MPI-CAC 2026 Trend Forecaster

As Chicago continues to grow as a top-tier destination for meetings and events, 2026 is shaping up to be a year defined by intentional planning, elevated hospitality, and experiences that feel distinctly local. With new developments across the city, evolving attendee expectations, and a strong corporate presence driving demand, planners and partners will be challenged to create events that are both memorable and measurable. Whether you’re hosting a board retreat downtown, a multi-day conference near McCormick Place, or a networking event in a neighborhood hotspot, the industry is moving toward smarter strategy, stronger partnerships, and more personalized execution.

In 2026, we can expect Chicago planners to lean even further into purpose-driven programming, where every event is built around clear outcomes, such as attendee engagement, business development, or community impact. Organizations are increasingly asking for events that support larger goals, and planners will be expected to show value through intentional session design, stronger audience segmentation, and better post-event reporting. This shift also impacts venues and suppliers, who will be asked to provide more flexible packages, transparent pricing, and creative solutions that help clients maximize every dollar and every moment.

Hoteliers and venues across Chicago will also continue raising the bar with experience-forward hospitality and more versatile event offerings. As competition increases between traditional hotels, boutique properties, and unique venues, the guest experience will become a major differentiator—think curated food and beverage, design-driven meeting spaces, and seamless service that feels personal rather than transactional. We’ll also see a stronger push toward “Chicago flavor” in events, from locally-inspired menus to partnerships with neighborhood vendors and activations that highlight the city’s culture, architecture, and energy.

Technology will remain a major trend in 2026, but the focus will be on tools that genuinely improve the attendee experience and simplify planning. More Chicago-based events will incorporate AI-supported personalization, streamlined registration, and real-time engagement tools to make sessions feel more interactive and less passive. At the same time, planners will continue balancing tech with human connection—ensuring that networking, relationship-building, and community remain at the center of the experience. The most successful events will be the ones that use technology to remove friction, not replace hospitality.

As we look ahead, one thing is clear: Chicago’s meetings and events community is poised for an exciting year of innovation, collaboration, and elevated expectations. In 2026, success will come from embracing flexibility, building strong venue and supplier partnerships, and creating experiences that feel both strategic and authentic. Whether you’re planning, hosting, or supporting events, this is the year to lean into what Chicago does best: bringing people together in ways that are bold, memorable, and built for lasting impact.