Replay Arcade Bar Artist Showcase + Vendor Networking | CLVR LABs™ Chicago 2026

Updated for 2026. This guide uses our November 30, 2025 showcase at Replay Arcade Bar as a live case study. The format keeps running. The results keep growing.

Chicago does not slow down. It shifts inside. Our artist showcase with vendor networking turns the arcade floor into a room where people meet, shop, and book the next move.

This is the model. Music. Makers. Real talk between sets. You get sales in the room. You get content the same night. You get invites that lead to your next booking.

What Makes the Replay Format Work

• Culture first. Replay is a Chicago staple in Lincoln Park. People come for the vibe and stay for the brands.
• Signal over noise. Curated vendors and short sets keep the night moving. No dead air. No confusion.
• Easy buy path. Clear prices. Tap to pay. QR for signups. Shoppers can act fast.

See the wider mix in our seasonal guide: Best Pop Up Events in Chicago 2026.

Who This Night Serves

• Artists who want a tight set and a warm room.
• Vendors who want steady traffic and real buyers.
• Creators who want clips and photos that look like Chicago.
• Partners who want to meet the crowd that moves culture.

New to vending. Start here: Top Vendor Markets in Chicago and the CLVR Blueprint.

How Artists and Vendors Win in This Room

1. Show up ready. One line story. Clean display. Prices posted.
2. Invite action. Offer a small perk for email signups. Use a QR form.
3. Capture the night. Shoot short clips at peak times. Tag neighbors.
4. Follow up in 48 hours. Say thanks. Share one photo. Offer the next date.

Turn one night into a run of wins: Long Term Brand Buzz.

Why Replay Arcade Bar Matters

Replay is built for crossovers. Games. Music. Drinks. A crowd that shops with mood and memory. It is easy to load in. It is easy to film. It is easy to meet your people without shouting.

Looking for higher end rooms too. Read Luxury Networking in Chicago.

What We Learned From the 2025 Showcase

• Short sets keep buyers moving from stage to tables.
• Vendors with bright signs and tap to pay close faster.
• Story beats discounts. A clear story sells at full price.
• Recaps booked the next month. The post is part of the show.

Build your networking plan for this year: Networking Events Chicago 2026.

How Artists Can Perform at CLVR LABs™ Showcases

We feature Chicago talent every season. Music artists, spoken word performers, and creatives of all styles can submit to join the lineup at upcoming CLVR LABs™ events.

Performer sign ups are open now for 2026. Slots are limited and reviewed in order received.

• Performers must be 21+ and based in the Chicago area.
• Sets are 8–10 minutes and include full sound support from DJ CLVR Fox.
• Accepted artists receive event promo placement and professional media clips.

To apply, complete our performer form and share a sample of your work. Include links to your music, socials, or performance clips so our team can review quickly.

Submit your artist application here: https://clvrlabs.org/contact-clvr-labs/

Questions or press inquiries: clvrlabs@clvrm3dia.com

• Check live dates on the events page.
• Apply to vend. Booths start at $149 on the vendor form.
• Want to sponsor or book an activation. Read the CLVR Blueprint and reach out.

Read Next

• Best Pop Up Events in Chicago 2026
• Chicago Events Calendar for Creatives
• 420 Friendly Event Spaces in Chicago

See Chicago Events 2026 |
Apply to Vend 2026 |
Sponsor CLVR

Quick FAQ

Is this a one time show.
It is a running series. Dates rotate. The format stays.

Who can vend.
Local makers and lifestyle brands. 21+ crowd. Clean display. Tap to pay.

How do I perform.
Watch the events page for open slots and submit a sample when listed.