Going to MAS ICNA 2025? Your Survival Guide & Booth Map
The Big Weekend is Finally Here!
Thousands of Muslims from across North America are descending on Chicago this December 26-28 for the MAS ICNA Convention. It is a beautiful time of brotherhood, knowledge, and shopping. But if you have been before, you know it can also be exhausting.
At The Topi Wala, we want you to have the best experience possible. Here are our top tips for surviving (and enjoying) the weekend at McCormick Place.
1. Wear Comfortable Shoes We cannot stress this enough. McCormick Place is massive. You will be walking miles between the lecture halls, the prayer area, and the bazaar. Leave the stiff dress shoes at home and wear your most comfortable sneakers (or wear our Mens Thobes with comfortable walking sandals if you are brave enough for the cold!).
2. Plan Your Shopping Strategy The Bazaar is huge and gets incredibly crowded, especially on Saturday afternoon.
Pro Tip: Visit the bazaar Friday morning or early Saturday to get the best sizes before they sell out.
Where to Find Us: We are located at Booth B74 & C73. Come say salaam and check out our new Winter Collection—we have exclusive convention discounts running all weekend!
3. Layer Up Chicago in December is freezing, but the convention center can get warm with so many people. The key is layering. Wear a t-shirt, then your Thobe, and top it off with a warm Turkish Coat or jacket that you can easily take off once you are inside.
4. Stay Hydrated & Snack Smart Lines for food can be long. Keep a water bottle and some granola bars in your backpack so you don't get "hangry" (hungry + angry) while waiting for the next speaker.
5. Don't Miss the Main Sessions While shopping is fun, the real benefit is the knowledge. Check the schedule app and pick 2-3 "must-see" lectures per day.
6. Dress Up for the Evening Sessions The daytime sessions are casual, but Saturday night's main stage program draws a bigger, dressier crowd. If you're planning to attend a nikah reception or an evening banquet on the sidelines of the convention, it's worth packing one embroidered or executive-style thobe in your bag—something sharper than your daytime walking-around outfit. It packs flat and takes seconds to change into in your hotel room.
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Convention Survival FAQ
Is parking available at McCormick Place? Yes, but on-site lots fill up fast on Saturday. Arriving before 9am or using rideshare/public transit will save you a long walk from overflow parking.
Is there a designated prayer space? Yes, MAS ICNA sets up large prayer halls on-site for all five daily prayers, separate from the lecture halls and bazaar floor.
Can I bring my kids to the bazaar? Absolutely—it's a family-friendly event, though strollers can be tough to maneuver through crowded aisles on Saturday afternoon. Consider a baby carrier instead.
We Can't Wait to Meet You! This is our favorite time of year because we get to meet our customers face-to-face. Whether you need a new Kufi for the prayer or a full winter outfit, stop by Booth B74 & C73.
Safe travels to Chicago, and see you on the show floor!