Chicago Build 2026

Chicago Build is Oliver Kinross's construction show for the AEC industry in Chicago and the Midwest, held at McCormick Place. Contractors, architects, realtors, civil engineers, developers, government and construction professionals attend a two-day expo with a multi-track conference, feature zones and networking events.

Chicago Build 2026

Chicago Build 2026 runs Wednesday October 28 and Thursday October 29 in Hall F2 of McCormick Place's West Building (Level 3), 2301 S Lake Shore Dr, Chicago. Doors open 9:30am to 5:30pm on the Wednesday and 9:30am to 4:30pm on the Thursday, so the second day closes an hour earlier.

What it is

Chicago Build is run by Oliver Kinross, the organiser behind New York Build, and bills itself as the Midwest's construction show for the AEC industry. The audience is contractors, architects, realtors, civil engineers, developers, government, house builders and construction professionals. Visitors register online for tickets in advance.

On the floor in 2026

• AI & Digital Construction Zone: live demos, case studies and discussion on BIM, automation, data and emerging technology.
• Fire Safety & Security Zone: fire prevention, integrated safety systems and security technology.
• HVACR Zone, powered by InstallerSHOW: heating, cooling, refrigeration and building services products.
• Architect's Hub: project displays of upcoming projects from architects.

Conference and networking

The conference agenda runs across multiple tracks of sessions, panels and workshops on construction, design, technology and the built environment, and the organiser says the sessions are a way to top up AIA CES points. Off the main programme there is the Festival of Construction, a series of networking parties, and networking events for Women in Construction and Diversity in Construction.