The Chicago Host Committee for the 2024 Democratic National Convention on Wednesday announced the three mega-party locations it will host to kick off the Democratic National Convention in Chicago.
The conference is scheduled to take place from August 19 to 22, with thousands of delegates and journalists expected to begin arriving the weekend before.
Events highlight restaurants and products made in the city. Eli's Cheesecake, a Chicago company with a long history, makes 1,000-pound “giant cheesecakes” for parties.
August 15: Volunteer Appreciation Walk
Thousands of volunteers have been recruited for the convention. Between 6,000 and 8,000 people are expected to attend their own event on August 15, with a concert and rally at Wrigley Field.
“The gathering will be an opportunity for volunteers to get a mission briefing, meet fellow volunteers and get energized for the big week ahead,” the host committee said in a statement.
Attendees will have the opportunity to stand at home plate for the Chicago Cubs and take a photo with the 2016 World Series trophy. The event will also include performances by local talent, including the Kenwood Academy Marching Broncos and Majorettes.
August 17: Welcome party for media personnel
Milwaukee Republicans never threw a party for the thousands of visiting journalists.
The Chicago Host Committee is planning a Navy Pier event for 8,000 to 10,000 reporters from the United States and international outlets in the Aon Grand Ballroom at the east end of the pier. This is the same venue the Chicago Host Committee reserved for the 1996 media event for the city's last Democratic Convention.
Democratic presidential candidate Vice President Kamala Harris and her running mate, Minnesota Gov. Tim Walz, at a campaign rally in Philadelphia on Tuesday.
This party is funded by the United Association, the United Association of Plumbing and Pipefitting Tradesmen and Apprentices.
Paramount Group, a Chicago-based, women-owned catering company, is overseeing the catering. The host committee said the menu will include items from Chicago businesses including Yum Dum Truck, Brown Sugar Bakery, Antique Taco, Sanders BBQ Supply Co., Demera Restaurant, Saigon Sisters and more.
Jeff Wang, owner of Yum Dum Truck, is one of the local vendors providing food at the upcoming Democratic National Convention.
Choose Chicago, Chicago's premier tourism agency, is sponsoring the entertainment. The event will feature “performances by a stellar lineup of Chicago blues and house talent: Billy Branch, Wayne Baker Brooks, Laurie Branch and DJ Chip E. Attendees will also experience the famous fireworks at Navy Pier,” the committee said.
August 18: Welcome Ceremony for Delegates
The event, which will be attended by between 8,000 and 10,000 delegates, will also be held at the Navy Pier.
The underwriters are the National Education Association and United Education.
“The event will also feature performances from Chicago guitarists and singers,” the organizing committee said. “The evening will conclude with a special fireworks display on Sunday night sponsored by Pyrotecnico Fireworks Inc., Phantom Fireworks Inc. and TNT Fireworks Inc.”
“Chicago knows how to celebrate, and we can’t wait to welcome thousands of volunteers, delegates and media members to some of our city’s most memorable locations,” said Christy George, CEO of the Chicago 2024 Host Committee.
“Navy Pier was proud to play an active role in the 1996 convention, and we are thrilled to once again welcome delegates and members of the media to our wonderful location,” said Arnie Rivera, Navy Pier’s Chief Administration and Equity Officer. “We look forward to showing the world what our city can do.”
