Social Events
Get ready to party like a planner at the 2023 APA-IL State Conference! APA-IL's social events are the ultimate playground for networking, laughter, and unforgettable memories. From the high-energy Murder Mystery Dinner to the sparkling Awards Reception, every moment promises excitement. Don't miss your chance to connect, celebrate, and have a blast with fellow urban planning enthusiasts. See you on the social side! 🥳
!! Please note: items on this page are subject to change !!
Awards Reception &
Exhibitor Meet & Greet
Monday,, September 11, 2023
4:30 PM - 6:30 PM
Location: Wentz Concert Hall Lobby
Cost: included with registration. Awards guests can purchase a ticket. Heavy appetizers are included.
After the Awards Program, mingle with award winners and exhibitors at the meet and greet immediately following the awards. This reception joins you and other attendees, sponsors, and exhibitors.
​
This complimentary event is open to all attendees. Please RSVP when registering so we may have an accurate headcount.

Planning at Illinois Reception
Monday, September 11, 2023
6:00 PM - 8:00 PM
Location: Empire Burgers & Brew, 48 W. Chicago Ave., Naperville
Cost: $0
​
The Department of Urban and Regional Planning cordially invites you to a special reception for our current students and alumni at the upcoming APA Illinois State Conference in Naperville, IL.
​
The event is free but RSVPs are appreciated. RSVP here.
UIC CUPPA 50th Anniversary Celebration Pop Up Event
Monday, September 11, 2023
Time 7:30 pm - 9:30 pm
Location: UIC, Art and Exhibition Hall, 400 S Peoria St., Chicago, IL
Transportation: bus leaves Wentz Concert Hall @ 6:40 to Chicago, bus departs 9:00 pm to return to Naperville
Cost: $0
​
Join the celebration! Its the 50th Anniversary of the UIC Department of Urban Planning and Policy! For five decades, UPP has educated a diverse student body to face complex urban issues across spatial scales.
​
As part of the APA-IL Conference, we invite you to stop by the 5th Floor of the Art and Exhibition Hall (adjacent to CUPPA Hall) to mix and mingle with alums, faculty, staff, and friends of UPP. Enjoy light bites and beverages, plus a short program with amazing speakers. We look forward to seeing you there!
​
Click here for more details and to register!
​
Questions? Contact April Jackson.

Murder Mystery Dinner
Tuesday, September 12, 2023
5:45 PM - 8:00 PM
Location: Madden Theater (within Wentz Concert Hall)
Cost: $40, buffet dinner included
Have you ever gotten out of a public hearing and just felt like death? How about delivered a presentation that really killed? If you know your Agatha Christie from your Chris Christie, your Poirot from your Le Corbusier, your stiletto from your charette-o then the world’s first Urban Planning themed murder mystery night might just be for you!
Lotsodough & Son are pleased to invite you to the public hearing for their high-quality development proposal. As responsible corporate neighbors, the company is pleased to announce a buffet dinner for all who attend.
Please note - in case anybody happens to get murdered during the course of the hearing, attendees will either be suspects or detectives. While murder is never desirable at a public hearing, it should always be anticipated.
Phil Green, AICP & Glen Cole, AICP are back to bring together Illinois’ best planners in an attempt to solve a murder most foul.

CNU Happy Hour
Wednesday, September 13, 2023
4:30 PM - 6:30 PM
Location: Hizemans, 218 S. Washington St., Naperville
Cost: $0
​
All are welcome to close out the 2023 APA IL State Conference with a happy hour, hosted by the Center for New Urbanism Illinois (CNU Illinois).
The Hizemans is located just around the corner from Wentz Concert Hall, making it convenient for attendees to join CNU’s festivities.
