The 2026 Schedule
We’re stirring up a brand new roster of events in Chicago this year, featuring the best of the “gin-dy” city! Check out what to expect and stay tuned for the full line-up.
September 13 - 20, 2026
Chicago, Illinois
September 13th-20th
Martini Expo Week
The Martini Expo will be preceded by Martini Expo Week, a week-long citywide celebration of the cocktail in question involving the most lauded bars in Chicago. Last year, more than 40 bars took part. Each of the participating bars will feature a special Martini on the menu.
September 15th-17th
Martini Dinner Series
The Dinner Series is a collection of intimate, individually curated dining experiences set in some of Chicago's most storied and celebrated restaurants. Each dinner in the series will be thoughtfully designed in collaboration with the host restaurant to create a cohesive, memorable evening.
September 17th
Martini Tour Through Time
Martini Expo founder and cocktail historian Robert Simonson hosts a bus tour that stops at sites significant in Chicago's history with the Martini, both past and present, with Martini pit stops along the way.
September 18th
Kick-Off Dinner
Set against the backdrop of one of Chicago's most celebrated restaurants, the Martini Expo Kickoff Dinner is the official launch of what promises to be the most exciting cocktail event to hit the city in years. This exclusive evening brings together a carefully curated guest list for a night of exceptional food, perfectly crafted martinis, and the spirited conversations.
September 19th
Martini masters party
at Hawksmoor Chicago
The Martini Mixer is the main event: the Martini Expo at its most electric—a spectacular, one-night cocktail experience that brings together the best bartending talent in the country, an indulgent spread of the finest food and drink, and an atmosphere that is equal parts sophistication and fun.
September 20th
Seminars, Happy Hour, After Party
At Salon 61, Gus' Sip & Dip and Kitty's Cosmopolitan Club
Capping off the Martini Expo week, the Education Program will feature a dynamic lineup of seminars, panels, and hands-on workshops led by some of the most knowledgeable, opinionated, and entertaining voices in the world of cocktails. There will also be a curated pop-up bookshop stocked with essential titles for cocktail enthusiasts and industry professionals alike and a catered walkaround Three Martini Lunch. The week will be capped off by a fun and festive Happy Hour, where our attendees will close out The Martini Expo in style.