Fall marks back-to-school season for some—and a packed gala season for others. As pumpkin spice lattes return to coffeehouse menus, some of Chicago’s most iconic nonprofits roll out the red carpet for donors, hosting their biggest benefits of the year.
Between early September and mid-October, several major fundraisers took place in the Windy City. Here, we take a peek inside three of the city’s glitziest, highest-netting galas, showcasing the most inspired decor, catering, and entertainment ideas from each one.
Lyric Opera of Chicago Presents An Evening With Audra McDonald
Photo: Kyle Flubacher
Photo: Jacylyn Simpson
The Museum of Science and Industry’s Columbian Ball
Photo: Courtesy of Museum of Science and Industry
Photo: Courtesy of Museum of Science and Industry
Photo: Courtesy of Museum of Science and Industry
Photo: Courtesy of Museum of Science and Industry
Photo: Courtesy of Museum of Science and Industry
Adler Planetarium’s Celestial Bash
Photo: Ana Miyares
Photo: Ana Miyares
Photo: Ana Miyares
Photo: Ana Miyares