The largest convention center in the US just announced resumption of business by removing and/or relaxing most of the Covid-related restrictions in holding in-person events. The landmark convention center also announced the opening of a newly constructed studio for virtual and/or hybrid events.
This marks the end of a 15-month hiatus in large-scale events and tradeshows at the renowned convention center. McCormick Place officials also announced a list of important events slated for the convention center for the balance of 2021 and beyond.
McCormick had traditionally been a magnet for many landmark events and industry tradeshows throughout the years. The declared end to the event drought will help re-attract important events to Chicago and help its hospitality industry recover from the worst decline in business since the Great Depression.
Among the prominent events slated in the near future are the NBA Draft Combine in late June and Nike Tournament of Champions in mid-July which mark the first in-person events at the convention center since March 2020, followed by a traditional industry tradeshow—Advertising Specialty Institute Show on July 13-15.
The economic impact of McCormick on local economy cannot be understated. In a typical year, McCormick generated an estimated 2.2 million nightly hotel stays and nearly $240 million in tax revenues for various levels of government—not to mention the boost in direct and indirect employment.
McCormick is a bellwether for the revival of the event industry nationwide. Consequently, the reopening of McCormick Place is welcome news and brings a sigh of relief to the entire spectrum of the hospitality industry.
