Host an event at 1871
Host an event at 1871
The vibrant town hall where people come to learn, grow, and be inspired.
Happy hosts
Hear from some past clients why booking your event at 1871 is a guaranteed win!
“1871 was a great setting for our company all-staff retreat. We’re located in the Merchandise Mart so having access to a larger space right here in the building was very convenient. We were looking for an energizing and creative space with lots of light and the 1871 Auditorium was the perfect fit for a group our size. The events team was helpful in planning and execution and the front desk staff is always so friendly and welcoming!”
Jeanne Reidy,
General Manager, Kivvit
“1871 has been such a great partner in helping us bring our ThinkChicago programs from ideation to reality. We have hosted a wide range of events and guests in the space, and the staff is always super flexible in helping us meet the specific needs of each. The customer service received at 1871 makes even the smallest team feel fully supported in building vendor relationships, navigating logistics, and utilizing technology to enhance the guest experience. The community and atmosphere provide a great backdrop to any event focused towards to tech and innovation. We will definitely host future programs with 1871!”
Trenton Dunn
ThinkChicago Program Manager, World Business Chicago
“The IHCC believes in exposing our membership to the 1871 ecosystem is vital for entrepreneurs. The 1871 team is very welcoming and professional which is key to making our events a success. The space itself is equipped with state of the art A/V which is simple to use and elevates our events.”
Ivette Trevino
Senior Director, IHCC
Amenities
Our wide range of services makes it easy for you to focus on the big picture, while we handle the little details!
All-inclusive pricing
Flexible event spaces
Fully AV and WiFi-equipped
Facilities and day-of event staff
Convenient River North location
Event hosting options
Our event experiences are designed to fit your accessibility needs!
IRL
In-person at our Chicago headquaters
Hybrid
Tie in to your virtual platform
VR
Create an avatar in our virtual reality campusÂ
Interested in partnering with 1871 on a topic? Reach out to us to discuss sponsorship and event format options.
Available spaces
Our wide range of flexible event spaces can fit any need.
Auditorium
Our largest event space is perfect for your next panel, keynote speaker, demo day, or reception.
1.25 classroom
Complete with five breakout rooms and plentiful natural light, this space is ideal for your team off-site, workshop or interactive event.
3.12 classroom
This private and off-the-beaten path space is best for mid-sized events including panels, leadership meetings and workshops.
South classroom
Close to the heart of 1871, this space is ideal for board meetings, small panels and team offsites.
Conference rooms
1871 has several conference rooms that can be utilized for small meetings, breakout spaces, or meetups.
Reach out to the Events team to discuss all available options and to obtain more information about each space.
We're Chicago-based
Go to the 12th floor of the Merchandise Mart, which is located on the North side of the river between Wells and Orleans.
Connect with us
Our events pod
Our dedicated events team will help you create and customize your events to meet your business, exposure, and content goals. Direct questions can go to [email protected].Â
Kaylin Berg
Director of Events
Tenille Johnson
Sr. Manager of Events
Sophie Kowaleski
Events Coordinator
Are you a current 1871 member? Fill out the event request form on the Member Portal!
