Three big outdoors shows around Chicago roll the dice this winter and one new show comes in the summer.
The Chicago Boat Show, most venerable of Chicago shows, leaves it long-time home at McCormick Place for Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont Jan. 8-12. I know the National Marine Manufacturers Association did major consultations before moving, but I find it an odd move. We'll know in a little over a month.
The Tinley Park Fishing, Travel and Outdoor Expo remains at the Tinley Park Convention Center, but it will dramatically alter its dates from early February to Jan. 10-12, same time as the Boat Show.
Manager Clyde Sana made it plain the change of dates were forced because of scheduling by the convention center. Even so, he noted, "It could be terrific."
Advertising and marketing is being tweaked. Mike Norris will headline the local-focused seminar presenters.
"I think we will bring more people in this year, even though it is near the holidays," he said. "After the holidays, people are looking to get out."
The big show at the Schaumburg Convention Center, rebranded Chicagoland Fishing Expo, returns in its usual slot (Jan. 23-26) but under new owners. Tod Alberto remains show manager as he has been since the beginning.
"I have a lot of ideas I want to implement, but for this year, it is business as usual, nothing new or innovative this year," he said. "I think [the changes] will be great when we do them."
With the final day on the NFL's championship Sunday, Alberto will continue with shortened Sunday hours 9 a.m.-3 p.m. He will shortly have the show headliners locked in and already has a stable of seminar presenters with a local emphasis.
There is one notable addition to the show list. The Chicago International Boat Show is slated for Aug. 21-24 at Navy Pier Marina. Chicago has an uneven history with on-water boat shows.
Click here for the master list of outdoors shows, classes, swap meets and major ice fishing events.
