Saturday, June 13, 2026
Home IL Production IL Event Snapshots You’re Invited! Important Events to Add to Your Calendar

You’re Invited! Important Events to Add to Your Calendar

By M+E Staff

Hello Readers!

We all wish we had a personal assistant to schedule our activities for us, right? Well just for today I’ll step in and help! I’ve been receiving a number of e-mails lately with important, key events that I want to make sure you know about and have on your calendar. Many of these require RSVPs and advance registration, so be sure to click through and get setup before the dates approach. Here are my top three favorites:

James Beard Foundation’s Taste America Chicago

September 20-21, 2013
Various locations

– The James Beard Foundation is kicking off a touring food festival called “Local Flavor from Coast to Coast,” which celebrates culinary stars and regional cuisine across the country.

– Chicago’s weekend celebration kicks off with a lavish dinner reception, “A Journey through the Great Lakes,” at Chicago’s Union Station on Friday with a cocktail reception provided by artisan mixologists from The Violet Hour and hosted by chef Andrew Zimmern of Sepia.

– On Saturday, noted chefs Paul Kahan and Richard Blais will host free cooking demos at Sur La Table (900 N Michigan Avenue)

– Get further information and sign up here.

 

Chicago Fine Chocolate & Dessert Show

October 18-20, 2013
Navy Pier

– This year’s summit expands its focus on chocolate and desserts – get creative tips for menus and ideas for gift giving to clients and attendees.

– Highlights include the French Pastry School’s Demonstration Stage, a live cupcake competition, a panel hosted by Top Chef Just Desserts competitor Malika Ameen and a beer, wine and spirits pairing pavilion.

– Get further information and sign up here.

Illinois Governor’s Conference on Travel and Tourism

February 3-5, 2014
*New location this year: Palmer House Hilton, 17 E Monroe Street, Chicago

– Learn what’s new in the local travel and tourism market and how to attract new audiences to your area.

– The event kicks off with the Excellence in Tourism Awards, where the esteemed Bill Kurtis will emcee.

– Get further information and sign up here.

Happy planning!

Selena Fragassi
Editor
Illinois Meetings + Events

RECENT POSTS