Chicago Evertonians' Welcome Event Celebrates Blues In The Windy City

Evertonians from across Chicago and beyond gathered at AJ Hudson’s on the eve of the Blues’ Premier League Summer Series fixture against West Ham United to mark the Club’s arrival in the Windy City.

Hosted in partnership with the Chicago Evertonians Supporters’ Club and supported by Christopher Ward – who once again showed their generosity by making sure every Evertonian got a free drink – the welcome event brought together fans in the home of one of the US' largest supporters' clubs as Club Ambassadors Leon Osman and Graham Stuart, and Club legend Adrian Heath, took part in an evening of football chat, giveaways and camaraderie.

Evertonians were treated to exclusive merchandise and money-can’t-buy prizes, including a brick from the Club’s new Hill Dickinson Stadium, signed shirts and the opportunity to watch the team warm up pitchside at Soldier Field.

The evening was also a celebration of Everton’s passionate fanbase in North and South America and the continued growth of the Club’s support across the continent as Tony Sampson, Chair of the North American Toffees and proud member of Chicago Evertonians and Diego Carlos from Everton Vina Del Mar also took part in Q&A’s to provide an update on goings on in their respective nations.

Mark Bannerman, who drove five hours from St Louis to attend, said: “Events like this bring our North American community together and remind us why Everton is so special. Seeing and speaking to legends like Inchy, Ossie and Diamond is something I’ll never forget. Getting to go to the game is great but I’m so happy we also get to spend time in the company of other Evertonians."

The event is part of a wider programme of fan engagement taking place throughout Everton’s US Summer Series tour, which also includes a now sold out Everton Fans’ Cruise Experience on Lake Michigan, supporter meet-ups, a brunch quiz event and community activity.

The full list of Everton’s Premier League Summer Series Fan Engagement Events still to come is:

CHICAGO

Tuesday 29 July – Chicago

• 2–4pm – Everton Soccer School at Skyline Pitch – SOLD OUT

Featuring visits from Leon Osman and Graham Stuart.

• 7pm – Everton Chicago River Cruise Experience – Presented by Christopher Ward - SOLD OUT 

Set aboard the luxury Spirit of Chicago, this unforgettable two-hour cruise will include access on board the Lake Michigan cruise, two premium drinks (cash and card bar available thereafter), an-American buffet, Q&A with Seamus Coleman, Leighton Baines, Alan Irvine, Graham Stuart, Dan Meis and Adrian Heath, music and giveaways, all set against the stunning skyline views of Chicago.

Wednesday 30 July – Chicago

• 11am–3pm – Premier League Tailgate at Guinness Brewery - SOLD OUT 

Leon Osman will be in attendance as the Blues get ready for kick-off. Bus transport to the stadium will be available.

• 5.30pm – Everton v West Ham United

Everton’s Summer Series continues with a fixture in the Windy City against David Moyes’ former side. Tickets for the fixture with the Hammers at Soldier Field are available here.

ATLANTA

Friday 1 August – Atlanta

• 2–4pm – Everton Soccer School at East Lake Station Park – SOLD OUT

Featuring a visit from Leon Osman.

Saturday 2 August – Atlanta

• 7.30pm – Atlanta Evertonians Welcome Event at Limerick Junction - LIMITED TICKETS AVAILABLE 

Graham Stuart and Leon Osman will join supporters for a Q&A hosted by Atlanta Evertonians. The event will see attendees from across the US, UK and Europe come together ahead of the final Summer Series fixture.

Sunday 3 August – Atlanta

• 5pm – Everton v Manchester United