The NBA All-Star Game is years in the making. When Chicago was named the host of this weekend’s All-Star festivities in 2017, the planning began. As much as the 2020 edition of the game – the 69th event and third time it has been played in Chicago – is a chance for the NBA to show off it’s best side, the All-Star Game is also a chance for the city to shine.
Navy Pier will spotlight celebrities from basketball, art and music this weekend at NBA Crossover. Held in and around the Aon Ballroom, companies are vying for the attention of families with kid-friendly experiences to try.
Hoop it up
Kia’s basketball hoop counts made shots and shouts encouragement.
There are a ton of places to perfect your shot. From a digital game by AT&T that four friends or family members can challenge each other for supremacy, to a basketball hoop by Kia that counts shots and feels like playing street basketball. There is also a court built in the middle of the floor of the Aon Ballroom where NBA legends and stars will be, literally, holding court with interviews and discussions all weekend.
Art a plenty
NBA Lab art reimagining “Bulls Head” for the Chicago Bulls.
It’s not all about basketball. Artists like Chuck Anderson, Shannon Favia and Louis De Guzman have lent their talents to the weekend’s discussions and events. Check out a Chicago Bulls-inspired work while walking to the Aon Ballroom with a reinterpretation of Picasso’s well-known Bull’s Head by graffiti, street and contemporary artists.
Legends hold court
NBA’s finest like Lauri Markkanen, Robert Horry, Jayson Tatum, Ron Harper, Muggsy Bogues, George Gervin, Donovan Mitchell and many, many more will talk to fans and interviewers in multiple areas around the Aon Ballroom. Inside the ballroom is a court designed for staging such talks and outside, beyond sales for basketball merchandise, is a cozy, intimate conversation area for more discussions. Download the NBA Events app for a complete schedule.
Music and live performances
Musical guests will grace the stage all weekend long.
The Happiness Club, Future Kingz, Puku, Quantrelle, K’Valentine and Melo Makes Music will grace the stage in the intimate setting for live performances. Many more are slated all weekend with chances for families to take in the sounds of the All-Star game as well as the hoops.
If you go
Feb. 14-16 (timed ticket required)
Navy Pier, 600 E. Grand Ave., Chicago
$20 single-day admission; $55 three-day pass
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