Ever wondered what it takes to host a major event, be it a concert, a sporting extravaganza, or a large-scale corporate gathering, at a premier venue like the Allstate Arena? While the bright lights and roaring crowds are captivating, the behind-the-scenes costs can be a significant factor. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the various aspects that contribute to the expense of renting the Allstate Arena, helping you understand what to expect.
Unveiling the Costs: How Much Does It Cost to Rent Allstate Arena?
The Allstate Arena, located in Rosemont, Illinois, is a prominent multi-purpose arena known for hosting a wide array of events, from professional hockey (Chicago Wolves) and basketball (DePaul Blue Demons) to blockbuster concerts and family shows. Its capacity of up to 18,500 for concerts and its convenient location near O'Hare International Airport make it a highly sought-after venue.
However, getting a precise, public figure for a full arena rental is challenging. Rental costs are rarely, if ever, publicly disclosed for an entire venue, as they are highly dependent on the nature of the event, the specific dates, the required amenities, and the negotiation process. What we can glean from available information are the costs associated with private suites and the general operational fees.
Let's break down the factors influencing the cost.
Step 1: Define Your Event and Its Scope
Before you even think about picking up the phone, the most crucial first step is to clearly define your event. This isn't just about what you want to happen; it's about the logistics and resources it will demand.
1.1 What Kind of Event Are You Planning?
- Concert: A major musical performance will require extensive stage setup, sound, lighting, and security.
- Sporting Event: This could range from a full professional game to an exhibition. Considerations include ice/court setup, locker rooms, and specific sports equipment.
- Corporate Event/Trade Show: These often involve large exhibition spaces, breakout rooms, catering, and specific technical requirements for presentations.
- Private Party/Gala: While less common for the entire arena, private parties can utilize smaller spaces or even a portion of the main floor, requiring specific decor, seating, and high-end catering.
1.2 How Many Attendees Do You Anticipate?
The Allstate Arena has a seating capacity of:
- Concerts: Up to 18,500
- Basketball: 17,500
- Ice Hockey: 16,692
- Arena Football: 16,143
Knowing your estimated attendance is crucial for determining the necessary space and associated costs like staffing, security, and cleaning. A smaller crowd might mean you don't need the entire arena, potentially reducing the base rental fee.
1.3 What Dates and Times Are You Targeting?
- Peak Season vs. Off-Peak: Like any venue, the Allstate Arena will likely have higher demand and thus higher prices during peak seasons (e.g., concert tour season, major holidays) or for prime weekend dates.
- Duration: Are you renting for a single evening, a full day, or multiple days? Each additional hour or day adds to the cost.
- Load-in/Load-out Times: Factor in the time needed for setup and teardown. These hours are typically billed as part of your rental.
Step 2: Understanding the Core Rental Components
While a single "rental fee" for the entire arena isn't publicly available, we can infer the key components that would contribute to the overall cost. Think of it as a base facility fee plus a multitude of add-ons.
2.1 Base Facility Rental Fee
This is the fundamental cost for securing the physical space. For a major arena like Allstate, this fee would be substantial, likely in the tens of thousands to hundreds of thousands of dollars per day, depending on the event's scale and demand for the date. This fee often covers the use of the main arena bowl, some basic backstage areas, and utilities.
2.2 Staffing and Personnel
You will need a dedicated team to run your event safely and efficiently. This includes:
- Event Management Staff: Arena representatives to coordinate with your team.
- Security Personnel: Essential for crowd control and safety. The number required will depend on your event's size and nature.
- Ushers and Ticket Takers: For managing entry and guiding attendees.
- Medical Staff: Paramedics and first-aid personnel.
- Cleaning Crew: Before, during, and after your event.
- Technical Staff: For sound, lighting, stage setup, and any specialized equipment.
- Parking Attendants: To manage the significant on-site parking.
2.3 Production and Technical Needs
This is where costs can really escalate, especially for concerts or elaborate shows.
- Sound System: The arena has a built-in system, but major productions often bring their own or require significant enhancements.
- Lighting Rig: Beyond basic house lights, concerts and shows need sophisticated lighting.
- Staging and Rigging: Customized stage builds, flying systems for performers, or large screens.
- Video Production: Jumbotrons, live feeds, and video effects.
- Power Requirements: Sufficient power for all equipment, which may involve additional generators for large-scale events.
2.4 Insurance and Permits
- Liability Insurance: You will need comprehensive liability insurance to cover any potential accidents or damages during your event. The arena will have specific requirements for coverage amounts.
- Permits and Licenses: Depending on the nature of your event (e.g., selling alcohol, large gatherings), various local and state permits will be necessary.
Step 3: Factor in Additional Services and Amenities
These are the elements that transform a bare arena into a complete event experience, and they significantly contribute to the overall cost.
3.1 Catering and Concessions
- In-House Catering: The Allstate Arena likely has an exclusive catering partner (Aramark is mentioned as their catering operator). Outside food and beverages are generally not allowed.
- Food and Beverage Minimums: For larger events, there may be a minimum spend on catering.
- Staffing for Catering: Bartenders, servers, and kitchen staff.
- Suite Catering: If you're utilizing the arena's 48 luxury suites, catering for these is typically not included in the suite price and would be an additional expense. Suite catering can range from $35-$50 per guest for just beer & wine, $50-$75 for snacks with beer & wine, and $100-$150 per guest for a full meal with drinks.
3.2 Security and Emergency Services
Beyond general event security, specialized services may be required:
- Police Presence: For major events, local police may be required for traffic control and enhanced security.
- Fire Department Personnel: Depending on the event type and pyrotechnics, fire marshals may be necessary.
3.3 Ticketing Services
- Ticket Vendor Fees: If you use the arena's preferred ticketing partner, there will be associated fees per ticket sold.
- Box Office Staffing: For day-of-event ticket sales and resolution of issues.
- Facilities Service Fee Surcharge: Rosemont has a facilities service fee surcharge of $2.00 per ticket for events at the Allstate Arena, which is paid to the Village of Rosemont. This is typically passed on to the ticket purchaser but is part of the overall financial picture.
3.4 Marketing and Promotion
While this might not be directly a "rental cost," it's a significant expenditure for any large-scale event.
- Advertising: TV, radio, print, and digital ads.
- Public Relations: Generating media coverage.
- Event Specific Branding: Banners, signage, and merchandise.
3.5 Parking
The Allstate Arena offers ample on-site parking.
- Parking Fees: Parking fees typically range from $25-$50 per vehicle (cash or credit card). Buses and limos are extra. This cost is usually borne by attendees, but if you're providing complimentary parking, it's a significant line item.
3.6 Other Miscellaneous Costs
- Merchandise Sales: If you plan to sell merchandise, there may be venue commissions.
- Special Access: VIP areas, green rooms, or specific dressing rooms may incur additional fees.
- Cleaning Deposits: A refundable deposit to ensure the venue is left in good condition.
- Damage Deposits: A deposit to cover any potential damage to the facility.
Step 4: Contacting Allstate Arena for a Quote
Now that you have a clear understanding of your event's scope and the potential costs, it's time to reach out to the Allstate Arena directly.
4.1 Gather Your Information
Before contacting them, have all the details from Step 1 ready:
- Event type and description
- Target dates (with alternatives)
- Estimated attendance
- Key production requirements
- Specific needs (e.g., VIP areas, specific catering requests)
4.2 Contact Methods
The Allstate Arena's official website (
- Phone: You can typically reach their administrative office at (847) 635-6601.
- Email: They also provide an email address for general inquiries, often starting with "RCB@" followed by "rosemont.com" (e.g., RCB@rosemont.com).
- Online Inquiry Form: Check their "Contact Us" section for a dedicated event booking inquiry form, if available.
4.3 Be Prepared for Detailed Discussions
The arena's event booking team will likely engage in detailed discussions to understand your needs fully. They will then provide a customized quote based on your specific requirements. Be prepared to negotiate, especially for multi-day events or if you have flexibility with your dates.
Step 5: Reviewing and Understanding the Contract
Once you receive a proposal, it's essential to meticulously review the contract.
5.1 Itemized Breakdown
Ensure the contract provides a clear, itemized breakdown of all costs. This should include:
- Base rental fee
- Staffing costs (broken down by type)
- Technical equipment and services
- Catering agreements
- Insurance requirements
- Payment schedule
- Cancellation policies
5.2 Hidden Fees and Surcharges
- Read the fine print! Look for any additional fees or surcharges that might not have been explicitly discussed initially. These could include utility surcharges, rigging fees, or administrative charges.
- As noted, a facilities service fee of $2.00 per ticket is applied to events. Understand how this will be handled for your event.
5.3 Payment Schedule and Deposit
Typically, venues require a significant deposit upfront, with subsequent payments leading up to the event date. Understand the payment milestones and potential penalties for late payments.
Step 6: Budgeting Beyond the Rental Fee
Remember that the arena rental fee is only one piece of the financial puzzle. You must budget for all other aspects of your event.
6.1 Marketing and Ticketing
- Beyond the arena's ticketing fees, your marketing budget for promoting the event will be substantial.
- Consider costs for public relations, digital advertising, print ads, and celebrity endorsements if applicable.
6.2 Talent/Performer Fees
For concerts or special appearances, the cost of talent can easily dwarf the venue rental.
6.3 Accommodation and Travel
If your event involves out-of-town performers, speakers, or key personnel, factor in hotel stays, flights, and ground transportation.
6.4 Contingency Fund
Always allocate a contingency fund, typically 10-15% of your total budget, for unexpected expenses or emergencies.
Conclusion
Renting a venue like the Allstate Arena is a significant undertaking, both logistically and financially. While a definitive "price tag" for a full arena rental is not publicly available due to the customized nature of each event, understanding the various cost components—from base rental fees and staffing to production and catering—is paramount. By meticulously planning your event, clearly communicating your needs, and thoroughly reviewing all contractual agreements, you can navigate the process effectively and bring your vision to life at this iconic Chicagoland venue.
10 Related FAQ Questions
How to estimate the total cost of renting Allstate Arena for a concert?
To estimate the total cost for a concert, you'll need to consider the base rental fee (undisclosed publicly but significant), artist fees (can be millions), extensive production costs (sound, lighting, staging), security, staffing, catering (especially for suites, potentially $100-$150+ per person), marketing, ticketing fees, and a 10-15% contingency.
How to book a private suite at Allstate Arena?
To book a private suite, you can contact the Chicago Wolves directly (who offer various private party spaces including suites) or use third-party platforms like SuiteHop, which lists available suites for various events. Suite prices vary significantly by event type, ranging from $4,000 to $8,000 for NHL/NBA games to $5,000 to $15,000 for concerts.
How to determine the ideal seating capacity for my event at Allstate Arena?
Determine your ideal seating capacity by accurately estimating your audience size based on marketing efforts and historical data for similar events. Allstate Arena can accommodate up to 18,500 for concerts, so ensure your expected attendance aligns with the venue's capabilities.
How to manage catering costs when renting Allstate Arena?
Catering at Allstate Arena is typically handled by their exclusive concessionaire (Aramark). You can manage costs by opting for simpler catering packages, negotiating minimums, and being aware that outside food and beverages are not allowed. Budget $75-$125 per guest for a full catering spread in suites, or consider simpler snack/drink options for lower per-guest costs.
How to secure necessary permits and insurance for an event at Allstate Arena?
The Allstate Arena event management team will guide you through the required permits and insurance. You will need comprehensive liability insurance, and depending on your event, local and state permits for large gatherings, alcohol sales, and specific activities.
How to negotiate rental fees for Allstate Arena?
While specific negotiation tactics are proprietary, having flexible dates, a detailed event plan, and a strong track record can aid in discussions. For multi-day bookings or off-peak times, there may be more room for negotiation on the base rental fee.
How to account for hidden fees and surcharges when budgeting for Allstate Arena?
Always request a detailed, itemized quote and carefully read the entire contract for any mention of additional charges like utility surcharges, rigging fees, cleaning fees, or the mandatory $2.00 per ticket facilities service fee that is imposed by the Village of Rosemont.
How to arrange parking and transportation for an event at Allstate Arena?
Allstate Arena has ample on-site parking, with fees typically ranging from $25-$50 per vehicle. Buses and limos are extra. For large events, consider coordinating with public transportation options (as the arena is accessible by rail and bus routes) or providing shuttle services.
How to budget for production and technical requirements at Allstate Arena?
Develop a comprehensive production rider outlining all sound, lighting, staging, video, and power needs. Get quotes from reputable production companies, and understand what in-house equipment the Allstate Arena provides versus what you need to bring or rent externally. This is often one of the largest variable costs.
How to contact Allstate Arena for event booking inquiries?
You can contact the Allstate Arena event booking team via their official website (
