Get ready to kick off the 2025 NFDA International Convention & Expo in true Chicago style! On Sunday, October 26, from 6 to 8 p.m., we’re taking over the iconic House of Blues (329 N. Dearborn St.) for a roaring Prohibition-era celebration that’s sure to be the cat’s meow.

Hosted by NFDA President Christopher P. Robinson, CFSP, CCO, and sponsored by Batesville and Legacy.com, this year’s Welcome Party invites you to step back into the 1920s – a decade of jazz, secret cocktails and endless fun.

Enjoy complimentary small bites, cash bars, and dazzling entertainment as you mix and mingle with colleagues from around the world. Throughout the night, you’ll encounter tarot card readers, typewriter poets, live music, whiskey tastings, roaming entertainers and high-energy dance performances. Feeling brave? Join in the “Charleston” dance lessons and show off your moves!

Pro tip: Come dressed to impress in your finest flapper fringe, pinstripes, or fedora – the more sparkle, the better.

Important: House of Blues Security Policy

Bags larger than 12”x12”x6” are not permitted. All bags will be searched. No weapons of any kind are allowed.

Event Timeline

• 6 p.m. – Doors open
  • The Big Cheese (VIP Entrance): Show your NFDA Convention App and the secret password (to be revealed via app notification).
  • The Cat’s Meow (General Admission): Show your NFDA Convention App or your Convention badge.
  • The Bootleggers (No App, No Badge): We’ll check your name on the list – if you’re registered, you’re in!
• 6 p.m. – Entertainment begins; bars and appetizer stations open
  • Howlin’ Wolf Bar (Level 2): pre-batched cocktails, beer, and wine
  • Satellite Bar (Level 3): canned beverages
  • Foundation Dining Room & Lounge Bars (upper levels): full bar service
• 6:30–7:30 p.m. – Dance vignettes, live music, tarot readings, and typewriter poetry
• 7 p.m. – Charleston dance lessons
• 7:30 p.m. – Final dance performance
• Dessert stations and a giant coloring mural available throughout the evening.

Getting There

No shuttle service will be provided from the Millennium Park hotels (Fairmont, Hyatt Regency, Radisson Blu, Swissôtel).

Hilton Garden Inn Shuttle runs 5:45–8:30 p.m. (every 20–30 minutes).

Last shuttle departs Hilton Garden Inn at 7 p.m.

Last shuttle departs House of Blues at 8 p.m.

It’s the Party of the Decade – Don’t Miss It!

With vintage vibes, bootleg spirits, and a night packed with music and laughter, this year’s Welcome Party is your chance to celebrate, connect, and kick off Convention with a bang.

Shhh… don’t tell the feds — we’ll see you at the speakeasy!