Networking and Control Systems

Thu, Jul 2, 2026

A conference dedicated to software-defined networking and control systems technology. An excellent networking and learning event for industry professionals in Chicago.

Chicago Splunk User Group Monthly Meeting

Thu, Jul 9, 2026

The Chicago Splunk User Group brings together Splunk users, power users, admins, architects, developers, and interested professionals from various industries including IT, security, IoT, healthcare, and finance to share knowledge and network. Meetings are held monthly, with a focus on learning from experts and fostering professional growth among members.

AWAN Conference 2026

Sat, Jul 11, 2026 – Sun, Jul 12, 2026

The Anti War Action Network (AWAN), with 27 affiliates, collaborates on national days of action to grow the anti-war movement and pressure for an end to US intervention abroad. Join this 2-day conference to engage in strategy, networking, and advocacy for peace. Mark your calendars for July 11-12, 2026, to connect with activists and professionals involved in anti-war efforts.

IFT FIRST 2026

Sun, Jul 12, 2026 – Wed, Jul 15, 2026

IFT FIRST 2026 focuses on sustainable food technology and next-generation ingredients. This event brings together scientists, product developers, and food company executives to explore innovations in alternative proteins and food safety.

The Inspired Home Show

Mon, Jul 13, 2026 – Thu, Jul 16, 2026

A major trade show for entrepreneurs and founders in the home, kitchen, and lifestyle product space. This event connects you with thousands of retail buyers, distributors, and press globally, offering educational sessions and keynotes on retail trends, consumer behavior, and supply chain logistics. Venue: McCormick Place, Chicago. Registration is typically free for qualified buyers and media; exhibitors have varied costs.

Partner Educational and Networking Events

Wed, Jul 15, 2026

Educational and networking events designed to help Choose Chicago partners grow professionally and develop valuable industry relationships. Learn about the latest industry trends, marketing opportunities, and successful marketing practices.

Upcoming events

Empowering Visionary Curriculum Leadership Cohort

David Byrne's Theater of the Mind

JOB - A Big Tech Company Leave Event

Chicago Humanities Festival 2026

TimeLine Theatre Company New Home Opening

5th Annual Lincoln Park Mayfest

National Restaurant Association Show

SWP Conference Chicago 2026

National Restaurant Association Show

TECHSPO Chicago 2026

Windy City Summit 2026

DigiMarCon Great Lakes 2026

PHP Tek

DigiMarCon Midwest 2026 - Digital Marketing Conference & Exhibition

Web Accessibility 101: Small Things That Make a Big Difference

Women Leaders In Business: Spring Showcase

Randolph Street Market Festival 2026

Eagle Chicago Rising 2026 BLUF SOCIAL

LinkedIn 101

Connected Commerce Summit (CCS USA)

BIO Partnering for Oncology 2026

Lifted Thursdays | Chicago Networking Event

The Data Science Conference 2026

Chicago Arte Agave Tequila and Mezcal Festival 2026

Chicago Architecture Center River Cruise aboard First Lady

Obama Presidential Center Opening

International Conference on Oncology (ICO)

Legal Geek North America 2026

CSO America 250: A Musical Journey

New Member Orientation Q2

Chicago Public Schools Professional Development Day - June 5, 2026

Illinois Game Con

National Investor Relations Institute 2026 Conference

Conference on New Innovations in Material Science 2026

NeoCon 2026

Chicago Public Schools Professional Development Day - June 8, 2026

SANS Chicago 2026

Orthopaedic Manufacturing & Technology Exposition and Conference 2026

Insurance Tech & Innovation Conference 2026

2026 June PMI Chicagoland Chapter Monthly Dinner Meeting

International Conference on Quantum Networking and Computing Systems

Midwest ML Symposium (MMLS) at University of Chicago

King Room - Professional Networking and Entrepreneurial Meeting

Chicago Small Business Expo 2026

NLA Scientific Sessions

ASCM & IBF Best of the Best S&OP Conference 2026

City-Wide Job Fair

Chicago Splunk User Group Monthly Meeting

Pride Networking

Coffee Fest Chicago 2026

The North Lawndale Ride: Exploring Equiticity’s Neighborhood Mobility Models

James Beard Awards Ceremony

Microsoft TechCon 365 Chicago 2026

MPI-CAC 30th Anniversary Golf Classic

Large Meeting Room - Business and Leadership Workshop

ICS/SCADA Cybersecurity Symposium 2026

Women in AI Forum (WiAI) at Chicago AI Week

2026 Chicago AI Week Summit

Chicago Loop Alliance Annual Gala

Chicago Area Mensa Bi-Monthly Gathering - June 2026

Automate 2026

Applied AI for Distributors 2026

Summer Programs: Accounting Discovery Day

Reuters Events: The Future of Insurance

FutureCon Chicago Cybersecurity Conference 2026

Summer Programs: Everybody Wants to be a Marketer

NaRCAD 4th Annual AD Summit

SAW The Musical: The Unauthorized Parody of SAW

ILGISA 2026 Chicago Regional Meeting "Collaboration"

Summer Leadership Academy

International Conference on Software-Defined Networking and Control Systems

Chicago Splunk User Group Monthly Meeting

AWAN Conference 2026

IFT FIRST 2026

The Inspired Home Show

Partner Educational and Networking Events