Annual Meeting & Awards Luncheon

Cheers to 40 Years!

Celebrating Four Decades of Progress

Forty years ago, Visit Chicago Southland was founded with a simple purpose: to showcase our communities, welcome visitors and create opportunities through tourism. Since then, we’ve grown alongside an evolving industry from visitors guides and tradeshows to digital experiences and new ways to connect travelers with the places that make our region unique. Join us as we celebrate our milestone 40th anniversary at this year’s Annual Meeting, Cheers to 40 Years: Celebrating Four Decades of Progress. Together, we’ll reflect on the achievements, partnerships and milestones that have shaped Chicago Southland while looking ahead to the opportunities still to come.

We are honored to welcome Gabrielle Lyons, Executive Director of Illinois Humanities and leader of the Illinois America 250 initiative. As communities across Illinois continue commemorating our nation’s 250th anniversary, Gabrielle will share perspectives on how celebrating history strengthens community identity, elevates local stories and inspires future generations. 

Whether you’ve been part of our journey for decades or recently joined our network of partners, we invite you to celebrate how far we’ve come and raise a glass to the next chapter of Chicago Southland.

Thursday, October 8, 2026
Wind Creek Chicago Southland Casino & Resort

11:30AM – 12:00PM
Networking

12:00PM – 1:30PM
Luncheon & Awards Program

Registration is required by September 16, 2026. NO Walk-ins.

$40 per person; Table for 10: $375

Register Now!