The nation’s longest‑running exposition celebrating Black women, their families, and their communities returns this summer as The Black Women’s Expo (BWe) hosts its highly anticipated 31st annual three‑day event, Friday, July 31 through Sunday, August 2, at McCormick Place – North Building, Hall C1.
This year’s theme — We Matter — highlights an extraordinary line-up of cultural icons, thought leaders, and entertainers who will inspire, empower, and energize attendees throughout the weekend.
“The Black Women’s Expo continues to realize my vision of celebrating the power, resilience, and influence of Black women,” said Merry Green, Founder and Executive Producer of BWe. “This year, we are really emphasizing the ‘We’ in ‘BWe” because we matter. The incredible line-up of special guests, celebrities and performers further echoes just how phenomenal we truly are.”
Main Stage Talent
Joy Reid — Friday, August 1
Political commentator and host of The Joy Reid Podcast, Joy Reid kicks off the weekend with “A Conversation with Joy Reid” at 1:00 p.m. on the Main Stage.
Following her talk, she will host a Meet & Greet + Book Signing in the Literary Café from 3:40 p.m. – 4:15 p.m., then go LIVE with her podcast at 5:00 p.m. in Room N227, featuring guests Mayor Brandon Johnson, Congressman Jonathan Jackson, and Yusef Jackson, President of Rainbow PUSH.
Keke Palmer — Saturday, August 2
Actress, singer, and television host Keke Palmer takes center stage at 2:30 p.m. for “A Conversation with Keke”.
She will then lead an exclusive Pilates Class for 100 women at 4:15 p.m. in Room N230B, showcasing her subscription‑based fitness program Practice by Palmer. Participants will receive a Humana + Practice by Palmer Pilates mat.
Le’Andria Johnson — Sunday, August 3
GRAMMY‑winning gospel powerhouse Le’Andria Johnson, winner of BET’s Sunday Best, headlines Sunday’s Main Stage beginning at 3:00 p.m., joined by the Chicago Mass Choir and Selah’ Youth Choir for an unforgettable afternoon of praise and inspiration.
High‑Impact Seminars & Special Events
Town Hall: Battling for Our Voting Rights — Saturday, August 1 at 1:00 p.m.
Hosted by Congressman Jonathan Jackson, this critical conversation features:
- Congresswoman Joyce Beatty
- Melanie Campbell, National Coalition on Black Civic Participation
- Stefanie Brown James, Collective PAC
Gilead Sciences Girls Brunch — Saturday, August 1 at 11:00 a.m.
A powerful gathering focused on empowerment, followed by a 3:00 p.m. sexual health seminar in Room 227.
Fan‑Favorite Expo Attractions
Attendees will enjoy a vibrant mix of culture, wellness, entertainment, and family‑friendly programming, including:
- Steppin’ Instructions
- R&B Karaoke on the Main Stage
- Hair & Beauty Product Giveaways
- Jesse White Tumblers
- Tasting Lounge featuring Uncle Nearest & Duey Juice
- Culinary Café — chef demos, sampling & free BBQ sauce bottles
- Kidz Korner — activities for children
- Chair Yoga in the Wellness Lounge
- Trampoline Fitness
- And more!
iHeart Radio (V103, WGCI, Inspiration 1390) will broadcast LIVE onsite daily.
Tickets & Expo Hours
Half‑price adult tickets available at all Walgreens locations.
- Friday & Saturday: 10:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m.
- Sunday: 11:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m.
A Special Kickoff: Phenomenal Woman Awards Gala Reception — July 30
The weekend begins with a brief, elegant reception for the Phenomenal Woman Awards Gala Reception on Thursday, July 30 at 6:00 p.m. in the Sky Room of the Obama Presidential Center. The gala reception will be an unforgettable evening dedicated to celebrating extraordinary women whose leadership, service, and achievements continue to uplift and transform communities across the nation. Sponsored by Ada S. McKinley Community Services and Fifth Third Bank.
Sponsors
BWe is proudly supported by an extensive roster of partners, including:
Walgreens, ABC7, iHeart Radio, Northwestern Medicine, ViiV Healthcare, Chicago Department of Public Health, Cook County Public Health, Illinois Department of Public Health, Blue Cross Blue Shield, ComEd, European Wax Center, University of Chicago Medicine, South Side Help Center, Bally’s Casino, Yakult USA, NRG, Self‑Help Federal Credit Union, and more.
About the Black Women’s Expo
The Black Women’s Expo (BWe) is the nation’s longest‑running exposition celebrating Black women and their contributions to culture, business, community, and leadership. Through culture, commerce, education, and entertainment, BWe provides a national platform for connection, empowerment, and economic advancement.
