Answer: "Chicago: "We're Glad You're Here!" is a citywide recognition program created to welcome convention and trade show delegates to Chicago. It was launched in March of 1999 by Mayor Daley, and since then has been very successful in welcoming millions of visitors to the City. It has also contributed to the decision of numerous groups to bring their shows to Chicago again and again. Click here for video clip, courtesy of the Chicago Convention and Tourism Bureau. [In order to view this clip, you must have either Real Player or Microsoft Player, both of which may be downloaded to your P.C. for free. Please allow several seconds to download the clip from your browser.] Click here to visit the website for the Chicago Convention and Tourism Bureau.

Question: Why was it started?

Answer: "Chicago: We're glad You're Here" came at a very crucial time. Many other cities were announcing plans to expand their convention facilities to accommodate shows that, at one time, could only be hosted by McCormick Place. With increased competition, Mayor Daley quickly realized that Chicago needed to provide more than an ideal convention facility. He wanted show producers, managers, their attendees and exhibitors to feel like their events were special and important to the City. Through various "Chicago: We're Glad You're Here!" welcome initiatives, they do!

Question: What are these initiatives?

Answer: The basic elements of the "Chicago: We're Glad You're Here!" program include: personalized banners on street poles throughout the city welcoming the shows to Chicago; "Chicago: We're Glad You're Here" signage displayed in hotel lobbies, restaurants, retail stores, and at various cultural attractions; the wearing of CWGYH buttons by employees of the city's hospitality industry; the distribution of a discount coupon book for delegates to use as they visit various Chicago establishments.

Question: Why Should I get involved?

Answer: The convention and trade show industry is a major economic force in Chicago. Imagine being a visitor to our city and seeing the "Chicago: We're Glad You're Here!" logo at various locations throughout the day! Trade show managers and producers have told us that our program is making a difference. Not only do they feel good about brining their show to Chicago, but also their attendees and exhibitors instantly recognize that Chicago appreciates them. (Picasso photo courtesy Peter Schulz).

Question: Is there a fee to participate?

Answer: Absolutely not! There is no cost to be part of the "Chicago: We're Glad You're Here!" program.

How can I get involved and learn more?

Answer: We need every member of Chicago's hospitality industry to participate in this program and getting involved is simple. One way is to download and print out the application form and fax it to CWGYH at 312/567-8577. (Use Adobe Acrobat to download application.) You can call the CWGYH Hotline at 1-800/388-6901 or email them at: CWGYH@choosechicago.com To serve as a volunteer at one of the Chicago Airports, contact Nelli Stefanski at 773/686-2300.

Additional Website Information:

Choose Chicago

Chicago Office of Tourism

Chicago Events from the Mayor's Office of Special Events

Chicago Greeter Program