FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:
Wednesday, August 7th, 2024
CONTACT:
Press@Chicago2024.com
Democratic National Convention Selects Iconic Chicago Locations for Marquee Events
Chicago, IL – Today, the Chicago 2024 Host Committee announced the locations of the three large-scale events being held in the lead-up to the Democratic National Convention. The Volunteer Appreciation Rally and Media and Delegate Welcome Parties will welcome tens of thousands of guests to two of Chicago’s most iconic locations: Wrigley Field and Navy Pier.
“Chicago knows how to party, and we can’t wait to welcome thousands of volunteers, delegates, and members of the media to some of the most memorable locations our city has to offer,” said Chicago 2024 Host Committee Executive Director Christy George. “We are thrilled to showcase some of the region’s best food, beverages, and talent, and we are confident guests will leave these events energized and excited for the week of business ahead.”
“We are thrilled to support these exciting events with signature Chicago elements that will wow delegates and members of the media alike,” said Choose Chicago Interim President and CEO Rich Gamble. “No one does it like Chicago and we can’t wait to add our style to these incredible events.”
Volunteer Appreciation Rally
The week before the convention, thousands of convention volunteers will gather in the Lakeview neighborhood at the historic Wrigley Field, the second oldest ballpark in the world and the home of the Chicago Cubs. The rally will be an opportunity for volunteers to receive a briefing on assignment information, meet their fellow volunteers, and get energized for the monumental week ahead. Attendees will have the chance to stand on the home plate of the Chicago Cubs and snag a photo with the 2016 World Series trophy. The event will also feature performances by local talent, including the Kenwood Academy Marching Broncos and Majorettes.
Media Welcome Party
The Media Welcome Party will kick off at Navy Pier with an expected attendance of several thousand members of the international media. Sponsored by the United Association of Union Plumbers and Pipefitters, the Media Welcome Party will be a true showcase of Chicago’s 77 community areas. In coordination with the Paramount Group, a Chicago-based, woman-owned catering company, guests will be able to enjoy items from local favorites such as Yum Dum Truck, Brown Sugar Bakery, Antique Taco, Sanders BBQ Supply Co., Demera Restaurant, Saigon Sisters and more. The party will feature a performance by a super group of Chicago blues and house music talent: Billy Branch, Wayne Baker Brooks, Lori Branch and DJ Chip E., sponsored by Choose Chicago. Attendees will also get to experience the acclaimed Navy Pier fireworks.
“Navy Pier was proud to play an instrumental role in the 1996 convention, and we are thrilled to once again welcome delegates and members of the media back to our incredible venue,” said Chief Administrative and Equity Officer of Navy Pier Arnie Rivera. “We look forward to showing the world what our city can do.”
Delegate Welcome Party
The Delegate Welcome Party will welcome thousands of attendees back to Navy Pier for another celebration of Chicago. Sponsored by the National Education Association and the United Association of Union Plumbers and Pipefitters, the event will also feature performances by Chicago guitarists and vocalists. The Delegate and Welcome events also include two “big cakes” made by Eli’s Cheesecake, each weighing 1,000-pounds and decorated with 50 state placards. The evening will end with a special Sunday-night fireworks show sponsored by Pyrotecnico Fireworks, Inc., Phantom Fireworks, Inc., & TNT Fireworks, Inc.
In March, following a rigorous search and selection process, the Host Committee and the Democratic National Convention Committee selected two local, diverse-owned teams with extensive large-scale event planning and execution experience to produce the official hospitality events.
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About the Chicago 2024 Host Committee
The Chicago 2024 Host Committee (Development Now for Chicago) is a nonprofit, nonpartisan organization responsible for fundraising and ensuring individuals and businesses across Illinois have the opportunity to experience the benefits of hosting the Democratic National Convention in Chicago. The Host Committee liaises between the Democratic National Convention Committee, the City of Chicago, and the State of Illinois to create a world-class experience for all convention attendees and residents, and drives lasting social and economic impact across the Chicagoland area. For more information, visit https://chicago2024.com