Maker Faire Chicago Set to Launch in the Windy City

January 24, 2017

Make: and Reed Exhibitions are partnering up to launch Maker Faire Chicago 2017. Set for April 22-23 at McCormick Place, the two-day, family-friendly event will be collocated with the Chicago Comic and Entertainment Expo (C2E2).

Co-founded in 2006 by Maker Media, Maker Faire festivals gather together tech enthusiasts, crafters, educators, tinkerers, hobbyists, engineers, science clubs, authors, artists, students, and commercial exhibitors to celebrate innovation, creativity and hands-on collaboration across the spectrum of science, engineering, art, performance and craft.

Upon its debut, Maker Faire Chicago will take its place as the third flagship Maker Faire, alongside the New York City and the San Francisco Bay Area Faires.

Approximately 20,000-25,000 attendees and 300-400 “Makers” (i.e., exhibitors) are expected to converge from around the Midwest and beyond for the inaugural Chicago Faire, according to show officials.

“We have known that Chicago supports a growing maker community and we have wanted to organize Maker Faire Chicago to reflect the extent and diversity of making in Chicago,” said Dale Dougherty, founder and CEO of Maker Media, which co-founded Maker Faire in 2006.

He added, “We are excited to partner with Reed Exhibitions to bring Maker Faire to Chicago at McCormick Place, co-located with C2E2.”

Last year, the 11th annual Maker Faire Bay Area at the San Mateo Event Center drew in 150,000 attendees and 1,300 exhibitors, while the 7th annual World Maker Faire at the New York Hall of Science in New York City drew in 95,000 attendees and 950 exhibitors to both indoor and outdoor event spaces.

From DIY experts to complete beginners, Maker Faire attendees of all ages can expect plenty of creative inspiration and opportunities to find something to learn about, build or make.

As creative, hands-on events for makers of all ages, ranging from DIY experts to complete beginners, Maker Faire Chicago attendees can look forward to finding something fun and inspiring to learn about, build or make.

“Reed Exhibitions is excited to partner with Make: to launch a flagship Maker Faire alongside C2E2,” said Nancy Walsh, president of Reed Exhibitions North America.

She added, “Make: is a respected brand and a leader in the Maker Movement, and we believe that this launch will open up many opportunities for the future growth of both events, continuing to bring a one-of-a-kind event weekend to the city of Chicago.”

In 2016, Maker Faire celebrated 192 Faires in 38 countries across the globe, including Tokyo, Rome, Oslo, Berlin, Paris and Singapore, and in U.S. cities including Atlanta, Detroit, Kansas City, Orlando, Pittsburgh and San Diego.

Add new comment

Partner Voices
  MGM Resorts is renowned for its exceptional service and diverse venue options across Las Vegas, Detroit, Springfield, National Harbor, Biloxi, and Atlantic City, providing flexible spaces for meetings of any size. Beyond these offerings, MGM Resorts distinguishes itself through a strong commitment to social responsibility and sustainability, making it an ideal choice for your next meeting.  At the core of MGM Resorts' company values is its platform, "Focused on What Matters," dedicated to meeting customer needs while advancing socially responsible practices. This commitment is evident in several key areas:  Protecting Natural Resources  MGM Resorts is home to industry-leading recycling, renewable electricity and water conservation programs. Some highlights include a cogeneration power plant at ARIA, producing ultra-efficient electricity; one of America’s largest contiguous rooftop solar arrays atop the convention center at Mandalay Bay; and onsite wells that provide water for the celebrated Fountains of Bellagio, avoiding reliance on precious Colorado River water. These efforts and many more save on natural resources while boosting attendee satisfaction.  Committed to Community  Always striving to be good neighbors, MGM Resorts works to avoid food waste and combat food insecurity with the Feeding Forward program. In partnership with local food banks, they safely divert unserved food to food insecure members of the community. Since 2016, over 5 million meals have been provided, highlighting MGM Resorts' commitment to minimizing food waste and addressing community needs.  MGM Resorts supports clients in their responsible-meetings efforts, not only with efficient venues but also waste-reducing décor and signage; sustainable food and beverage options; and outreach to help planners communicate sustainability efforts to attendees. What’s more, they offer a Mindful Meetings series that puts attendee wellness first—through fitness and mindfulness activities, and in give-back events with local charity organizations.   Fostering Diversity & Inclusion  To MGM Resorts, a diverse and talented workforce is essential to success. By cultivating innovative strategies that consider multiple perspectives and viewpoints, the company creates an inclusive workplace culture that benefits its employees and community. MGM Resorts takes pride in being a welcoming home for veterans, individuals with disabilities, people from diverse backgrounds, LGBTQ+ community members, and more. This commitment to inclusion is reflected in the company's recruitment and hiring practices and its social responsibility initiatives. From the workplace to the community, MGM Resorts' commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion remains unwavering, and its efforts continue to create a more equitable and sustainable world for all.  MGM Resorts offers unparalleled service and venue options while standing out for its proactive approach to sustainability and community engagement. Choosing MGM Resorts for your next meeting means aligning with a company that values social responsibility, efficiency, and attendee satisfaction, ensuring a meaningful and impactful event experience.