What’s in — and out — at the Cubs Convention next month

Fans attending the Cubs Convention next month can expect a few changes.

The Cubs released programming Monday for the three-day event, which begins Jan. 12 at the Sheraton Grand Chicago Riverwalk. The Ricketts family panel and the business operations panel featuring President Crane Kenney will not return in 2024. The decision was driven by a fan survey that ranked those panels 11th and 12th, respectively, out of 13 experiences.

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Instead the Cubs are incorporating more panels and events with players and coaches, including a session with manager Craig Counsell; The Sweet ‘16 Squad panel featuring members of the World Series championship team; and The Core from ‘84 featuring members of the National League East champs on their 40th anniversary. The youth clinic also returns on the final day of the convention for the second consecutive year.

On the Saturday afternoon of the convention (Jan. 13), fans can attend a reception where they can chat with Chairman Tom Ricketts, who will be mingling with the crowd.

Another notable change: The Cubs are getting rid of autograph vouchers for marquee names and going to a first-come, first-served format for all current players, alumni and Hall of Famers. In the past, fans went to the registration desk to receive a scratch-off autograph voucher for a top-tier current or former player.

Some autograph signings for season ticket holders will move to the nearby Loews Chicago Hotel to help create more space.