The Counterculture Industry Descends on the Midwest For CHAMPS Chicago
Join us June 10th – 12th at the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center
As we head into the final stretch of spring, the energy surrounding one of the Midwest’s most anticipated industry events is reaching a boiling point. From June 10th through the 12th, 2025, CHAMPS Trade Shows returns to the Donald E. Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, Illinois, for CHAMPS Chicago; a high-impact, business-to-business marketplace built to connect the industry’s top brands with verified retail buyers from across the country.
For over 26 years, CHAMPS has served as the launchpad and meeting ground in top cities across the US for the smoke shop, vape, glass, hemp, novelty gift and lifestyle industries. Now, we’re back in the Midwest for three days of serious commerce, cultural energy, and community connection.
Whether you’re a seasoned retailer looking to stock your shelves with new product lines or a brand seeking to expand your reach, next week CHAMPS Chicago is the place to be.
At CHAMPS Chicago, buyers can expect more than just a show floor, they’ll step into a curated marketplace built for discovery, dealmaking, and growth. From show-only product drops and exclusive wholesale deals to hands-on demos and live education, this event is designed to help retailers stay ahead of what’s trending and what’s next.
Whether you’re restocking proven sellers or scouting the next wave of innovation in vape, glass, hemp, botanicals, or functional lifestyle products, CHAMPS delivers the direct access you need to make informed, profitable decisions.
From here, you’ll want to mark your calendar for key events, seminars, and experiences that can shape your business for the rest of the year. Let’s break down what’s waiting for you on the floor.
Walk In. Cash Out. Win $1,000 at CHAMPS Chicago
We’re giving away $1,000 in cold, hard cash every single day of CHAMPS Chicago, and getting entered couldn’t be easier.
If you’re a verified retail buyer who’s confirmed your attendance and received a QR code, you’re automatically in the running each day. No gimmicks, no extra forms, no last-minute sign-ups. Just show up, check in, get your badge, and listen for your name over the PA to see if you’ve won!
Whether you’re hitting the floor to stock your shop, discover emerging brands, or reconnect with longtime partners, you’re not just investing in your business, you’re getting rewarded for it.
But you can’t win if you’re not registered.
To qualify, all buyers must:
- ✅ Submit two forms of business ID for verification
- ✅ Confirm attendance once approved to receive your show QR code
- ✅ Check in at the show to activate your entry
Three days. Three prizes. $3,000 up for grabs.
If you haven’t already, start your registration now at www.champstradeshows.com
Live Glass Action In The Windy City
Once again, the CHAMPS Glass Games will be front and center, bringing the heat, the pressure, and the fire of live glassblowing straight to the show floor.
This year’s showdown features five Demo Artists working side by side at dedicated Collaboration Stations, with heady art being created in real time.
The highlight? Our high-stakes 20-Minute Competition, where selected artists are given a surprise theme, three minutes to strategize, and just 20 minutes to execute their vision before the flame goes cold. One by one, competitors are eliminated until a single winner remains.
It’s fast, fierce, unforgettable, and only at CHAMPS Chicago.
Education That Keeps You in the Game
CHAMPS isn’t just a marketplace, it’s a source of critical knowledge and legislative insight, especially in a climate where policy changes can disrupt entire categories overnight. It’s also a place for discussion around critical issues where voices have a place to be heard.
Join us in Room 21 on Wednesday, June 11, for two seminars you can’t afford to miss:
🕐 1:00PM – 2:00PM
Stopping Synthetics From Killing Kratom in America
Presented by the American Kratom Association (AKA) and led by Mac Haddow, this session explores how unregulated synthetics are potentially threatening kratom’s future. From safety concerns to legislative backlash, Haddow will unpack the looming threats and offer advocacy strategies for preserving access and public trust.
🕒 3:00PM – 4:00PM
What’s Next for Hemp Product in Texas & Illinois?
Hosted by AHAA President JD McCormick, this session dives deep into two of the most volatile hemp markets in the U.S. Texas is battling aggressive bans, while Illinois prepares for major regulatory shifts. This seminar will equip attendees with real-time updates, political context, and tools to stay compliant while growing their business.
Navigate Like a Pro with CHAMPSMap.com
Say goodbye to wandering aimlessly. Whether you’re zeroing in on specific categories, prioritizing meetings, or trying to catch a live demo, CHAMPSMap.com is your best friend.
Our official interactive map lets you pre-plan your visit, locate your must-see booths, discover new exhibitors, and access live updates throughout the event. It’s the smartest way to maximize every minute at CHAMPS.
A Special Thanks to CHAMPS Chicago’s Platinum Sponsors
We’re proud to spotlight our Platinum Sponsors for CHAMPS Chicago, each bringing serious innovation to the show:
- J Brands – www.VapeTyson.com (BOOTH 3011)
Featuring Tyson 2.0 and other bold-name drops, J Brands brings celebrity-powered momentum and disruptive product innovation to the vape category. - Mellow Fellow – www.MellowFellow.fun (BOOTH 3001)
With a science-first approach to cannabinoid blends, Mellow Fellow is pioneering how we think about functional cannabinoids and consumer experience. - Demand Vape – www.DemandVape.com (BOOTH 2009)
One of the most trusted names in vapor distribution, Demand Vape delivers top-tier brands, consistent supply chains, and serious buyer loyalty.
Be sure to visit them on the show floor and discover why they’re setting the pace for the rest of the market. We’ll see everyone next week in Chicago!
