The Inspired Home Show (Kitchen/Housewares) – Chicago, USA is one of the most prominent trade exhibitions in the home and housewares industry. Organized annually by the International Housewares Association (IHA), this iconic event brings together thousands of global housewares professionals, retailers, manufacturers, distributors, and media personnel. The show is a hub of innovation, trendsetting, and industry networking, covering every sector of the housewares market — from kitchenware and tabletop to cleaning, storage, and home décor.

Set against the dynamic backdrop of Chicago, this trade event plays a vital role in shaping consumer lifestyles, influencing product design, and building lasting industry connections. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a new entrant in the housewares industry, The Inspired Home Show is an unmissable opportunity to witness the future of home living.

Venue details and dates

The Inspired Home Show is hosted at the McCormick Place in Chicago, Illinois — the largest convention center in North America. This state-of-the-art venue offers modern facilities, multiple exhibition halls, and easy access to transportation, making it ideal for an international-scale event.

• Venue: McCormick Place, 2301 S King Dr, Chicago, IL 60616, USA
• Dates: The show typically takes place in March every year. For the upcoming edition, it will be held from March 2 to March 4, 2025.
• Timings: Usually open from 9:00 AM to 5:30 PM on the first two days, and 9:00 AM to 3:00 PM on the final day.

Visitors are advised to check the official website closer to the event for specific timing updates and program details.

Product categories on display

The Inspired Home Show features a wide spectrum of home-related products across various categories. The exhibition is segmented into distinctive expos to ensure that every professional sector is addressed effectively:

• Dine + Décor: Tableware, barware, home décor, serveware, and more.
• Clean + Contain: Storage solutions, cleaning tools, closet organization, and home utility products.
• Cook + Bakeware: Cookware, bakeware, kitchen tools, small appliances, cutlery, and utensils.
• Wired + Well: Smart home tech, personal care, electrics, and wellness products.
• International Sourcing Expo: Featuring manufacturers and suppliers from key sourcing regions including Asia, Europe, and South America.

Each category showcases innovation, functionality, and style — giving buyers and professionals a panoramic view of the industry’s latest offerings.

Expected visitor and exhibitor turnout

The Inspired Home Show consistently draws a massive international audience, solidifying its reputation as a premier destination for the homewares industry:

• Exhibitors: Over 1,500 exhibitors from more than 40 countries.
• Visitors: Approximately 52,000+ industry professionals including retail buyers, product developers, interior designers, influencers, and media.
• Retail Representation: Attendees come from both large retail chains and independent boutiques, offering networking opportunities across all business scales.

Nearby hotels and accommodations

Given the event’s location at McCormick Place, attendees have a wide range of accommodation options within close proximity. Here are some convenient and quality stay options:

• Hyatt Regency McCormick Place (Connected directly to the venue)
• Marriott Marquis Chicago (Located next to McCormick Place)
• Hilton Garden Inn Chicago McCormick Place
• Home2 Suites by Hilton Chicago McCormick Place
• The Blackstone, Autograph Collection (A short drive away in the Loop district)

Early booking is highly recommended as hotel rooms near the venue tend to sell out quickly due to the scale of the event.

Cost and registration information

Entry to The Inspired Home Show is free for qualified industry professionals, including retail buyers, distributors, importers, and media representatives. However, pre-registration is mandatory to ensure access to the event.

Those who are not pre-registered may need to pay an on-site registration fee. Exhibitors and international participants should inquire about custom packages, booth spaces, or travel facilitation services via the event’s official channels.

Benefits of attending The Inspired Home Show

Attending The Inspired Home Show offers numerous benefits to professionals in the kitchen and housewares industry:

• Networking opportunities: Meet and build relationships with manufacturers, designers, wholesalers, and global retailers.
• Trend insights: Gain firsthand exposure to upcoming trends in lifestyle, product design, and consumer preferences.
• Educational sessions: Participate in insightful keynotes, demonstrations, and panel discussions by industry leaders and trend forecasters.
• Product sourcing: Discover innovative products from established brands and emerging companies, including sustainable and tech-driven solutions.
• Brand exposure: Ideal for brands looking to enter the U.S. market or expand their global presence.
• Influencer collaboration: Connect with social media influencers and content creators focused on home lifestyle, food, and décor.

Event perks and unique experiences

The Inspired Home Show is not just about business — it’s about experiencing the future of home living. Here are some of the notable features that make this event stand out:

• IHA Global Innovation Awards (gia): Celebrating excellence in product design and retail innovation.
• Inventors Corner: A platform for showcasing new, inventive housewares products.
• Trending Today Preview: A curated exhibit open on the first day of the show, focusing on the most up-to-date and in-demand consumer trends.
• Culinary demonstrations: Live cooking shows featuring renowned chefs and home appliance brands.
• Sustainability Pavilion: Highlighting eco-friendly products and sustainable solutions for the modern home.

How to get there

Chicago is a major transportation hub, and reaching McCormick Place is easy via:

• Airports: Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) and Midway International Airport (MDW)
• Public Transport: CTA bus and train routes including the Green Line Cermak-McCormick stop
• Ride-share: Uber, Lyft, and taxis are readily available throughout the city
• Parking: Multiple parking lots are available on-site and nearby for those driving in

Suggestions for nearby attractions

If you have some time to explore outside the event, Chicago offers incredible sightseeing, culinary, and cultural experiences:

• Millennium Park and Cloud Gate (The Bean)
• Art Institute of Chicago
• Navy Pier
• Chicago Riverwalk
• Magnificent Mile (shopping district)
• Museum of Science and Industry
• Deep-dish pizza restaurants like Giordano’s and Lou Malnati’s

The Inspired Home Show (Kitchen/Housewares) – Chicago, USA is more than just a trade fair — it is a melting pot of innovation, creativity, and opportunity in the global housewares market. Whether you’re sourcing new products, launching a brand, or studying market trends, this show delivers unmatched value and exposure.

To book your visit or register as an exhibitor, head to the official website for the latest updates, registration forms, and travel assistance:

Official website: https://www.theinspiredhomeshow.com