Chicago, often regarded as the architectural hub of the United States, is home to some of the most significant construction trade events and expos. For industry professionals, contractors, engineers, and manufacturers, these shows offer unmatched opportunities to network, discover the latest innovations, and grow their businesses. If you’re planning to attend a Top Construction Trade Events & Expo in Chicago, here’s your ultimate guide.
The Buildings Show Chicago
Industry: Building design, construction, and real estate.
Venue: McCormick Place, Chicago, IL.
Product category: Building materials, innovative products, architecture solutions, smart technologies, and construction machinery.
Visitor count: Over 15,000 professionals annually.
Exhibitor count: 500+ leading brands and manufacturers.
Nearby hotels: Hyatt Regency McCormick Place, Marriott Marquis Chicago, Hilton Garden Inn Chicago.
Event details: Usually held in March, the Buildings Show Chicago is the premier destination for everyone involved in building design and construction. It combines exhibits, seminars, and networking receptions.
Benefits of attending: Stay ahead with the latest trends, discover sustainable building practices, and connect directly with top suppliers. Workshops and demos help attendees make informed purchasing decisions.
Chicago Build Expo
Industry: Construction, architecture, and civil engineering.
Venue: McCormick Place, Chicago, IL.
Product category: Heavy machinery, construction tools, modular housing, and BIM technologies.
Visitor count: Around 20,000 visitors from across the Midwest.
Exhibitor count: 300+ exhibitors.
Nearby hotels: Home2 Suites by Hilton, Best Western Grant Park Hotel, Hyatt Regency McCormick Place.
Event details: Taking place every October, the Chicago Build Expo is one of the largest construction trade events & expos in Chicago. This event offers free tickets for industry professionals, making it highly accessible.
Benefits of attending: Network with contractors, developers, and suppliers. Enjoy CPD-accredited workshops and panel discussions by industry experts.
Greenbuild International Conference and Expo
Industry: Sustainable construction and green building.
Venue: McCormick Place, Chicago, IL.
Product category: Eco-friendly building materials, renewable energy solutions, energy-efficient technologies.
Visitor count: 15,000+ attendees.
Exhibitor count: 600+ green product manufacturers and service providers.
Nearby hotels: Hilton Chicago, Marriott Marquis, Chicago South Loop Hotel.
Event details: Typically held in November, Greenbuild is the world’s largest event dedicated to green building. The conference provides sessions on sustainable design, wellness, and climate action.
Benefits of attending: Get exclusive insights into future green trends, earn continuing education credits, and connect with sustainability leaders.
AHR Expo Chicago
Industry: HVACR (Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration).
Venue: McCormick Place, Chicago, IL.
Product category: HVAC systems, smart thermostats, IAQ products, energy-efficient equipment.
Visitor count: 60,000+ industry professionals.
Exhibitor count: 2,000+ exhibitors.
Nearby hotels: Hampton Inn Chicago McCormick Place, Hyatt Regency McCormick Place.
Event details: Usually organized in January, AHR Expo is the top construction trade event & expo in Chicago for HVACR professionals. The show floor buzzes with new product launches and demos.
Benefits of attending: Meet top manufacturers, test cutting-edge technologies, and learn about the latest regulations and best practices.
International Builders’ Show (IBS) – Chicago Regional Showcase
Industry: Residential and commercial construction.
Venue: Various venues across Chicago; check the regional showcase schedule.
Product category: Home building products, smart home technologies, roofing materials.
Visitor count: 10,000+ builders, remodelers, and dealers.
Exhibitor count: 500+ brands.
Nearby hotels: Depends on venue; central Chicago hotels like the Palmer House Hilton and Hyatt Centric are popular.
Event details: The regional showcase offers a chance to experience IBS highlights closer to home. These mini expos bring national trends and education to local builders.
Benefits of attending: Discover new products and gain valuable training from national experts without traveling far.
World of Concrete Regional Chicago
Industry: Concrete and masonry construction.
Venue: Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, Rosemont (Chicago area).
Product category: Concrete production equipment, tools, and technologies.
Visitor count: 5,000+ concrete and masonry professionals.
Exhibitor count: 300+ exhibitors.
Nearby hotels: Loews Chicago O’Hare Hotel, Hyatt Regency O’Hare Chicago.
Event details: Held in September, this regional edition brings the big Las Vegas show closer to Midwest professionals.
Benefits of attending: Hands-on demos, skill competitions, and new product showcases make this a must-attend.
Mid-America Trucking Show (MATS) Chicago Regional Showcase
Industry: Commercial transportation and construction logistics.
Venue: McCormick Place, Chicago, IL.
Product category: Construction trucks, fleet management, and haulage solutions.
Visitor count: 8,000+ logistics and fleet professionals.
Exhibitor count: 250+ brands.
Nearby hotels: Embassy Suites Chicago Downtown, Hilton Garden Inn.
Event details: While MATS is traditionally in Louisville, the Chicago regional showcase highlights construction fleet solutions for local contractors.
Benefits of attending: Discover trucks and fleet tech that can optimize construction logistics and reduce operational costs.
Remodeling Show & DeckExpo Chicago
Industry: Residential remodeling, outdoor living, and decking.
Venue: Navy Pier, Chicago, IL.
Product category: Outdoor materials, decking systems, remodeling tools.
Visitor count: 7,000+ remodeling contractors and designers.
Exhibitor count: 250+ exhibitors.
Nearby hotels: Sable at Navy Pier Chicago, W Chicago Lakeshore.
Event details: Usually held in August, this event combines workshops and live building clinics.
Benefits of attending: Learn new installation techniques, source the latest outdoor products, and grow your remodeling network.
Benefits of attending a top construction trade events & expo in Chicago
Attending a Top Construction Trade Events & Expo in Chicago goes far beyond just browsing booths. These expos help professionals connect with decision-makers, gain first-hand insights into new products, and stay compliant with industry standards. They often provide continuing education credits and practical training. Plus, Chicago’s central location and rich architectural history make it an inspiring backdrop for learning and networking.
Plan your stay near McCormick Place
Many of these major shows take place at McCormick Place, the largest convention center in North America. It’s surrounded by high-quality hotels, from budget-friendly to luxury. Staying nearby reduces commute time and allows you to attend early-morning sessions or evening networking receptions with ease.
Popular hotels include:
- Hyatt Regency McCormick Place
- Marriott Marquis Chicago
- Hilton Garden Inn Chicago McCormick Place
If your event is at Navy Pier or Donald E. Stephens Convention Center, look for nearby accommodations to make your visit stress-free.
Where to book tickets
Whether you’re a seasoned contractor, architect, or a newcomer eager to expand your network, attending a Top Construction Trade Events & Expo in Chicago is an investment in your professional growth. These expos help you future-proof your business, discover innovative solutions, and gain a competitive edge.
For dates, registration fees, and official updates, always visit the event’s official websites. Here are some trusted links to help you plan and book your next visit: