Chicago Convention Events

Cubs Convention

• The Chicago Cubs, the Windy City's "lovable losers," host a convention annually in January. The Cubs Convention is a time when the North Side team introduces its new roster and its plans for the upcoming season. Over the two days, fans have a chance to meet and greet the Cubs owners and players, and they get to see firsthand what makes the team tick. Single-day passes as well as weekend passes are available, but check the website for the prices, as they change from year to year.

Chicago Auto Show

• The Chicago Auto Show was first staged in 1901 and is the largest auto show in North America. Since 1935, the Chicago Automobile Trade Association has produced the show, held currently at McCormick Place on Chicago's Near South Side. The auto show introduces new vehicles from around the world, including cars, trucks, SUVs and experimental or concept cars. About 1,000 vehicles will be on display. The promoters also have special-event days such as Women's Day--a day where women get in for only $7--a food drive and Hispanic Day.

Sweets & Snacks Expo

• The Sweets & Snacks Expo at McCormick Place features about 500 companies showing off their confections and snacks in one place, making it easier for the nearly 14,000 professional attendees to see what's new and exciting in the snack industry. Attendees range from buyers, merchandisers and store owners from all trades, including supermarkets, drug stores and theaters. Importers, exporters, suppliers and distributors also attend what is known as the largest confectionery, cookie and snack show in the Americas. This show, however, is not open to the public, but some media outlets are invited to attend.