Best Big City Day (10/10) October 10, 2026

The City of Chicago is officially declaring Saturday, October 10 “Best Big City Day” in celebration of the city’s 10th year as the Best Big City in the U.S.

How to celebrate Best Big City Day

• House Party on the Chicago Riverwalk: Head to the Chicago Riverwalk to enjoy a floating house party by pioneering DJ Lori Branch. The Best Big City boat will be docked near City Winery Chicago Riverwalk from approximately 3:30 – 4:30 p.m.
• Perfect 10 beer: Legendary Chicago brewery Goose Island will be serving a limited-edition “Perfect 10” beer at its brewpubs on Fulton Street and at The Salt Shed.
• Best Big City Eli’s Cheesecake: Eli’s Cheesecake will be offering a special-edition version of the iconic Chicago dessert, featuring samples of four classic flavors.

Locals are encouraged to get out and explore their city using custom itineraries. Spread the news on social with Choose Chicago or share what you love about Chicago through All for the Love of Chicago.

Visitors can find trip-planning inspiration and start planning a fall or winter getaway to the Best Big City in the country.

About the award

The prestigious Readers’ Choice Awards by Condé Nast Traveler is the industry’s longest-running and most trusted awards program.

This year, nearly 800,000 travelers from around the world cast their votes — weighing in on each city’s culture, attractions, hospitality, and more.

Chicago is the only city to earn the title of Best Big City for 10 consecutive years since the awards debuted in 1988.