If you’re involved in oncology—as a clinician, researcher, nurse, pharmacist, or patient advocate—the American Society of Clinical Oncology (ASCO) Annual Meeting in Chicago is an event you can’t miss. It’s the world’s largest gathering for cancer professionals, a place where breakthroughs are shared, clinical trials take center stage, and every attendee comes away with new tools to help patients.
Whether you want to learn about emerging therapies, network with peers, or discover cutting-edge data, this meeting delivers real impact.
When & Where It Happens
- Dates: June 5–9, 2025
- Venue: McCormick Place Convention Center, Chicago, Illinois
- Schedule Overview:
- Day 1: Educational courses and satellite symposia
- Days 2–4: Scientific sessions, poster presentations, education tracks
- Day 5: Closing sessions and networking wrap-up
McCormick Place sits on Lake Michigan’s shore, right in Chicago’s vibrant city center. It’s easy to combine business with some of the city’s attractions after sessions.
What Makes the ASCO Meeting Special
This annual meeting stands out for its global influence. It gathers thousands of oncology professionals from around the world to present new research, share clinical experiences, and debate standards of care. Highlights include:
- Presentation of late-breaking clinical trial results
- Educational sessions covering the latest treatments and guidelines
- Poster exhibits featuring novel research and data
- Exhibition hall showcasing biotech, pharma, and care technology solutions
- Networking events and professional development sessions for all roles
You’ll find practical information you can bring straight into patient care or research.
Who Should Attend
This conference welcomes a wide cross-section:
- Medical oncologists, hematologists, and surgical oncologists
- Radiation therapists and oncology nurses
- Oncology pharmacists and research coordinators
- Clinical researchers and trial staff
- Biotech and pharmaceutical professionals
- Healthcare policymakers and patient advocates
- Residents, fellows, and students focused on cancer care
If oncology touches your work, you’ll fit right in.
What to Expect
1. Clinical & Scientific Sessions
Listen to presentations from world-renowned experts on topics like immunotherapy, precision medicine, survivorship care, and surgical advances.
2. Poster Sessions
See and discuss thousands of research posters, with an opportunity to meet authors one-on-one and dive into fresh clinical data.
3. Educational Courses
Pre-meeting and mid-meeting courses offer deep dives on topics like molecular profiling, care delivery models, and emerging therapies.
4. Expert Point-Counterpoint Sessions
Hear leading clinicians debate areas of practice where there’s still no clear answer—providing balanced perspectives.
5. Exhibit Hall
View the latest offerings from pharmaceutical, medical device, genomic, and IT vendors. Demos, case examples, and new products await.
6. Networking Events
Lunch, coffee breaks, poster receptions, and evening gatherings offer time to connect, share ideas, and collaborate across disciplines.
Benefits of Attending
- Stay informed on evolving and emerging cancer treatment approaches
- Learn directly from researchers and clinicians leading trials and practice
- Discover solutions and services that can boost your practice or research team
- Earn Continuing Medical Education credits and professional certifications
- Build a network of peers and experts from diverse settings
- Be part of discussions that shape future cancer care standards
Cost & Registration
Registration varies by role and when you sign up:
- Member Oncologist: Around $670 early bird, higher later
- Non‑Member Oncologist: Slightly more than members
- Allied Health/Pharmacist/Nurse: Mid-range rate—significantly discounted
- Resident/Fellow/Student: Lowest rate, designed for people in training
- Pre-Meeting Courses/Symposia: Extra fees depending on length and topic
- Late Registration: Higher than early-bird pricing
It’s best to register early to secure your seat and preferred courses.
Where to Stay
Hotels near McCormick Place include:
- Large convention hotels connected via walkway
- Downtown hotels near Millennium Park or the Riverwalk
- Budget options a short ride away, with easy transport links
- Shared rentals and Airbnb spots popular with groups
Book early for the best location and price—Chicago fills up fast during ASCO week.
Getting Around Chicago
- ‘L’ Train: Green Line serves McCormick Place directly
- Buses: Multiple routes run near the venue
- Ride-share and taxis: Easy and reliable
- Walking: Downtown Chicago is walkable, especially along the river
- Driving & Parking: Available garages, with on-site options—but traffic is busy
Smart Tips for Attendees
- Plan ahead: Set your must-attend sessions before arrival
- Arrive early for posters/demos: Beat the crowds for better interaction
- Participate in education courses: They’ll help you dive deeper into key topics
- Network throughout: Not just at evening events—meet people during breaks too
- Take notes or use an app: You’ll hear a lot; staying organized helps
- Follow-up matters: Reach out afterward to cement connections or learn more
Final Thoughts
The ASCO Annual Meeting in Chicago is not just an event—it’s a career-defining experience. It’s where you can hear the latest trial results, connect with leaders in cancer care, and gather tools that make a difference in patient lives. With Chicago’s energy and easy logistics, it’s an ideal setting for this impactful gathering.
If you work in oncology—no matter your role or stage—this meeting delivers fresh thinking, relevant connections, and inspiration to bring back home. It truly sets the tone for what’s next in cancer care.
To learn more and reserve your ticket, visit:
https://conferences.asco.org/am2025