Officially incorporated as a city in 1837, Chicago became a hub for businesses after the completion of the Illinois & Michigan Canal. Railways surpassed this mode of business and led way to businesses using Midway and O’Hare International airports. Today, residents and nonresidents enjoy what the city has to offer, especially in October when the city showcases business, sports, culture and Halloween.
For residents and nonresidents alike, Halloween is a city-wide event. During October, the streets of Chicago transform into the annual Chicagoween event. Decorations fill the streets, buildings and parks as guests participate in family-friendly events. Haunted houses and pumpkin patches throughout the city as well as local businesses share in the fun. Other attractions participating in Chicagoween include the Navy Pier, Harold Washington Library House, Daley Plaza and the Chicago Cultural Center.
Located at the Odeum Expo Center, Asylum Xperiment uses 30,000 square feet to frighten guests. Hollywood-style animatronics, props and special effects entertain fans of horror. Another attraction of Asylum Xperiment meant to scare guests is Blackout. This maze of horror provides twists, turns and surprises designed to keep adrenaline pumping throughout the entire experience. The event is open to the public as well as groups.
The Chicago Postal Customer Council holds its annual golf outing as a networking event at the Villa Olivia Golf Club. Event highlights include free lunch with an open bar, door prizes, skills contests, hole contests and sponsorship opportunities. The proceeds of the event help the Help Ease Local Poverty foundation. The event is open to the public.
Elite athletes from around the world descend upon Chicago for the annual Chicago Marathon. This annual competition is grouped into age groups with awards handed out after the event. The Chicago Marathon includes the Nike Pace Team, a team of veterans who help other runners achieve their race goals. After the Chicago Marathon, enjoy the festivities at the 27th Mile Post-Race Party. The celebration includes live music, beverages and food.
The first Tuesday of every month, Midwestern independent filmmakers showcase their films at the Midwest Independent Film Festival. Located at the Landmark Theater in North Chicago, the Midwest Independent Film Festival promotes the filmmaking community. Events include a cocktail reception, a producers' panel, showing of the film and an after party. The event is open to the public.
The Chicago Theater Marquee Tour allows guests to view the famous stage where world-renowned artists such as Beyonce, Frank Sinatra and Liza Minelli have performed. Tours of the Chicago Theater include learning the history of the theater, viewing of the autograph wall and viewing the photo montage. The event is open to the public with rates discounted for groups of 10 or more.
The Futures Industry Association holds an annual conference highlighting the achievements of options and futures professionals. The FIA focuses on policy makers, self-regulators, regulators and legislators who have a profound influence on the industry. An additional focus of the conference is seminars pertaining to technology, operations, trading systems and brokerage issues.
Touted as one of the best trade shows in the United States, the National Association of Convenience Stores show offers attendees the opportunity to meet and network with the most influential professionals in the industry. Those attending will learn about building brands, attracting customers, promoting growth and developing strategies in this industry.
Motivational services for meetings, travel services for suppliers, promotional products, recognition and corporate gift cards -- these are components of The Motivation Show. Attendees from around the world attend The Motivation Show in order to showcase their brand as it relates to motivational retailing.
