The Illinois Council of the Blind (ICB) holds a convention, usually in the Spring of each year. Sometimes, these conventions are hybrid, meaning that attendees have two ways to attend. They can either join us in person at a hotel somewhere in Illinois. They can also join in on the activities via Zoom or listen on ACB Media. Sometimes, the conventions are held virtually, meaning that all activities take place on Zoom and are broadcast on ACB Media.
Regardless of which format the convention takes, they are filled with programming that is designed to be educational, fun and interactive. There are also exhibits, especially at the hybrid events where conventioneers can see and touch different products or learn about different services available to them. There are also meal functions and social opportunities for those who attend hybrid conventions in person, along with a memorial service where we take the time to remember those who have passed away that played important roles in ICB or the Illinois Blindness community. And finally, business sessions are held where we conduct organizational business such as adopting resolutions and conducting elections.
Convention 2026
The 2026 ICB Convention will take place as a hybrid event from Friday, April 24 to Sunday, April 26, 2026. We will gather in person at the President Abraham Lincoln Hotel, 701 East Adams Street in Springfield, Illinois. If you want to make hotel reservations for the convention, you can call 217-544-8800 to reserve a room. Be sure to mention you are with the Illinois Council of the Blind Convention to get our room rate. You may also Make a Reservation by Following This Link. Room rate is $123 plus tax per night, and our room block closes on April 2, and our hotel is part of the Hilton Hotels family. In addition to the convention dates listed, we will have our initial convention business session as a virtual event on Zoom on Tuesday, April 21.
Our convention committee is hard at work planning the activities and programs for the convention. You can contact the Convention Committee with ideas by sending them to the ICB Office or by calling 217-523-4967.