The fast-growing cannabis trade show will connect Illinois brands, retail buyers, and budtenders for networking, product showcases, speaker sessions, and deal-making
CHICAGO, July 25, 2025 — Flower Expo, one of the fastest-growing cannabis industry trade shows in the United States, will be returning to Chicago for a two-day edition of Flower Expo Illinois, taking place September 23-24, 2025 at The Geraghty.
Following a single-day Chicago debut on March 25, which turned out more than 250 dispensary decision-makers along with 1,200 budtenders, Flower Expo now brings its classic two-day format to the Windy City. Day One will connect brands with retail buyers and managers in a deal-focused atmosphere, while Day Two welcomes budtenders from around the state to join in on the festivities.
“Our first Chicago event brought out over 60 exhibitors, hundreds of stores, and over one thousand budtenders, all in just one day,” said Flower Expo CEO Jason Bello. “Illinois is one of the most exciting and dynamic cannabis markets in the country, so we immediately knew we had to double down on Chicago and become the go-to event in the marketplace.”
With a strong focus on deal-making, relationship-building, and product exploration, Flower Expo Illinois will feature a diverse mix of national and regional brands, such as STIIIZY, Kiva Confections, MariMed, Realeaf Botanicals, Kanha, Legacy Cannabis, Grön, and Fernway, the latter of which is making its debut in the Illinois market. The event will also include panel discussions through its SESHES speaker series spotlighting leaders from across the industry, as well as food vendors, custom activations, and a shaded consumption lounge.
Organizers are excited about the event’s new venue, The Geraghty, located in the Heart of Chicago neighborhood. “The Geraghty offers more than 60,000 square feet of exhibition space, all in a sleek, modern atmosphere,” said Bello. “Our main expo floor and speaker panels will be located inside, while the outdoor section will feature our lounge, food vendors, and additional booths.”
Illinois remains a growing cornerstone of the U.S. cannabis economy, generating over $1.6 billion in legal sales in 2024. With Chicago serving as a major transportation and cultural hub, the city provides an ideal location to connect brands and buyers across the state and beyond.
Booths and sponsorships are available for licensed operators and ancillary brands, while applications are now open for dispensary buyers, budtenders, media, and prospective SESHES speakers, who may be eligible for complimentary admission. General admission passes are also available for non-exhibiting industry professionals.
For more information or to apply to attend, visit www.theflowerexpo.com/illinois.
About Flower Expo:
At Flower Expo, our mission is to connect and transform the cannabis industry through a professional, high-vibe, and efficient platform. We foster meaningful connections, strategic partnerships, and knowledge exchange to propel the industry forward. With a focus on professionalism, positive energy, and streamlined processes, we empower businesses and individuals to showcase their offerings, inspire innovation, and shape the future of cannabis.
Media Contact:
Flower Expo
(323) 524-4888
