Chicago is gearing up to host the highly anticipated WNBA All-Star Weekend in 2026, marking a significant moment for women's basketball. This year's festivities are expected to be grander than ever, underscoring the sport's expanding popularity and influence. The event will culminate in the All-Star Game at the iconic United Center, drawing together top talent and dedicated fans for a weekend of celebration and competition.
WNBA All-Star Weekend: A Detailed Guide to Events in Chicago
The WNBA All-Star Weekend, set for July 21, 2026, in Chicago, promises a dynamic three-day schedule filled with basketball action and community engagement. The main event, the All-Star Game, will see two formidable teams led by WNBA legends Teresa Weatherspoon and Cynthia Cooper. Team Coop will feature stars like Paige Bueckers, Breanna Stewart, and Angel Reese, while Team Spoon will showcase talents such as Caitlin Clark, A'ja Wilson, and Olivia Miles. The specifics for the 3-point contest and skills challenge, taking place at Wintrust Arena on Friday, are yet to be announced.
Main Events:
- WNBA Live: A free festival at McCormick Place from Thursday evening through Saturday, offering fan interactions, merchandise, and games.
- 3-point contest and Shooting Stars: Scheduled for Friday at 7 p.m. at Wintrust Arena.
- WNBA All-Star Game: The highlight event, commencing at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday at the United Center.
Weekend-Long Pop-Up:
- TOGETHXR House: Located at 113 N. Elizabeth St., Fulton Market, this pop-up on Friday and Saturday will host branded events, giveaways, and appearances by athletes like Cameron Brink and Jordan Chiles.
Thursday:
- WNBA All-Star Community Health Walk: Starting at 9 a.m. at Jackson Park, this free event, in partnership with Evernorth Health Services and GirlTREK, includes wellness activities and skin cancer screenings.
Friday:
- Cousins Camp: A free skills camp and pickup runs at The Sport House, 1301 E. 47th St., presented by Clubhouse Buckets and Off the Dribble.
- 'Unsupervised with Syd and TP' live podcast: Former WNBA players Sydney Colson and Theresa Plaisance will record a live episode at TOGETHXR House at 10:45 a.m.
- Unrivaled Coffee Club: An all-day event at Drip Collective, 172 N. Racine Ave., featuring player appearances, coffee service, merchandise, and a live DJ. Reservations required for this free event.
- Live podcasts: 'Flagrant and Funny' and 'Good Game': iHeartMedia will host live recordings at Level Sporting Club, 3343 N. Clark St., at 12:30 p.m. Admission is free.
- Wine-Up for the Weekend: La Crema sponsors a wine night at Babe's Sports Bar, 3017 W. Armitage Ave., from 4 p.m. onwards, with giveaways and specials.
- Hoop Social 'The Cousin' All-Star Weekend Link Up: An evening event from 9 p.m. to midnight at Centre Court Productions, 469 N. Racine Ave., featuring a live DJ, food, drinks, and a playback of the 2025 WNBA All-Star Game. Tickets are $55-65.
Saturday:
- Morning run with Peloton: A free run led by Peloton instructors Jess Sims and Kirsten Ferguson, starting at 9:30 a.m. at TOGETHXR House, followed by coffee and conversation.
- Queens of the Court panel: South Carolina coach Dawn Staley, Hall of Famer Diana Taurasi, and WNBA player Raven Johnson will discuss the future of women's basketball investment at Fulton Market, 167 N. Green St., at 11 a.m. This is a free event.
- Party Like It's 1996: Babe's Sports Bar will celebrate the legacy of former women's pro leagues from noon to 4 p.m., hosted by Cathy Boswell. Free admission.
- Just Women's Sports Spot: Chicago's Unofficial Pregame at Bottom Lounge, 1375 W. Lake St., from 2-6 p.m., offering music, games, giveaways, and player meet-and-greets. Free admission with complimentary drinks for the first 100 guests.
- Faces of the League Skills Challenge: Former WNBA players Sydney Colson and Theresa Plaisance will host an hour-long skills challenge for fans at TOGETHXR House at 2:30 p.m. Free admission.
- Party Like An All-Star: Babe's Sports Bar will host a watch party from 5 p.m. to close, with drink specials and giveaways.
- Basketball Is My Therapy Watch Party and After Party: DJs Ca$h Era and Kidd Swag will host an event from 6 p.m. to 2 a.m. at Origin, 2010 W. Armitage Ave., with giveaways, prizes, and appearances by current NCAA and WNBA players. Costs vary from $20 to $40 for bundles.
- Lesbian Social Club Beach Party: An outdoor dance party at Whispers at Oak Street Beach, 1001 N. Lakeshore Drive, from 4-9 p.m. Cost is $20.
- Toasted Life WNBA All-Star Weekend Day Party: A day party at Blind Barber, 948 W. Fulton Market, from 6-10 p.m., featuring a live DJ and dancing. Cost is $24.
Sunday:
- Life After Ball: WNBA All-Star WKND Brunch Finale: A brunch at Level Sporting Club at noon, with bottomless mimosas, a live DJ, and a live recording of the 'Life After Ball' podcast. Tickets start at $40, with an additional $20 for bottomless mimosas.
- Camp Hangover: A free recovery event at Babe's Sports Bar from noon to 3 p.m., offering breakfast sandwiches from Smash Jibarito.
The return of the WNBA All-Star Weekend to Chicago in such a comprehensive format signifies a remarkable evolution for women's professional basketball. Beyond the electrifying games, the array of community and social events fosters a deeper connection between players and fans, highlighting the league's commitment to engagement and growth. This spectacle not only celebrates athletic prowess but also reinforces the WNBA's expanding cultural footprint, inspiring new generations and cementing its place in the hearts of sports enthusiasts. The diverse range of activities, from health walks to live podcasts, reflects a holistic approach to sports entertainment, making this weekend a vibrant testament to the power and potential of women's sports.
