If you’re part of the architecture, engineering, construction, or real estate industry—or you follow the cutting edge of urban development—you’ve likely heard about the Chicago Build Expo. Eagerly awaited every year, the Chicago Build Expo 2025 is the Midwest’s premier event for innovation, connection, and growth in the built environment sector. But when is it happening, and what can you expect? Let’s walk through it in detail.
Dates and Times of Chicago Build Expo 2025
The Chicago Build Expo 2025 will take place over two days:
- Day 1: Wednesday, October 29, 2025, from 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM CDT
- Day 2: Thursday, October 30, 2025, from 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM CDT
Set at the iconic McCormick Place, Hall D2, Lakeside Center Level 3 (2301 S. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Drive, Chicago, IL 60616), the expo is free to attend with registration—it’s your ticket to leading-edge industry insight.
Why These Dates Matter
Selecting late October is no coincidence. As projects ramp up across North America heading into Q4, professionals are actively searching for inspiration, partnerships, and market insights. The Chicago Build Expo lands precisely when the momentum is building, blending:
- AIA CES‑approved workshops and credit-earning educational opportunities
- Networking syncs are designed for contractors, architects, civil engineers, developers, government officials, and brokers
- Product showcases and live demonstrations from over 300 exhibitors
It’s a strategic time to attract attendees looking for next‑phase solutions.
What Happens When You Attend
The Chicago Build Expo 2025 remains faithful to its billing as the Midwest’s leading construction and design show. Here’s a snapshot of the action planned across October 29–30:
Thought Leadership & Learning
- 400+ featured speakers across 13 thought-provoking conference tracks
- AIA CES educational workshops on critical topics—sustainability, digital transformation, materials, and more
Exhibitors & Innovation
- 300+ exhibitors showcasing solutions from building materials to software to machinery
- Dedicated hubs—Architect’s Hub, Government Hub, Diversity & Women in Construction Ambassador Program
Live Events & Networking
- Festival of Construction: DJs, food, live shows, and entertainment on the expo floor
- Numerous networking meetups, including panels like Diversity in Construction, Digital Innovation, and AEC Speed Mentoring
Special Programs
- Women in Construction and Diversity Ambassador Programs: panels, mixers, mentorships
- Architect’s Hub, Government Hub, Real Estate & Facilities Management Mixer, and more
Every hour is designed to foster inspiration, foster business, and spark real-world action.
Who Should Attend?
Whether you’re a seasoned executive or a hands-on specialist, the Expo covers the full AEC spectrum:
- Architects, BIM Managers, Interior Designers, Brokers, and Buyers
- General Contractors, Civil Engineers, Developers, Government officials
- Real Estate professionals, House Builders, Infrastructure and Safety specialists
The event attracts 30,000+ attendees annually, signaling massive reach and opportunity in making meaningful connections within your regional network.
Where Exactly Is It?
Everything happens at McCormick Place, the largest convention center in North America, located on Chicago’s lakefront:
- Hall D2, Lakeside Center Level 3
- Address: 2301 S. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Drive, Chicago, IL 60616
Easy to reach via public transit, taxis, rideshare, or personal vehicle, McCormick Place also offers on-site accommodation and nearby hotel options.
Registration & Attendance is FREE
In a bold move that broadens access, Chicago Build Expo 2025 is entirely free:
- Print-at-home badge includes full access to both days and all areas: expo floor, conference stages, networking lounges, and socials.
- You can register multiple badges—bring your whole team at no extra cost.
A smart investment? Absolutely—especially given 2 days of premium content and connections.
Summary Table: All About Chicago Build Expo 2025
| Category | Details |
| Dates | Oct 29, 2025 (9:30–17:30), Oct 30, 2025 (9:30–16:30) (Chicago Build 2025) |
| Venue | McCormick Place, Hall D2, Chicago, IL |
| Attendance | ~30,000+ AEC professionals |
| Exhibitors | 300–350+ showcasing industry trends |
| Speakers & Tracks | 400+ across 13 conference tracks + AIA CES workshops |
| Networking | Festival of Construction, sector mixers, inclusive programs |
| Cost | Completely free—register early |
Register Now & Learn More
Head to Chicago Build Expo to register for free tickets, apply for exhibit space, explore educational tracks, secure lodging, and pick your can’t-miss events. Their website frequently updates with fresh content and opportunities, including detailed conference agendas, exhibitor lists, and curated networking events.
With the clock ticking on October, lock in your place early and get ready for two days of growth, innovation, and inspiration at the Chicago Build Expo 2025.
Don’t forget to check: Top 10 International Expo for Ceramic Tiles in 2025
Reference:
Chicago Build Expo 2025[1].
No, attending the Chicago Build Expo 2025 is entirely free. You need to register online in advance to get your event badge.
The event will be held on October 29–30, 2025, at McCormick Place, Chicago’s premier convention center, located at 2301 S. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Drive.
Yes, one registration gives you full access to both days of the expo, including workshops, networking sessions, and the exhibition hall.
While on-site registration is available, it’s recommended to pre-register online to save time and avoid queues at the entrance.
Most sessions are open to all registered attendees on a first-come, first-served basis, so early arrival is suggested, especially for popular workshops.
