CHICAGODEBATESHOWCASE
An open invitational for anyone who believes Chicago deserves better public discourse
Free admission · All welcome · 5:30–9:30 PM
The Invitation
You're invited to help bring structured debate back to civic life
We live in an era of hot takes and shouting past each other. What if we created spaces where people actually listen, respond, and reason together? That's what this evening is about.
The Chicago Debate Showcase is not a competition for elite debaters — it's an open invitational for anyone who wants to experience what thoughtful disagreement looks like.
For the Curious
Never debated? Perfect. Come watch, learn, and see if structured argument changes how you think.
For Professionals
Sharpen the skills you already use in meetings, negotiations, and pitches.
For Educators & Students
See debate in action. Bring your classroom or study group.
For Community Builders
Support a new kind of civic entertainment. Sponsor, volunteer, or simply attend.
Why Debate Matters Now
In a world of soundbites, structured argument is a radical act
We've Forgotten How to Disagree
Most arguments today end in unfollows, not understanding. Debate teaches us to disagree without destruction.
Ideas Deserve Stress-Testing
The best ideas survive scrutiny. Debate is the gym where reasoning gets stronger.
Listening is a Lost Art
In debate, you must listen to respond. Imagine if we brought that discipline to everyday conversation.
Democracy Needs This
Self-governance requires citizens who can evaluate arguments. Debate is civic infrastructure.
It's Actually Fun
Forget boring panels. Debate is fast, unpredictable, and genuinely entertaining. You'll be surprised.
Everyone Can Learn
You don't need a degree in rhetoric. The workshop teaches practical skills you'll use tomorrow.
"The test of a first-rate intelligence is the ability to hold two opposed ideas in mind at the same time and still retain the ability to function."
Evening Format
Workshop, debates, and conversation—all in one evening
Interactive Workshop
45 minutes
Learn the fundamentals of winning arguments. Build a case, handle objections, and structure your reasoning. Whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned speaker, you'll walk away with tools you can use immediately.
Exhibition Debates
2-3 matches
2v2 team debates on topics relevant to Chicago—tech ethics, urban policy, startup culture, and more.
Flagship Debate
30 minutes
The main event: skilled debaters tackle a high-profile Chicago issue. Extended format with audience Q&A. The audience participates too — this isn't passive entertainment.
Evening Schedule
Friday, May 29, 2026 • Premier Chicago Innovation Space
Doors Open
Check-in, light refreshments, networking
Workshop: "How to Win Any Argument"
Interactive session on argument structure and persuasion techniques (45 min)
Exhibition Debate 1
Topic: Chicago tech/policy issue • Format: 2v2, 20 minutes
Intermission
Refreshments, sponsor activations, networking
Exhibition Debate 2
Topic: Audience-selected from options • Format: 2v2, 20 minutes
Flagship Debate
Topic: High-profile Chicago issue • Format: 2v2 extended, 30 minutes
Awards & Closing
Best Debater, Best Argument, Audience Favorite
Networking Reception
Connect with debaters, sponsors, and fellow attendees
Event Concludes
Thank you for joining us!
Schedule subject to minor adjustments. Debate topics announced 2 weeks before the event.
Be Part of It
Every seat filled is a vote for better discourse
Spectator Ticket
FREE RSVP
- Full evening access
- Workshop participation
- Watch all 3 debates
- Networking reception
- Light refreshments
- Vote for awards
Your presence matters. Every attendee sends the message that Chicago wants more of this.
This event is free thanks to our sponsors. RSVP required for capacity management. Can't make it? Release your ticket so others can attend.
Become a Sponsor
Support Chicago's intellectual community
The Chicago Debate Showcase is free for attendees thanks to our sponsors. Your investment helps bring structured debate to Chicago as a public good — free for anyone who wants to attend.
Every sponsor helps keep this event free and accessible. Your brand gets associated with the kind of discourse our city deserves.
Gold
$5,000
- Logo on all event materials
- Logo on livestream
- 10 reserved tickets
- 2-minute speaking slot
- Premium booth space
- Social media spotlight
- Newsletter feature
Silver
$2,500
- Logo on event materials
- Logo on livestream
- 5 reserved tickets
- Standard booth space
- Social media mention
Bronze
$1,000
- Logo on event materials
- 2 reserved tickets
- Social media mention
Community
In-kind
- Venue partnership
- Catering partnership
- A/V equipment
- Media coverage
- Custom arrangement
Contact John Connor at john@superdebate.org
The Venue
A premier Chicago innovation space
Premier Chicago Innovation Space
VENUE ANNOUNCEMENT COMING SOON
We're finalizing partnership with one of Chicago's most exciting innovation venues. Expect a modern space designed for events, networking, and collaboration—perfectly suited for live debate events.
RSVP now to receive venue details as soon as they're announced.
Getting There
Chicago is one of the most accessible cities in the US
The Experience
What you'll take home
A New Way to Think
The workshop teaches argumentation skills that change how you approach problems — at work, at home, everywhere.
Real Connections
Meet people who care about ideas. The kind of conversation you wish happened more often.
Both Sides, Honestly
Hear well-structured arguments on both sides of issues that matter. Leave with a more complete picture.
Inspiration to Act
Watch skilled communicators in action. See what's possible when clarity and conviction meet.
A Community Forming
This is the first Chicago event. You're not just attending — you're helping build something.
An Evening You'll Remember
The back-and-forth, the clever rebuttals, the audience reactions. Debate is genuinely entertaining.
This is our first Chicago event. We're building something new — a community that values thoughtful disagreement. You don't have to be a debater to be part of it. You just have to show up.
Frequently Asked Questions
This Is How It Starts
Every movement begins with a room full of people who showed up.
The Chicago Debate Showcase isn't just an event — it's an invitation to build a city where ideas are tested, not just tweeted. Where disagreement is structured, not destructive. Where the best argument wins, not the loudest voice.
May 29. Chicago. Be in the room.
Friday, May 29, 2026 • 5:30 PM • Chicago, IL
Explore More
Discover more events, resources, and ways to get involved with SuperDebate