A Month-by-Month Guide to Booking Catering Events in Chicago
- Foodstuffs Catering
- Dec 17, 2025
- 4 min read
Timing is everything when it comes to planning an event. Whether you are hosting a wedding, a corporate gala, or a holiday party, booking your caterer at the right time can make all the difference. In a busy city like Chicago, where peak seasons fill up quickly, planning ahead ensures you secure the best menus, dates, and service.
At Foodstuffs Events & Catering, we have decades of experience helping clients plan unforgettable events year-round. This month-by-month guide will help you understand when to book catering so you can stay ahead of the calendar and avoid last-minute stress.
Fresh Starts and Corporate Kickoffs
JANUARY
The new year is prime time for corporate planning. Companies often host kickoffs, strategy meetings, and team lunches to set the tone for the year ahead.
Best to Book
Corporate Lunch Programs
Micro-Kitchen Catering
Winter Weddings
Pro Tip: January is less competitive for event dates, so it is a good time to lock in a caterer for spring and summer events.
The Final Sunday Football Game and Winter Celebrations
FEBRUARY
Chicagoans embrace the coziness of indoor gatherings in February. From super football Sunday parties to engagement parties, catering adds warmth to the winter months.
Best to Book
Football Parties
Engagement Parties
Pro Tip: If you are planning a wedding later in the year, start gathering your proposals now to secure your caterer before peak season.
Spring Celebrations Begin
Showers and Social Events
APRIL is the start of shower season. Bridal showers, baby showers, and spring luncheons are everywhere. It is also a key time for corporate events.
Best to Book
Bridal showers
Baby showers
Spring weddings
Fundraising galas
Pro Tip: Plan early for graduation parties and summer weddings, as menus and rental inventory are in high demand.
Weddings in Full Bloom
Graduation and Corporate Picnic Season
By JUNE, summer is in full swing, and with it comes outdoor celebrations. From backyard parties to large-scale corporate picnics, catering teams are booked solid.
Best to Book
Graduation parties
Summer weddings
Company picnics
BBQs
Pro Tip: If you want weekend catering in June, confirm months in advance to secure your date.
Backyard Parties and Holiday Weekends
JULY is all about casual entertaining and summer fun. Catering keeps things simple and elevated for everything from barbecues to 4th of July celebrations.
Best to Book
Backyard parties
Family reunions
Casual weddings
Pro Tip: Plan your fall events in early summer for September and October dates are some of the most competitive in Chicago.
Summer Send-Offs
AUGUST often fills with end-of-summer gatherings, mitzvahs, and corporate retreats before the busy fall season begins.
Best to Book
Mitzvahs
Late-summer weddings
Retreats
Back-to-school celebrations.
Pro Tip: Get your holiday party catering secured now, even if it feels early.
Peak Event Season
SEPTEMBER
Fall is one of the busiest catering seasons in Chicago. Weddings, corporate galas, and fundraising events dominate the calendar.
Best to Book
Weddings
Nonprofit galas
Corporate conferences
Pro Tip: September weekends go fast, book as early as possible to secure prime dates!
Holiday Party Planning
By OCTOBER, holiday party planning is in full swing. Many companies book their caterers months in advance to avoid last-minute stress.
Best to Book
Corporate holiday parties
Halloween gatherings
Late-fall weddings
Pro Tip: If you have a December event, confirm your date and menu now to ensure availability.
Celebrations and Year-End Planning
NOVEMBER is the start of holiday season. Families and businesses alike plan catered gatherings to celebrate milestones and express gratitude.
Best to Book
Thanksgiving catering
Corporate appreciation events
Winter weddings
Pro Tip: Book January kickoffs now before the holiday rush.
Holiday Magic
DECEMBER is the busiest month of the year for caterers. From corporate holiday parties to family celebrations, the calendar fills quickly.
Best to Book
Holiday parties
New Year’s Eve celebrations
Winter weddings.
Pro Tip: If you are planning anything in December, secure your date months in advance.
Final Thoughts: Plan Ahead and Celebrate Stress-Free
No matter the season, Chicago is a city that loves to celebrate. The key to hosting a successful event is timing. By booking your catering early, you secure not just the date but also the best menus, rentals, and staff to bring your vision to life.
At Foodstuffs Events & Catering, we guide clients through the planning process every month of the year. Whether you are hosting a backyard party in July or a holiday gala in December, our team makes sure every detail feels effortless and memorable.
Ready to Get Ahead of the Calendar?
Call us at 1+ (847) 328-8504 or email catering@foodstuffs.com to secure your date with Foodstuffs today.
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