As a proud sponsor of the Wintrust Magnificent Mile Lights Festival, we had a wonderful time kicking off Illinois’ holiday season in style on November 19. Joining us on and around the Enjoy Illinois parade float were Big Lincoln, the legendary C&C Music Factory and Chicago’s very own Curie Metropolitan High School dancers—creating a fun, festive experience for the whole family.
In preparation for Small Business Saturday, we released the 2022 Illinois Made Holiday Gift Guide to give shoppers an opportunity to find original gifts that are unique to Illinois, all while supporting the diverse local businesses that give our state its authentic charm. We will continue to promote this guide as the holiday season ramps up in December.
This season is a
time to show gratitude, and we at the Illinois Office of Tourism appreciate the hard work and support of all our industry partners. Thank you for collaborating with us and each other throughout the year to drive our state forward and advocate for the one-of-a-kind businesses and destinations that make this such a great place to live, work and play.
During the conference, attendees will have the opportunity to network and hear from several dynamic speakers who will offer their views on the future of tourism, workplace culture, connecting with Gen Z travelers and how to best change and thrive in the year ahead.
If you are attending, don’t forget to team up with your colleagues to represent your attraction or region
during Destination Day on Wednesday, December 7. Wear attire that features your logo, your colors, or some other creative element to showcase your destination.
And remember, at the end of Wednesday’s program, one lucky attendee will be awarded two round-trip economy tickets from Air New Zealand. So make sure to stick around for the full
program!
In October, Governor Pritzker and the Illinois Department of Commerce & Economic Opportunity (DCEO) announced nearly $3 million in funding to support local tourism promotional efforts across the state through the Illinois Travel and Tourism Grant Program.
Applications for grants will be accepted until December 12, 2022. You can apply here.
On November 16, we inducted 30 new Makers into the Illinois Made program, which now features 236 small businesses from every region of the state. The 2022 Illinois Makers class is the most diverse group since the program was launched, with more than 60 percent of businesses owned by women or people of color. Representing a wide range of businesses—from bakeries and breweries to restaurants, retail shops and farms—these Makers offer unique experiences and authentic products that help inspire travel throughout Illinois. If someone you know is interested in becoming a Maker, please feel free to nominate them for next year’s class.
Whether it’s world-class shopping on the Magnificent Mile or seeing nature lit up in all its glory at The Morton Arboretum’s “Illumination: Tree Lights” festival, Illinois is full of magical holiday experiences. You can find inspiration for winter road trips, cozy restaurants, holiday hotel stays and more in the Enjoy Illinois Magazine.
