How to get tickets to the DNC: What you need to know about Day 4 – NBC Chicago

The 2024 Democratic National Convention in Chicago concludes on Thursday, and Vice President Kamala Harris is expected to formally accept the party's presidential nomination for the general election in November.

About 50,000 Democratic delegates, volunteers and supporters were in attendance this week, and President Joe Biden, former Presidents Barack Obama and Bill Clinton, and vice presidential candidate Tim Walz delivered major speeches.

While Democratic supporters in the region may be wondering how they can attend the convention's closing night, the general public is not allowed to attend the convention.

“Only accredited delegates, media and guests may attend the meeting in person,” the meeting's website states. “We are organizing a meeting to reach all Americans and providing opportunities to participate.”

Earlier this year, anyone who wanted to work or volunteer at the DNC could apply to volunteer, but as of Monday, August 19 – the first day of the convention – applications are no longer possible, the website says.

“Thank you for your interest in volunteering for the Democratic National Convention,” the website said. “Over 30,000 people have raised their hands to volunteer for this historic event. Due to this overwhelming support, we are no longer accepting interest forms. Thank you for your continued support and enthusiasm.”

The convention will also see numerous street closures on the West Side and along Michigan Avenue in downtown Chicago, several planned protests, and expected military helicopter flights over the city.

Here's what to expect on the first day of the convention, how to watch, and more.

Where will the conference take place?

The congress will take place at two locations.

The main venue for the convention, where speeches are given and voting takes place, is the United Center on the city's West Side. The building is home to the Chicago Bulls and Blackhawks and was also the site of the 1996 Democratic National Convention.

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During the week, caucus and council meetings will also be held at McCormick Place, the city's largest convention center. The building is located near Lake Michigan, south of Soldier Field and the city's museum campus.

How to follow the DNC

All Democratic National Convention plenary sessions will be streamed live on NBC Chicago's website and mobile app, as well as in the player above.

The speeches will also be available on the NBC 5 Chicago News 24/7 streaming channel.

Viewers can also look forward to expanded coverage on Telemundo Chicago and the Telemundo Chicago app.

Streaming times (all times Central):

Thursday: 6pm-10pm

Safety and road closures

More than a dozen law enforcement agencies will provide security throughout the convention. Coordinators responsible for security during the week include the Chicago Police Department, the FBI and the Secret Service.

Illinois Governor JB Pritzker confirmed to NBC Chicago that about 150 members of the state's National Guard will be in Chicago for the DNC this week, but stressed that they are on standby.

FULL LIST: Busy Chicago streets closed in the Loop, Gold Coast and beyond for DNC

Numerous streets are currently closed around the United Center and McCormick Place. Fences have been put in place to largely block off restricted areas and other areas where security checks are required for incoming vehicles. A full list of these closures near the venues can be found here.

In addition, several heavily traveled streets in downtown Chicago will be closed, including Huron Street and Chicago Avenue between Michigan Avenue and Rush Street. Among other closures downtown, State Street will also be closed between Delaware Place and Walton Street.