May 16–19, 2026
McCormick Place
Chicago, IL
General Information for Exhibitors
Tips for move in, close of show, and exhibitor hours. Use the Exhibitor Checklist as a show planning tool to ensure you meet all requirements and save money by ordering in advance of the discount dates.
General Information
Exhibitor Checklist
Use this checklist to make sure you are on track for all deadlines. Download the full checklist to your personal calendar, add custom items, and check items off as you complete them. Ordering services in advance of the discount deadline can save you money!
Exhibit Hall Access Hours
View exhibitor hours for move-in, Show days, and move-out.
Attendee Badge Symbol Definitions
Use this onsite as a helpful key for all the badge symbols to correctly identify your leads.
Move-In Information & Instructions
Step-by-step instructions on what you need to do before you arrive and what to do when you arrive on-site.
NOTICE: Label empty crates quickly to help keep the aisles clear and create a safe work environment.
*Labels are available at Floor Manager desks and Freeman Exhibitor Services Centers.
Move-Out Information & Instructions
Review ahead of time and bring on-site to help you move out of the Show quickly without any issues.
Exhibitor Onsite FAQs
Share the Exhibitor Onsite FAQs with your onsite team! General Show information is listed and you can add your booth number and hall to help your team members onsite.
*Some links won’t be active until May. Use this time to add your own internal information to the pdf to share with you team closer to the Show.
Sustainability Tips
The National Restaurant Association Show and Informa are dedicated to setting a standard in environmental responsibility, inclusivity, and accessibility. Throughout the event, we are committed to reducing our environmental footprint by implementing sustainable practices, such as minimizing waste, using eco-friendly materials, and promoting energy efficiency. Learn more here.
Additional Information
Register Your Exhibitor Appointed Contractor
Exhibitors don’t need to complete this form if using Freeman, the Show General Services Contractor. This form must be filled out by the Exhibitor, not the EAC.
Meeting Room Requests
The deadline to request a meeting room at McCormick Place has passed.
For further questions, please reach out to Kristen McBride at kristen.mcbride@informa.com.
Parking Updates & Driving Directions
Purchase your McCormick Place parking before you get to the Show. Search "Restaurant". McCormick Place is located near several major expressways. Take a look at driving directions to determine your best path.
Export Interest Directory
Fill this out if you are a U.S. exhibitor who exports out of the country.
Login to your Exhibitor Dashboard to fill out the form now!
International Exhibitor Resources
Visa Letter of Invitation
Download our letter of invitation if you're an international exhibitor
International Freight Forwarder
Your booth has a specific date that your materials must arrive by direct shipping. This date is also the date you can arrive onsite if you are hand-carrying your material.
Find Your Target Check-In Date
Reach out to our Customs Broker Official Service Provider if you need assistance shipping food and beverage internationally.
International Exhibitor Resources
View our Exhibitor International Resources that includes a travel brief with Visa and COVID-19 Vaccination & Testing Requirements, Freeman International Resources, and more.
Disclaimer*
*Beware of communications from fraudulent vendors who do NOT have a 2026 Official Service Provider Seal in any communications you receive. We do not sell our database information; any company not listed here should be considered as possibly fraudulent.
Should you choose to engage in a business relationship with a company that is NOT an Official National Restaurant Service Provider, the National Restaurant Association Show and Informa cannot vouch for their legitimacy, nor endorse their services.
