V. Special Requests / Attractions
Over the years, several people have inquired about special services, accommodations and interests. Below is our attempt to address some of these questions. These suggestions seemed to be very appreciated during C10, so present a C20 update for you.
- Goths on Wheels
We are aware of past concerns over wheelchair accessibility and are mindful of this as we select venues/hotels and event locations. Our evening venue, Bottom Lounge, is completely wheelchair accessible; the Volcano Room upstairs has an elevator which is available. The staff of Bottom Lounge is very helpful & considerate for anyone who may need assistance.
- Parent Goths
In the past, many potential attendees have had to forsake their Convergence plans due to family concerns. We hope to help alleviate this by suggesting alternate hotel accommodation with in house childcare services. The Congress Plaza Hotel allows children under 18 to stay for free.
We are happy to offer suggestions for agencies that provide hotel-site child care, such as North Shore Nannies. Many of the children's attractions around Chicago are free or very reasonably priced.
- Under 21 Goths
The only area of any of the proposed official events that we are planning which is 21+ is the upstairs Volcano Room & rooftop garden at Bottom Lounge (due to licensing restrictions; we have a special dispensation to allow 17+ in the Volcano Room & rooftop garden on Sunday night only.) The main event rooms are all open to 17+. All of the proposed daytime activities are all ages.
- Veggie / Vegan Goths
No need to snack on bread and salads all weekend. Chicago has become world renowned for its wide array of vegan dining, from casual fast food to 5-star gourmet. Many of the committee members will be more than happy to share their Chicago veggie food joy knowledge with you!
- Pride Goths
The area of the north side Lakeview neighborhood bordered by Clark Street to the west, Halsted to the east, Addison to the north & Belmont to the south is affectionately & sincerely known as "Boy's Town" (though more formally as "North Halsted") and is the epicenter of Chicago's Gay & Lesbian community. It's a friendly neighborhood where freedom of expression reigns and where all can feel comfortable. Browse the dozens & dozens of shops in this area and enjoy the atmosphere of this vibrant community.
The Gay & Lesbian Chamber of Commerce is a good starting point for information.
- Overseas Goths
The C20 Chicago committee is dedicated to making Convergence as inexpensive as possible. Convergence is particularly expensive for our overseas friends. We hope to alleviate unnecessary costs by providing "insider's advice" and how to save money like a Chicagoan. Our handy guide will be listed in the commemorative C20 Chicago program which all full-weekend laminate holders will receive.
- Thrifty Goths
A goal for C20 Chicago is to keep costs down to a minimum without sacrificing quality and fun. We'll add a short list of free and inexpensive things to do around Chicago, as well as provide some small tips on saving money while in town. This info will also be included in the commemorative C20 Chicago program which all full-weekend laminate holders will receive.
