Wrestlefest Chicago October 2-4 2026 10/02/2026

DADS & LADS OPEN MATS 1-4PM @ Chicagopiledriver's house 1629 N Hermitage Ave, Chicago, IL 60622

Everyone is welcome to an open mats session at Chicagopiledriver's house. The theme of the session is "Dads & Lads" where older and younger wrestlers can challenge one another, but the session is not restricted to just that theme. All wrestling styles are welcome - pro, submission, erotic, trading holds. There will be 2 open mats spaces that can support 2 matches at the same time. There's a bathroom and shower for guys to change and clean up after their matches. Water, Gatorade and some snacks will be available. Respect for all wrestlers, and safe and sane wrestling is expected.

OPENING NIGHT PARTY 6-9pm @ HYDRATE NIGHTCLUB 3458 N Halsted St, Chicago, IL 60657

We kick-off the weekend with a party at Hydrate. There is NO FEE for the party, just pay for your drinks and tip your bartenders. Feel free to wear your favorite singlet or wrestling gear to the party. There will be a clothes check service at the bar so you can easily strip down. The official WF Chicago wristbands and name tags will be given out at this event. Enjoy the music, meeting other wrestlers, and connecting with friends for the evening.

Some suggestions for after the party:

Challenge someone to a match at the Opening Party and go back to your hotel room to wrestle :)

Check out Steamworks - Chicago's legendary bath house located just down the street from Hydrate at 3246 N Halsted St, Chicago, IL 60657

Gay friendly bars nearby:
Cell Block 3702 N Halsted St
Roscoe's Tavern 3356 N Halsted St