Chicago Sets the Stage for IPW 2025 with a Star-Spangled Press Brunch at Wrigley Field
With the crack of bats echoing through historic Wrigley Field, the countdown to IPW 2025 began in grand style during a press brunch that was as spirited as the city itself.
Hosted by Choose Chicago and attended by international media, the event united industry leaders, local officials, and global voices in a celebration of tourism, unity, and the unmistakable allure of Chicago.
The event opened with a warm welcome from Mayor Brandon Johnson, who proudly showcased the city’s cultural vibrancy and resilience. “Chicago has been named the best big city in the U.S. by the readers of Condé Nast Traveler for eight consecutive years,” he declared. “After this week, I know you all are going to vote for us for the ninth.”
In his rousing remarks, Mayor Johnson paid tribute to the city’s 77 neighborhoods, calling them “the soul of America” and emphasizing their diversity, history, and natural beauty. “20% of the world's freshwater is right in our front yard,” he said, referencing Lake Michigan. “Wherever you decide to eat, there are no places on Earth like Chicago when it comes to our palate.”
Turning his attention to the audience — a kaleidoscope of international media, buyers, and partners — Johnson added, “Looking out in the stands today… gives me hope not just for our democracy, but for humanity across the globe.”
For Kristen Reynolds, newly appointed President and CEO of Choose Chicago, the event was both a welcome and a debut. “I've been in this role for about five weeks, so I can’t take credit for all the hard work,” she said with a smile. “But what you’re seeing is more than just a city with endless things to see and do — it’s a community.”
Reynolds invited visitors to discover Chicago’s layers: iconic landmarks, global cuisine, and music and sports culture, including the James Beard Awards and series like The Bear. “Chicago is a city that is never done and never outdone,” she said, promising a week filled with immersive tours and a music-themed bash at the Field Museum, concluding with fireworks at Navy Pier.
Geoff Freeman, President and CEO of the U.S. Travel Association, emphasized the tangible impact of IPW. “We’re going to drive more than 11 million additional visitors to the United States, about $26 billion in future travel spending,” he stated. With 5,000 attendees, including 1,800 international buyers and media from 64 countries, the stakes are high — and the opportunity, monumental.
Freeman applauded Chicago’s hosting efforts and introduced long-time collaborator and leader in destination marketing, Fred Dixon, President and CEO of Brand USA.
“Meaningful stories create meaningful journeys,” Dixon told the crowd. “Through your work, you bring the spirit and uniqueness of the United States and great cities like Chicago to life.” He pointed to Brand USA’s global initiatives, including the MLB Tokyo Series and upcoming celebrations like the Route 66 Centennial, the FIFA World Cup, and America 250. “These are more than events — they are demand generators for inbound tourism,” Dixon emphasized.
He reminded guests that travel isn’t just about places, but experiences, communities, and culture. “Whether it's sports, cuisine, or the timeless American road trip, there is a story waiting to be told in every corner of the United States.”
As the brunch ended with Cubs cheers and skyline selfies, one message was clear: Chicago is not just ready to host IPW 2025 — it’s ready to inspire the world.
