The Complete Guide To Chicago's Biggest Galas And Events This Year

Save the date for Chicago’s top fundraisers, exhibitions, galas and performances in 2023-2024.

Guests hit the dance floor at Adler Planetarium’s 2022 Celestial Ball.

JUNE

BOYS & GIRLS CLUBS OF CHICAGO WOMAN’S BOARD 74TH ANNUAL SUMMER BALL

JUNE 2, 6:30PM TICKETS FROM $1,000, SPONSORSHIPS FROM $10,000

On behalf of the Boys & Girls Clubs of Chicago Woman’s Board, local businesses and philanthropy leaders come together to help enable thousands of club youth to reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens. Theater on The Lake, 2401 N. DuSable Lake Shore Drive, 312.235.8000, bgcc.org/summerball/

SEEING WHAT’S POSSIBLE GALA

JUNE 2, 6PM RECEPTION & SILENT AUCTION 7:30PM DINNER, PROGRAM & DANCING TICKETS FROM $500

Join The Lighthouse in-person to help create a more inclusive world for all. Throughout the celebration, guests enjoy fine dining, special performances and a live band for dancing. Each year, this event honors one inspirational community member who has dedicated themselves to making a difference in the lives of others. Proceeds from the evening support all programs and services across The Lighthouse. Four Seasons Hotel Chicago, 120 E. Delaware Place, 312.447.3447, chicagolighthouse.org/event/gala

Ryan Chiaverini of ABC 7 gets into the swing of things at the Jackson Chance Foundation Ping Pong Ball 2022.

2023 DIGESTIVE HEALTH FOUNDATION GALA

JUNE 3, 6PM

TICKETS FROM $600

The Digestive Health Foundation community will come together for their annual Digestive Health Foundation Gala. The Digestive Health Foundation focuses on improving the quality of life for anyone facing a digestive disorder by supporting cutting-edge medical research, physician training and education at the Northwestern Medicine Digestive Health Center. Four Seasons Hotel Chicago, 120 E. Delaware Place, 312.926.0199, digestivehealthfoundation.org/gala

WALK FOR KIDNEYS

JUNE 4, 9AM

Walk for Kidneys is a family-friendly celebration of passion and progress. This annual event is an incredible opportunity for supporters of the NKFI to come together, show their spirit and demonstrate their determination to make a difference in the fight against kidney disease. Join other supporters of the NKFI mission for this festive three-mile walk and help us win the race against kidney disease. Venue TBD, 312.321.1500, nkfi.org/walk

CANCER SURVIVORS RUN/WALK

JUNE 4

Join the Hippocratic Cancer Research Foundation in the annual cancer survivor’s walk to raise funds and celebrate successes of Northwestern Medicine’s Lurie Cancer. Grant Park, 331 E. Randolph St., 312.953.9567, wingstocure.com

29TH ANNUAL MAKING HISTORY AWARDS

JUNE 7, 6PM

The Chicago History Museum’s Making History Awards honors Chicagoans whose enduring contributions have made Chicago a better and more vibrant place to live. The evening includes a cocktail reception and dinner and will recognize honorees. Since the event’s inception, the Chicago History Museum has honored 130 individuals and 13 Chicago companies. Four Seasons Hotel Chicago, 120 E. Delaware Place, 312.799.1212, chicagohistory.org/events

Anuj Panchal, Anjani Bhargava, Susan Lape and Saurab Bhargava at the Chicago Youth Symphony Orchestra 2022 gala.

GAMING FOR GREEN

JUNE 8, 5:30PM

TICKETS $200 PER POKER PLAYER, $125 PER CASINO GUEST

In 2023, Chicago Gateway Green’s annual Texas Hold ’Em Poker tournament Gaming for Green returns to Galleria Marchetti in Chicago’s River West neighborhood. In its 16th year, players compete for fabulous prizes including the grand prize of a $10,000 seat at the World Series of Poker in Las Vegas. All guests will enjoy Galleria Marchetti’s famous Italian specialties, complimentary cocktails, live music and a variety of charitable gaming tables, including roulette, craps and blackjack, with $20,000 in prizes up for grabs. All proceeds benefit Chicago Gateway Green. Galleria Marchetti, 825 W. Erie St., 312.595.3100, gatewaygreen.org/gaming-for-green

ARTEDGE 2023: CELEBRATING 10 YEARS

JUNE 10

TABLES FROM $25,000

ArtEdge, Chicago’s most exclusive gala, is known for presenting an exceptional experience that includes curated food, decor and entertainment. In 2023, ArtEdge will pay tribute to the legacy of this iconic event while celebrating the opening of the Gary Simmons exhibition. Simmons’ The Black Ark installation will serve as a literal and metaphorical platform for music and performance while featuring highlights from past events honoring the individuals who created and continued this annual event. ArtEdge has raised $16 million in support of MCA Exhibition and Learning programs over the years. Museum of Contemporary Art Chicago, 220 E. Chicago Ave., 312.397.3830

MAGIC OF MUSIC GOLF BENEFIT

JUNE 12, 9:30 AM TICKETS VARY; COCKTAIL RECEPTION ONLY $195

This annual event has become one of the Ravinia Festival's signature fundraisers over the past 25 years, bringing together sponsors and golf enthusiasts for a fun-filled outing! This year’s event takes place at Lake Shore Country Club and will provide a classic golf experience across a championship 18-hole golf course as well as a luncheon and entertainment. Proceeds from the Magic of Music Golf Benefit provide vital funding for Ravinia’s Reach Teach Play music education and engagement programs, which serve more than 75,000 people in Cook and Lake Counties and ensure that music remains accessible to all. Lake Shore Country Club, 1255 Sheridan Road, Glencoe, 847.266.5418, www.ravinia.org/GolfOuting

FORE! PAWS CHICAGO GOLF OUTING

JUNE 12, NOON

The third Annual FORE! PAWS Chicago Golf Outing is an exciting day of golf with on-course entertainment including cocktail and food tasting stations, raffle prizes, golfing contests, a golf ball shooter and photo stations with adoptable animals. The day will conclude with a dinner reception featuring a silent and live auction, program and networking with other corporate and individual supporters. Funds raised will help PAWS Chicago save the lives of thousands of homeless dogs and cats this year. Westmoreland Country Club, 2601 Old Glenview Road, Wilmette, 773.475.3303, pawschicago.org/golf

Tanya Polsky and Lisa Aronin at the Summer Ball benefit for The Boys & Girls Clubs of Chicago Woman’s Board.

BOYS & GIRLS CLUBS OF CHICAGO GUILD BOARD’S 18TH ANNUAL LAWN BALL

JUNE 16, 6:30PM

TICKETS $400, SPONSORSHIPS

FROM $2,500

The Guild Board, featuring many of Chicago’s most accomplished young professionals and civic leaders, supports thousands of youth served by Boys & Girls Clubs of Chicago through funds raised at its annual Lawn Ball. Saddle & Cycle Club, 900 W. Foster Ave., 312.235.8000, bgcc.org/lawnball

CONGO SQUARE THEATRE’S ANNUAL JUNETEENTH HOMECOMING

JUNE 17

Congo Square Theatre will be hosting its annual Juneteenth Homecoming. The day will include a free, family-friendly Festival on the Square—a combination of live performance, a marketplace from Black vendors, food for purchase and community gathering. In the evening, the annual Vision Benefit will raise money for Congo Square Theatre’s outreach projects. The formal event will include food and drink, performances, a dance floor and other entertainment. Venue TBD, congosquaretheatre.org/homecoming2023

SECRET GARDEN FASHION SHOW

JUNE 22

Enjoy an early evening fashion event in support of the Hippocratic Cancer Research Foundation at Northwestern’s Lurie Cancer. Chicago Botanic Garden Private Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe, 312.953.9567, subscribepage.io/wings

A JOFFREY CELEBRATION

JUNE 23, 7:30PM

TICKETS $1,000 PER PERSON, OTHER SPONSORSHIP LEVELS AVAILABLE

Celebrate the Joffrey at its first fundraising event in three years. Join friends, supporters and Joffrey Company artists for a spectacular evening of the unexpected inside the 1920s art deco design of Chicago’s Old Post Office. The Old Post Office, 433 W. Van Buren St., 312.386.8931, joffrey.org

PRO AMATEUR GOLF CHAMPIONSHIP & DINNER ON THE BLUFF

JUNE 25-26

DINNER ON THE BLUFF TICKETS $400, PRO AMATEUR GOLF CHAMPIONSHIP ENTRY FEE $3,000

The Founders’ Board of Lurie Children’s hosts the 63rd annual event at Onwentsia Club, pairing 200 amateur golfers with professionals from 50 prestigious clubs across the country. The festivities kick off the night before with a summer dinner party, paddle raise and live auction at Shoreacres in Lake Bluff. Proceeds benefit the Founders’ Board’s current fundraising commitment to the hospital’s Patrick M. Magoon Institute for Healthy Communities. Onwentsia Club, 300 N. Green Bay Road, Lake Forest; Shoreacres, 1601 Shoreacres Road, Lake Bluff, luriechildrens.org/proam

David Rekhson and Danny Simon with their canine companions at the FORE! PAWS Chicago Golf Outing.

UNION LEAGUE BOYS & GIRLS CLUBS ANNUAL WINE DINNER

JUNE

Guests will enjoy a delectable five-course meal created by Union League Club chef Michael Ponzio paired with a selection of wines from a prime vineyard TBA and joined by an expert from the vineyard to provide details about each wine offering. Union League Boys & Girls Clubs have been serving youth in neighborhoods with the highest hardship index in Chicago for over 100 years. Union League Club, 65 W. Jackson Blvd., 312.435.5940, ulbgc.org/ulbgc-events/

29TH ANNUAL ABC7 GIBBONS 5K RUN & 3K WALK

JUNE

Join this landmark event in Chicago to raise funds and awareness and celebrate leukemia survivors and patients. The event consists of a 5K run and a 3K walk, followed by a party with food, refreshments, music and partner tents. Venue TBD, 847.424.0600, gibbons5k.org

JULY

ZOO BALL REACHING NEW HEIGHTS

JULY 14

Zoo Ball is Lincoln Park Zoo’s largest annual fundraiser and is hosted by the Women’s Board. Since its inception in 1977, Zoo Ball has raised millions for a wide range of capital projects. Each year, more than 750 business, civic and philanthropic-minded leaders gather at this event to support the zoo’s efforts to connect people with nature at one of the only remaining free zoos in the U.S. Lincoln Park Zoo, 2001 N. Clark St., 312.742.2220, lpzooball.org

RAVINIA FESTIVAL GALA BENEFIT EVENING

JULY 16, 4:30 PM

The Ravinia Festival Gala Benefit Evening, hosted by the Women's Board and joined by Tony and Grammy award-winning singer Heather Headley is the only performance fundraiser benefiting the festival and its Reach Teach Play® education programs. Annually, these programs engage more than 75,000 students and community members in interactive, free musical opportunities throughout Cook and Lake Counties. The in-park event includes a cocktail reception, concert, dinner, and sips and sweets in the evening. 418 Sheridan Road, Highland Park, 847.266.5045, www.ravinia.org/GalaBenefit

MIDDLE MARKET OPEN

JULY 17, 8:30AM

SPONSORSHIPS $1,000-$50,000

Join over 400 of the brightest lights from Chicago’s middle market deal-making community in an incredible show of commitment to the National Kidney Foundation of Illinois. This one-of-a-kind event is one of the NKFI’s premier summer outings and it is the only amateur golf tournament designed by, and for, the Chicago middle market. Onwentsia Club, 300 Green Bay Road, Lake Forest; Northmoor, 820 Edgewood Road, Highland Park; Conway Farms Golf Club, 425 Conway Farms Drive, Lake Forest; Skokie Country Club, 500 Washington Ave., Glencoe, 312.321.1500, middlemarketopen.com

Attendees test their luck at the Gaming for Green Texas Hold ’Em Poker Night to benefit Gateway Green.

RONALD MCDONALD HOUSE CHARITIES OF CHICAGOLAND & NORTHWEST INDIANA GOLF CLASSIC

JULY 19, 8AM

SPONSORSHIP AND TICKET PACKAGES AVAILABLE

Enjoy 18 holes of golf at this legendary course with specialty lunch offerings, bottomless snacks, beverages, contests and games for players of all levels. Celebrate with cocktails and hors d’oeuvres after the last hole. Cog Hill Golf & Country Club, 12294 Archer Ave., Lemont, 630.354.7744, ronaldhousechicago.org/golf

22ND ANGELS IN THE FAIRWAY GOLF OUTING

JULY 21, 7:30AM, SHOTGUN 1PM

TICKETS FROM $350

The Joey’s Angels Chapter of the Leukemia Research Foundation hosts one of the largest charity golf outings in the country. More than 500 golfers and celebrities gather for golf, lunch, dinner and surprises. More than $2.8 million has been raised. Grand Geneva Resort, 7036 Grand Geneva Way, Lake Geneva, 847.424.0600, joeysangels.com

PAWS CHICAGO BEACH PARTY

JULY 27, 6PM

PAWS Chicago’s 20th Annual Beach Party is a summer celebration for more than 450 animal lovers and their pets that raises money for homeless animals. Guests can sip cool cocktails and soak up the sun as the Lake Michigan waves roll in. The evening offers dinner, dancing, live and silent auctions, raffles, portraits by a caricature artist and so much more. Canine companions will be treated to a doggie buffet and the opportunity to visit the dog spa, where they will be pampered with brush-outs and pawdicures. Offshore Rooftop, 1000 E. Grand Ave., 773.475.3303, pawschicago.org/beachparty

AUGUST

CRADLES TO CRAYONS CHICAGO’S 8TH ANNUAL BACKPACK-A-THON

AUG. 2, 10AM

SPONSORSHIP PACKAGES FROM $5,000

The eighth annual Backpack-A-Thon will bring together over 750 corporate volunteers to pack new school supplies into backpacks to benefit over 80,000 local children. Daley Plaza, 50 W. Washington St., 312.210.8708, cradlestocrayons.org

Howard Brown Health Center president and CEO David Ernesto Munar with Jennifer Mosely and Tony Williams at the Dance for Life After Party.

COPITAS DE SOL

AUG. 5, 3PM

TICKETS FROM $65

The Auxiliary Board of the National Museum of Mexican Art will host Copitas de Sol: A Spirited Mixer, produced in partnership with S.A.C.R.E.D. Join the Auxiliary Board and explore the world of agave spirits like mezcal, tequila and raicilla. The board will be pairing 10 spirit brands with 10 of Chicago’s best restaurants. Each team serves small bites, cocktails and neat pours. Plus, enjoy delicious bites, a live DJ, dancing and more, all in support of museum programming. National Museum of Mexican Art, 1852 W. 19th St., 312.38.1503, nationalmuseumofmexicanart.org

SWING FOR SCHOLARS

AUG. 14

Swing for Scholars is an annual golf outing created to benefit Chicago Scholars. Manny Sanchez, a Chicago Scholars founding board member, and his wife, Pat Pulido Sanchez, are proud to honor selected Scholars with the Manny & Pat Pulido Sanchez Legacy Scholarship Fund at the event. Naperville Country Club, 25W570 Chicago Ave., Naperville, 312.784.3300, chicagoscholars.org/swing

DANCE FOR LIFE

AUG. 19, 6PM

TICKETS FROM $25 FOR PERFORMANCE, $500 FOR PERFORMANCE AND AFTERPARTY

Chicago Dancers United presents the 32nd annual Dance for Life, featuring some of Chicago’s leading dance companies, followed by an afterparty. The event raises money for The Dancers’ Fund, which provides Chicago dance industry professionals with financial support for preventative healthcare and critical medical needs. The event showcases the city’s unique variety of dance traditions and styles by bringing together professional dance companies and dancers from throughout Chicago, who unite to support their peers by generously donating their time, energy and artistry. Dance for Life’s programming is subject to change. Auditorium Theatre, 50 E. Ida B. Wells Drive, 312.678.7919, chicagodancersunited.org/dance-for-life

JACKSON CHANCE FOUNDATION’S OWL RIDE

AUG. 27-28

Join team Chance on a bike ride from Chicago to Valparaiso, Ind., on Saturday, Aug. 27, and Sunday, Aug. 28. Riders will be riding 111 miles along beautiful Lake Michigan, by the lakefront and through some of Chicago and Indiana’s most scenic prairie paths and country roads. 773.580.9726, jacksonchance.org

YPC PRESENTS

SUMMER

YPC Presents is the signature fundraising event of the Young Professional Committee. Held annually, the evening attracts more than 400 young professionals for a night of entertainment and networking in support of an important cause. Venue TBD, 847.967.4850, ihm.ec/ypc-presents

SEPTEMBER

WLC SOIRÉE

SEPT. 7

The Soirée is the signature event of the Illinois Holocaust Museum’s Women’s Leadership Committee. Join the organization for a spirited evening filled with socializing, silent auction bidding and entertainment. Bryn Mawr Country Club, 6600 Crawford Ave., Lincolnwood, 847.967.4821, ihm.ec/wlc

Margaret Nelson, Elizabeth Moore and Caroline Moore strike a pose at the Rush Woman’s Board 2022 Fall Benefit.

ADLER PLANETARIUM CELESTIAL BASH

SEPT. 9

Celestial Bash is the Adler’s biggest fundraising event of the year. Held at the Chicago lakefront location, Celestial Bash guests are treated to a special night at the Adler and get to explore the entire museum after hours. Adler Planetarium, 1300 S. DuSable Lake Shore Drive, adlerplanetarium.org

U.S. HOLOCAUST MEMORIAL MUSEUM’S 2023 RISA K. LAMBERT MIDWEST EVENT

SEPTEMBER 11

This flagship luncheon attracts thousands of guests each year from the Midwest to support the ongoing efforts of the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum. Hilton Chicago, 720 S. Michigan Ave., 773.580.9726, ushmm.org/events

BOYS & GIRLS CLUBS OF CHICAGO 7TH ANNUAL GREAT FUTURES OPEN

SEPT. 11, 10AM

FOURSOMES FROM $3,500

The Great Futures Open at Olympia Fields championship golf courses supports thetransformational programs at Boys & Girls Clubs of Chicago. Clubs empower thousands of youth to reach their full potential as caring and responsible citizens. Olympia Fields Country Club, 2800 Country Club Drive, 312.235.8000, bgcc.org/golf

67TH ANNUAL GOLD COAST FASHION SHOW

SEPT. 18 AND 21

TICKETS FROM $425

Fashion and philanthropy merge as the Children’s Service Board celebrates the annual Gold Coast Fashion Show. Cutting-edge fashion is presented in two fast-paced, live runway shows at a luncheon on Sept. 18 and an evening cocktail reception on Sept. 21. Funds raised will benefit the mission of Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago. Venue TBD, goldcoastfashionshow.com

1871 MOMENTUM AWARDS

SEPTEMBER 21, 6-10PM

INDIVIDUAL IN-PERSON TICKETS $1,000, INDIVIDUAL VIRTUAL TICKETS $50, 5 VIRTUAL TICKETS $225, 10 VIRTUAL TICKETS $450

The 1871 Momentum Awards will celebrate innovators from idea to Fortune 500 across Chicago and beyond with eight tech awards. This event includes a nomination, voting and a component judging awards in addition to the night of the award show. Morgan Manufacturing, 401 N. Morgan St., Ste. 100, 312.210.0695, 1871.com/event/momentum-awards-2023

FLAIR. FUN. FASHION. PHILANTHROPY.

SEPT. 22, 11AM RECEPTION 11:45AM FASHION SHOW AND LUNCHEON TICKETS $225

This inclusive fashion show brings together heart and fashion to support children’s programs. This event attracts more than 225 prominent women, business leaders and philanthropists dedicated to empowering the lives of others. Produced by the city’s top runway production group, this show highlights the latest collections from the city’s most iconic and luxurious retailers—all worn by models with and without disabilities. Aside from the fashions, guests enjoy a sit-down luncheon, cocktails, silent auction and a pop-up shopping experience before the show. The Ritz-Carlton, Chicago, 160 E. Pearson St., 312.447.3447, chicagolighthouse.org/event/flair

RONALD MCDONALD HOUSE CHARITIES OF CHICAGOLAND & NORTHWEST INDIANA SPORTING CLAYS TOURNAMENT

SEPT. 22-23, 9AM

SPONSORSHIP AND TICKET PACKAGES AVAILABLE

Experience one of the finest clay target shooting facilities in the U.S. at this private, members-only club. Enjoy a day of sporting clays, side event games, a cookout lunch, raffles and silent auction packages specially selected for clays enthusiasts as we celebrate the 25th anniversary of Kids & Clays. Northbrook Sports Club, 160 Sports Club Drive, Hainesville, 630.354.7744, ronaldhousechicago.org/clays

CHICAGO BLACKHAWKS FOUNDATION BEYOND THE ICE GALA 2023

SEPT. 23, 6PM

The second annual Beyond the Ice Gala is a one-of-a-kind immersive experience on center ice that supports the Chicago Blackhawks Foundation’s social impact and community outreach. Join the Blackhawks team and ownership and delight in the experience the United Center can uniquely offer. Every dollar raised will help the Chicago Blackhawks Foundation advance their community-led work. For sponsorship opportunities and to purchase tickets please contact Mari Rodriguez at 312.455.7652 for more information. Center Ice, The United Center, 1901 W. Madison St.

THE ASSOCIATE BOARD OF NORTHSHORE’S 18TH ANNUAL BENEFIT

SEPT. 23, 8PM

TICKETS $125

Help support the tiniest patients at The Associate Board of NorthShore University HealthSystem’s 18th annual benefit. Enjoy a lively cocktail party with music, dancing, a silent auction, a raffle, games, an open bar, hors d’oeuvres and more. The benefit will raise money for patient care programs at the Henrietta Johnson Louis Infant Special Care Unit and the Department of Pediatrics at NorthShore University HealthSystem. Venue West, 221 N. Paulina St., 224.364.7275, foundation.northshore.org/associate-board

9TH ANNUAL LAUGH YOUR FACE OFF

SEPT. 23, 7PM

TICKETS FROM $85 Laugh Your Face Off is Chicago’s premier comedy fundraiser, benefi ting The Facial Pain Research Foundation and its quest to fi nd a cure for trigeminal neuralgia and related neuropathic facial pain. Started in 2015 by WGN TV’s Pat Tomasulo and his wife, Amy (A TN sufferer for over 20 years), the event has raised over $3.1 million to support groundbreaking research. The show features appetizers, singing by Chicago favorite John Vincent and some of the best stand-up comedians in the nation. Park West Chicago, 322 W. Armitage Ave., 773.929.1322, laughyourfaceoff.org

GERALD ARPINO FOUNDATION CHICAGO CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION

SEPT. 23-24

The Gerald Arpino Foundation concludes its multiyear 100th birthday celebration of the life and work of the late choreographer, one of the 20th century’s most infl uential artists, with the Chicago Centennial Celebration. Performances feature ballet companies from across the U.S. during two performances. Auditorium Theatre, 50 E. Ida B. Wells Drive, 805.440.5203, arpinofoundation.org

NKFI GOLF CLASSIC

SEPT. 27, 10AM

SPONSORSHIPS $250-$12,000

The NKFI Golf Classic benefits the National Kidney Foundation of Illinois, thanks to generous supporters, a dedicated planning committee and enthusiastic participants. Join us for a day of golf, games, prizes and networking. Cantigny Golf, 27W270 Mack Road, Wheaton, 312.321.1500, nkfi.org/golf-classic

FRIENDS OF PRENTICE ANNUAL FUNDRAISER 2023

SEPT. 28

TICKETS $250, SPONSORSHIP PACKAGES AVAILABLE

Friends of Prentice gathers once again on the beautiful shores of Lake Michigan to fund the future of women’s healthcare. Enjoy cocktails, food stations, live entertainment and powerful messaging, while raising dollars for critical research and initiatives in affiliation with Northwestern Medicine Prentice Women’s Hospital that impact women and infants in Chicago and on a global scale. Theater on the Lake, 2401 N. DuSable Lake Shore Drive, 312.414.1313, theateronthelake.com/theater

THE WOMAN’S BOARD OF RUSH UNIVERSITY MEDICAL CENTER’S 2023 FALL BENEFIT

SEPT. 30

The Rush Woman’s Board hosts its annual Fall Benefit, a fundraiser to support the Medical Center’s education, research and community service programs. Approximately 400 guests are expected to join in the celebratory evening—which will feature signature cocktails, delicious bites and a lively dance floor, among other delights, all set in the state-of-the-art environs of the newly constructed Joan and Paul Rubschlager Building at RUSH. Longtime Woman’s Board member Melissa Hennessy will serve as chairman of this fabulous event. The Joan and Paul Rubschlager Building, 1520 W. Harrison St., 312.942.6513, thewomansboard.org

Shannon and Greg Kershner at the Chicago Lights Gala of Hope 2022.

PAWS CHICAGO’S 23RD ANNUAL 5K WALK/RUN

SEPT. 7:30AM

EARLY BIRD TICKETS $30 ADULTS, $20 CHILDREN, DOGS FREE

Join animal-loving participants as they run, walk, wag or wiggle during the annual PAWS Chicago 5K Walk/Run in support of PAWS Chicago’s mission to build a no-kill city for homeless pets. Enjoy exciting activities for people and pets, free giveaways, raffles, treats and entertainment at Chicago’s largest pet-friendly charity event. Fundraise for a chance to win prizes and help save homeless animals by walking or running for their lives at this 3.1-mile party. Montrose Harbor, Montrose Avenue and Simonds Drive, 773.475.3315, pawschicago.org/5K56

OCTOBER

THIRD COAST PERCUSSION FALL BENEFIT CONCERT

OCT. 5 TICKETS FROM $250

Join Grammy-winning group Third Coast Percussion for an intimate evening of music and a look behind the scenes of their unique art form. Performing on marimbas, vibraphones, drums of all kinds and everyday objects, Third Coast Percussion redefines the classical music experience. This special event includes a performance, a conversation, cocktails, a dinner with the artists, a silent auction and a dessert reception, all in support of TCP’s activities, which include education programs for all ages, a Chicago Concert Season, national and international touring, diverse collaborations and commissions of new work. Floating World Gallery, 1925 N. Halsted St., 773.234.2712, thirdcoastpercussion.com

16TH ANNUAL DANCING WITH THE GIORDANO STARS COMPETITION BENEFIT

OCT. 5, 7PM

This popular event patterned after the hit ABC series Dancing With The Stars teams Giordano Dance Company professional dancers with partners from the who’s who of Chicago’s civic, social and business communities to vie for honors before a panel of celebrity judges. Park West, 322 W. Armitage Ave., 312.922.1332, giordanodance.org

TEAM PAWS CHICAGO MARATHON

OCT. 8

Join the largest animal welfare and largest local charity team in the Bank of America Chicago Marathon and make miles matter by raising lifesaving funds for homeless pets. Runners will receive fundraising tools and support all year, free team gear and the ultimate race weekend experience with the PAWSta Party and Race Day Party featuring massages, a recovery station, a live DJ, medal engraving, a photo booth, food, beverages and more. Bank of America Chicago Marathon, 135 S. LaSalle St., 773.475.3315, teampaws.org

THE BREAKTHROUGH BALL

OCT. 14

A fall philanthropic season highlight not to be missed, The Breakthrough Ball is an evening of merriment and fundraising in support of cancer research at UChicago Medicine. For sponsorship opportunities or for more event information, contact [email protected] thebreakthroughboard.org. The Casino, 195 E. Delaware Place, thebreakthroughboard.org

UNITING VOICES CHICAGO RED JACKET OPTIONAL

OCT. 14, 6PM

Red Jacket Optional 2023 will feature some of Chicago’s most innovative, inspiring artists and exceptional dining to celebrate and elevate the choir’s ongoing impact in creating a harmonious world. This unparalleled experience allows attendees to make a profound impact on the future of Chicago’s youth while enjoying an evening of showstopping performances. The Geraghty, 2520 S. Hoyne Ave., 312.849.8300, unitingvoiceschicago.org

YMCA OF METROPOLITAN CHICAGO ANNUAL RECOGNITION DINNER

OCT. 19, 6PM

TICKETS FROM $500

The YMCA’s Annual Recognition Dinner brings together corporate and civic leaders across Chicagoland to recognize and celebrate the people and organizations who have dedicated themselves to advancing the mission of the Y. The 2023 event will also honor the YMCA of Metro Chicago’s 165th anniversary and the incredible impact the organization has delivered for decades. Morgan Manufacturing, 401 N. Morgan St., 312.763.3317, morgan-mfg.com

THE WELLNESS HOUSE BALL

OCT. 19

The Wellness House Ball is coming to Chicago at The Geraghty. This annual black-tie ball features cocktails, dinner, dancing, a live auction and a paddle raise. All proceeds benefit Wellness House programs for people with cancer, delivered free of charge at their flagship home in Hinsdale, online and throughout Chicagoland at partner locations. The Geraghty, 2520 S. Hoyne Ave., 630.654.5112, wellnesshouse.org

MUSIC OF THE BAROQUE ANNUAL GALA: A MUSICAL FEAST

OCT. 21, 5:15PM

Attendees will enjoy Champagne on arrival, followed by a gala concert, a cocktail reception, a lavish three-course meal and dancing. Black-tie attire is encouraged. Proceeds benefit Music of The Baroque and its programs including the Strong Voices arts education program. Fairmont Chicago, 200 N. Columbus Drive, 312.551.1414, baroque.org

FIELD MUSEUM BENEFIT CELEBRATION

OCT. 21, 6PM

TICKETS $1,000, TABLES $10,000, SPONSORSHIPS FROM $15,000

The Field Museum benefit celebration raises essential funds in support of its public education, research, collections and conservation work. Hosted by the Women’s Board and the Board of Trustees, this event welcomes civic leaders for a night of mission-focused programming in the elegant grandeur of the museum’s main Stanley Field Hall. Field Museum, 1400 S. DuSable Lake Shore Drive, 312.665.7130, fieldmuseum.org

MISERICORDIA WOMEN’S BOARD - HEART OF MERCY BALL

OCT. 21

The Misericordia Women’s Board is hosting the 2023 Heart of Mercy Ball. The event is a black-tie affair that brings the community together for a very special evening to benefit the more than 600 children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities who call Misericordia home and celebrate distinguished honorees. Hilton Chicago, 720 S. Michigan Ave., 773.273.4160, misericordia.com

ONSITE COLLEGE & LEADERSHIP FORUM AND RECEPTION

OCT. 24

Every year, hundreds of Chicago’s best and brightest students meet with admissions representatives from more than 180 colleges and universities. More than 3,000 admission interviews take place and, in recent years, there were more than 1,100 offers of admission and students were awarded $42 million in merit scholarships—all within a single day. The Onsite Reception allows Chicago Scholars supporters the opportunity to experience Onsite firsthand. During the reception, guests will hear stories from a variety of Chicago Scholars stakeholders, witness the excitement of college admission interviews and our leadership hub and enjoy hors d’oeuvres and drinks with fellow supporters. Venue TBD, 312.784.3300, chicagoscholars.org

8TH ANNUAL GIFT OF LIFE GALA

OCTOBER, 6PM

TICKETS FROM $350

Push the National Kidney Foundation of Illinois further along the path to progress by attending the annual Gift of Life Gala. This stylish soiree is a memorable evening of elegance and passion, raising funds to fuel the foundation’s mission, fun entertainment and civic spirit. Now in its fourth decade, the Gift of Life Gala brings together leaders in government, medicine and business, rallying support for the work and mission of the NKFI. Stand with the NKFI to raise much-needed funds for free screening programs and community health initiatives. Venue TBD, 312.321.1500, nkfi.org/gala

NOVEMBER

PILOT LIGHT’S 2023 FEED YOUR MIND GALA NOV. 3

TICKETS FROM $600

Pilot Light’s Feed Your Mind Gala offers attendees a premier culinary experience as award-winning Chicago chefs collaborate on a one-of-a-kind four-course meal. Over the past two years, these chefs have included Rick Bayless (Topolobampa and Frontera Grill), Joe Flamm (Rose Mary and BLVD Steakhouse), Beverly Kim and Johnny Clark (Wherewithall and Parachute) and more. Together, they create an unforgettable experience for guests while raising funds to bring classroom-based food education to students across Chicago and the nation. Venue TBD, 518.339.2296, pilotlightchefs.org/events

SHARE THE CARE BALL

NOV. 3, 6:30PM

TICKETS FROM $375

The Share the Care Ball is a fabulous black-tie fundraising dinner-dance gala with music by the Ken Arlen Orchestra. The event benefits Almost Home Kids, a local charity providing a bridge from hospital to home for children with medical complexities, training for their families and respite care. InterContinental Hotel, 505 N. Michigan Ave., 312.944.4100, icchicagohotel.com

DAY OF THE DEAD: LOVE NEVER DIES BALL

NOV. 4, 6PM

TICKETS FROM $125

Hosted by the National Museum of Mexican Art’s Auxiliary Board, honor life and the spirits of los muertos at the Día de los Muertos: Love Never Dies Ball and enjoy a festive evening at the National Museum of Mexican Art. Indulge in delicious culinary treats from some of Chicago’s best restaurants, sip on delicious adult beverages, enjoy exciting live music and dance the night away to DJs selections. The event’s dress code is creative cocktail, so dress to impress. National Museum of Mexican Art, 1852 W. 19th St., 312.738.1503, nationalmuseumofmexicanart.org

46TH UNION LEAGUE BOYS & GIRLS CLUBS GALA

NOV. 4, 6PM

Enjoy an elegant evening of cocktails, auctions, dinner, program and paddle raise, followed by dancing and dessert. Union League Boys & Girls Clubs have been serving youth in neighborhoods with the highest hardship index in Chicago for over 100 years. Black-tie attire preferred. Union League Club, 65 W. Jackson Blvd., 312.435.5940, ulbgc.org/ulbgc-events

LIGHTSCAPE

PREVIEW PARTY

NOV. 9

Get an exclusive first look at Lightscape 2023, an enchanting, after-dark, illuminated trail. The festive evening will include seasonal bites and beverages along the trail. Chicago Botanic Garden, 1000 Lake Cook Road, Glencoe, 847.835.6958, chicagobotanic.org/lightscape/lightscape_preview_party

CRADLES TO CRAYONS CHICAGO’S UN-GALA

NOV. 11, 10AM

SPONSORSHIP PACKAGES FROM $2,500

Un-Gala is a fun, casual volunteer experience at the new Giving Factory that includes entertainment, refreshments, snacks and special surprises. The Giving Factory, 2500 W. Bradley Place, 312.210.8708, cradlestocrayons.org/chicago/the-latest/events

WINGS TO CURE GALA

NOV. 11, 6:30PM

Join The Hippocratic Cancer Research Foundation at the Annual Black Tie Gala. Navy Pier Aon Grand Ballroom, 840 E. Grand Ave., 312.953.9567, subscribepage.io/wings

2023 3ARTS AWARDS CELEBRATION

NOV. 13, 5:30PM

TICKETS FROM $100

Returning as an in-person event for the first time since 2019, the 2023 3Arts Awards Celebration will applaud more than 20 local artists as new recipients of unrestricted awards in performing, teaching and visual arts. The event will feature performances by past award recipients and a festive afterparty with artists in the 3Arts network. Museum of Contemporary Art, 220 E. Chicago Ave., 312.443.9621, 3arts.org/event

WINTER WISHES: ANNUAL HOLIDAY COCKTAIL CELEBRATION

NOV. 16

TICKETS FROM $350

This festive celebration has become an official kickoff to Chicago’s holiday season. Guests gather to celebrate the holidays and help to make wishes come true for patients treated at Lurie Children’s. Proceeds benefit the Founders’ Board’s current fundraising commitment to the hospital’s Patrick M. Magoon Institute for Healthy Communities. Venue TBD, luriechildrens.org/winterwishes

PAWS CHICAGO 21ST ANNUAL FUR BALL

NOV. 17

The 21st annual PAWS Chicago Fur Ball is Chicago’s premier pet-friendly, black-tie gala where canine companions enjoy all festivities with their guardians, from walking the red carpet to dancing late into the night. Guests enjoy a lavish dinner buffet, one-of-a-kind silent and live auction packages, a raffle, live bands and more. Lucky dogs in attendance will also be treated to an evening of indulgences, from pet spa services to a divine dinner served at the special dog buffet. An evening of elegance and compassion, all proceeds support PAWS Chicago’s lifesaving programs that have greatly contributed to reducing the killing of homeless dogs and cats in Chicago by 92.5% since the organization’s founding in 1997 and its medical center is the country’s largest and most advanced hospital for homeless pets. The Drake Hotel, 140 E. Walton Place, 773.475.3303, pawschicago.org/furball

HYDE PARK ART CENTER ANNUAL GALA

NOV. 17, 5:30PM

TICKETS FROM $750

The renowned nonprofit hub for contemporary art located on Chicago’s vibrant South Side hosts its annual gala that activates its entire building with an afterparty that goes until midnight. The lively event is packed with hands-on art activities, performances, open studios, art auctions and a DJ set, offering a unique and interactive experience while benefiting the art center’s various programs supporting Chicago art and artists. Hyde Park Art Center, 5020 S. Cornell Ave., 773.324.5520, hydeparkart.org

JACKSON CHANCE FOUNDATION’S 9TH ANNUAL PING PONG BALL

NOVEMBER

The Ping Pong Ball is a fun, interactive party, benefiting families with critically ill infants in the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU). A party and fundraiser, all rolled up into one, the ball features everything from a table tennis tournament with celebrities and athletes to culinary treats, cocktails, auctions and more. Venue TBD, 773.580.9726, jacksonchance.org

DECEMBER

THE CHILDREN’S BALL

DEC. 2

TABLES FROM $15,000

Take part in an exciting gala evening featuring top-notch entertainment, fabulous food, dramatic theme-based decor and most importantly, fundraising to discover treatments and cures for diseases affecting young children. Co-chaired by Elizabeth and Andrew Reyes, the annual Children’s Ball caps off the Children’s Research Fund’s yearlong fundraising campaign for pediatric medical research at the Stanley Manne Children’s Research Institute, affiliated with Ann & Robert H. Lurie Children’s Hospital of Chicago. Hilton Chicago, 720 S. Michigan Ave., childrensresearchfund.org

FEBRUARY 2024

CHICAGO YOUTH SYMPHONY ORCHESTRA’S ANNUAL GALA

FEBRUARY, 6PM

Attendees will enjoy performances by Chicago Youth Symphony Orchestra’s Preparatory Strings, Kaiso Steel Orchestra, Jazz Orchestra and award-winning Symphony Orchestra, along with dinner, auction and dancing. CYSO’s biggest fundraiser of the year supports its programs which help to make music accessible for hundreds of students. Venue TBD, cyso.org

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