Top 100 events Chicago

#1 Benefit
In 2015, the prestigious benefit netted more than $2.9 million and drew 750 guests. Because of its success, the gala has served as a model fund-raiser for other chapters of the society. In addition to raising serious funds, the event showcases unique style ideas. This year’s theme was “Accelerating the Cure,” and HMR Designs’ decor was inspired by the speed of light. Comedian Paul Reiser also performed. In 2016, the event will celebrate its 10th anniversary. Next: April 2, 2016

#2 Benefit (up from #6)
This year, the gala raised $4.9 million for the charity that benefits local teens. The 1,000-guest event was held on Navy Pier, and co-chairs included Ariel Investments president Mellody Hobson and director George Lucas (Hobson’s husband). Throughout the evening, After School Matters teens performed and showcased their artwork. Next: September 19, 2016

#3 Benefit
Formerly known as the Chance of a Lifetime gala, the event was given a new name in 2014. Last year, the enormous fund-raiser drew 2,000 guests and was staffed by 350 volunteers; it raked in more than $4.1 million. This year’s event will take place in December, and the headline act is REO Speedwagon. Next: December 12, 2015

#4 Benefit (up from #7)
The ball had its most successful fund-raising year to date in 2015, bringing in $2 million for Make-A-Wish Illinois. (Last year, it raised $1.4 million.) Headliner Jay Leno performed, and unique auction lots included tours of Leno's Big Dog Garage. Some 960 guests attended. Next: May 21, 2016

#5 Benefit (up from #9)
With a “Metamorphosis" theme, this year’s event drew a record-breaking $2 million (up from $1.67 million in 2014). Some 770 guests attended the function, which featured an aquatic show, a paddle raise that brought in $280,000, and a creative Sodexo dinner that featured edible terrariums. Next: June 11, 2016

#6 Benefit (up from #14)
Attendance at this year’s springtime gala was 760, which was considerably higher than the 600-guest attendance in 2014. The event raised more money this year as well, bringing in $1.85 million as opposed to $1.52 million the previous year. Highlights of the annual event include a cocktail-hour tour of the museum’s butterfly house; guests also have the opportunity to chat with museum scientists. Next: May 6, 2016

#7 Benefit (up from #8)
Hosted by the Women’s Board of the Field Museum, this year’s gala had a “Wonders of China” theme inspired by a current exhibition. Blue Plate created a thematic meal, complete with Mongolian beef short ribs. The event drew some 550 guests and raised $2 million, which marks an increase over the $1.7 million raised in 2014. Next: October 2016

#8 Benefit
The 54th annual Golden Fellowship dinner returned to the Hilton Chicago this year. The evening’s program included a red carpet entrance and champagne reception, dinner, a performance from R&B singer Brandy, and an after-party. Comedian Damon Williams was the host, and the 1400 guests included well-known political figures such as Mayor Rahm Emanuel and Jesse Jackson. The evening's honorees were author Isabel Wilkerson and civil rights leader Timuel Black. Next year, the gala will celebrate the league's 100th anniversary. Next: November 2016

#9 Benefit
This year’s Columbian Ball raised more than $2 million for the Chicago museum. The night had robotic surprises (such as drones flying through cocktail hour), inspired by the "Robot Revolution" exhibition. There was also 1920s-style decor from Kehoe, and an after-party featuring DJ Questlove. Next: October 1, 2016

#10 Benefit
The benefit was founded by Rita Hayworth’s daughter, Princess Yasmin Aga Kahn, and each year, the it takes place at the Hilton Chicago during Mother’s Day weekend. In 2015, it raised more than $1.3 million and drew 865 guests; it also inspired a feature article in Michigan Avenue magazine. The evening featured entertainment from Orchestra 33’s Party Gras Band, as well as a cocktail reception, a three-course dinner, and auctions. Next: May 7, 2016

#11 Benefit
Some 900 guests attend the black-tie fund-raiser, which returned to Navy Pier’s Grand Ballroom this year. The event had an expansive silent auction, a dinner program with a live auction and a heart-tugging video, and an after-party dubbed “Ignite the Night.” It raked in $2.2 million. Next: April 9, 2016

#12 Benefit
Composer and lyricist Stephen Sondheim received the Carl Sandburg Literary Award at this year’s event. The gathering took place at the University of Illinois at Chicago, where organizers sat an author or artist at each table to interact with donors. The event drew nearly 700 guests and raised more than $1.5 million. Next: October 2016

#13 Benefit (new to the list)
Based in Israel, the Weizmann Institute of Science hosts an annual Chicago benefit that raises substantial funds for its scientists’ research efforts. This year, the event drew some 800 guests—including prominent business leaders and Mayor Rahm Emanuel—and raised a record-breaking $1.8 million. The evening featured an discussion on brain-related diseases between three of the institute’s scientists. Next: October 29, 2016

#14 Benefit
With an “Arctic Blast” theme, this year’s function had wintry decor from HMR Designs and Frost. The event, which drew more than 850 guests, raised around $1.1 million. The zoo’s carousel is left open for rides during the ball, and guests don animal-inspired black-tie garb. Next: July 15, 2016

#15 Benefit (up from #20)
This year, the event stayed on celestial theme with star-shaped butter on bread plates and a giant moon cutout that served as a photo backdrop. The ball raised $1.7 million for programming. Organizers connected guests to the cause by having local high school students perform science experiments at dinner tables. In recent years, the event has changed its format by adding a tent for cocktail and dessert receptions. Next: September 2016

#16 Benefit
Last year, the event celebrated the more than $2.7 million brought in by the Children’s Fund for the Lurie Children's Hospital throughout the year. This year’s black-tie event will have the theme: “Imagine! Bringing Possibilities to Life.” A return feature will be the “science fair for grown-ups,” where physician-researchers offer brief demonstrations during cocktail hour. Next: December 5, 2015

#17 Benefit (up from #18)
Popular with foodies and philanthropists alike, the winter benefit offers hors d’oeuvres prepared by top local chefs. It also includes the presentation of the Jean Banchet Awards for Culinary Excellence. This year, the event drew 900 guests and raised $500,000. Its theme was “Dubai—The Golden City.” Next year’s event will take place in a new venue: Navy Pier’s Grand Ballroom. Next: January 29, 2016

#18 Benefit (up from #21)
The 34th annual gala, titled “Wild Wild Whirl,” raised more than $1.2 million. During the cocktail hour, guests mingled with live animals, including a pink flamingo called Warren and an armadillo named B.J. Some 625 guests attended. Next: April 30, 2016

#19 Benefit (up from #24)
This year, the event (formerly known as the “Medicine Ball”) got a new name and took place at a new venue: the Radisson Blu Aqua Hotel. The program included cocktails, dinner, and dancing to a DJ. The evening raised a record-breaking $1.5 million (compared to $1 million in 2014) and drew some 400 guests. Next: Fall 2016

#20 Benefit
It is the sole fund-raising event for the volunteer board of Northwestern Memorial Hospital. With a “Magic of Prentice" theme underscored by actors dressed as fairy-tale characters, this year’s benefit took place at the Four Seasons Hotel. The 2015 affair drew some 400 guests and grossed nearly $1 million. The evening included a live auction with prizes such as a trip to Paris. Next: Fall 2016

#21 Benefit (up from #22)
For the 66th annual ball, 400 guests headed to the Grand Ballroom on Navy Pier. The night raised a record $1.4 million in support of local youth programs. The night featured decor by HMR Designs and live entertainment from the band Final Say. Next: May 20, 2016

#22 Benefit
The whimsical event always features an appearance by Ronald McDonald and has a kid-friendly theme. This year, the event was inspired by the big-top circus and featured popcorn-filled centerpieces, circus performers, and red-and-white striped decor. The night drew 800 guests and raised $540,000. The 2016 event will have a “Mission: Possible” theme. Next: March 5, 2016

#23 Benefit
More than 425 guests attended this year’s function on garden grounds. The elegant evening celebrated the 125th anniversary of the Chicago Horticultural Society, which helps maintain the garden, and it featured blue-and-white decor from Event Creative. The night raised $500,000. Next: June 2016

#24 Benefit
Benefiting the Chicago Gateway Green, this year’s event had a Studio 54 theme and took place at Venue One. The event features live DJs, casino games, and tastings from local restaurants. The bash—which drew 1,700 guests this year—is particularly popular among the young-philanthropist crowd. It raised $257,000. Next: September 2016

#1 Art & Architecture Event
North America’s largest design exposition and conference for commercial interiors drew more than 50,000 international attendees this year. Held at the sprawling Merchandise Mart, the event had new features including a NeoCon app and new educational programming. As the unofficial kickoff to the weekend event, Design Industries Foundation Fighting AIDS hosts its "Imagine" gala at Navy Pier. Next: June 13-15, 2016

#2 Art & Architecture Event
The kickoff to the fall art season in Chicago, the expo is held at Navy Pier. In 2015, it showcased works from 140 international galleries and had a record attendance of 35,000 guests. New this year was the Greater Midwest Curatorial Forum, which drew participation from 25 of the region’s top curators. Next: September 22-25, 2016

#3 Art & Architecture Event
An acronym for Sculptural Objects and Functional Art, the event showcases jewelry, textiles, glass, and more from some 70 galleries. It takes place annually at Navy Pier; this year, the fair had an updated floor plan. It drew some 36,000 guests and had a number of special exhibits. Next: November 4-6, 2016

#4 Art & Architecture Event
Hosted by Design Industries Foundation Fighting AIDS, the showcase of tabletop trends is held at the Merchandise Mart. The event features work by big-name interior designers, event designers, architecture firms, and more. This year, communal dining was the theme. Next: November 2016

#5 Art & Architecture Event
Some 30,000 art enthusiasts attend the fair, which is held in the historic Old Town Triangle district. This year’s event showcased some 250 artists; guests perused paintings, jewelry, photography, and more. The event also features a garden walk through 60 home gardens. Next: June 11-12, 2016

#6 Art & Architecture Event (new to the list)
Established by a silversmith in 1948, the event is known as the oldest juried art fair in the Midwest. With an annual attendance of 20,000 guests, the fair features the work of 200 artists from all over North America. Each year, 50 to 75 of the exhibitors are new. In 2015, there was a new People’s Choice Award. Next: June 4-5, 2016

#7 Art & Architecture Event (up from #8)
In October, the event celebrated its 60th anniversary with a sold-out celebration at Navy Pier. Some 1,000 guests attended the gathering, which included the presentation of the first-ever "Ten-Year Award" to the Joan W. and Irving B. Harris Theater for Music and Dance (which has been open for 10 years). The event’s attendance was approximately 10 percent higher than in 2014. Next: Fall 2016

#8 Art & Architecture Event (up from #9)
Held at the Ritz-Carlton, Chicago, the event takes place each June during NeoCon. In 2015, the black-tie affair honored the winners of two prestigious competitions: the annual Interior Design Competition and the 22nd annual Will Ching Design Competition. Next: June 12, 2016

#9 Art & Architecture Event (up from #10)
At the industry function, the Illinois chapter of the U.S. Green Building Council celebrates environmentally friendly business leaders, government officials, and building practitioners. In 2015, the event returned to the Museum of Broadcast Communications and its theme was “Celebrating Achievements in Sustainability.” Next: Spring 2016

#1 Theater, Dance & Music Event (up from #2)
This year’s fund-raiser celebrated the orchestra’s 125th anniversary. Prior to the evening’s sold-out performance, conducted by maestro Riccardo Mutti, a special exhibition showcased artifacts from the institution’s history. Following the concert, some 500 guests headed to the Palmer House Hilton hotel for a lavish dinner dance. The event raised a record $2.1 million. Next: October 15, 2016

#2 Theater, Dance & Music Event
In 2015, the glamorous evening began with a performance of Mozart’s "Marriage of Figaro." Next, some 500 music fans headed to the Hilton Chicago for dinner, dancing, and a trumpeted procession featuring the opera’s stars and staff. HMR Designs decked the ballroom in magnolia branches, and icons of the music genre—including soprano Renée Fleming—were in attendance. The event raised $1.1 million net revenue. Next: October 1, 2016

#3 Theater, Dance & Music Event
The theater company’s prestigious event drew some 550 guests and raised $1.2 million this year. On the guest list were well-known ensemble members such as Gary Sinise and Joan Allen, and the evening included a performance of scenes from The Way West. After the show, a tented dinner featured English garden-inspired decor from Event Creative, and a rousing live auction featured packages donated by actors. Next: May 16, 2016

#4 Theater, Dance & Music Event (up from #6)
The 2015 event began with a dance performance in a new location: the Cadillac Palace Theatre. Champagne partner Moët hosted a toast at the theater, and the program included a work by of-the-moment choreographer Justin Peck. Afterwards, some 850 guests traveled to the Hilton Chicago for cocktails and a specially prepared dinner that incorporated microgreens gown just for the occasion. Following dinner, guests hit the dance floor alongside the ballet company’s stars. The event raised more than $1 million. Next: Spring 2016

#5 Theater, Dance & Music Event
At the 49th annual benefit, Israeli violinist Maxim Vengerov played a selection of Tchaikovsky’s works alongside maestro James Conlon and the Chicago Symphony Orchestra. Afterwards, some 650 guests sat for dinner in a lavishly decorated tent on concert grounds. Hosted by the women's board, the event raised more than $1 million for the "Reach, Teach, Play" education programs. Next: July 23, 2016

#6 Theater, Dance & Music Event
Popular Broadway star Sutton Foster performed at this year’s 1920s-theme event. Dubbed “Puttin’ on the Glitz,” the affair featured Art Deco-style decor from Kehoe Designs. Imaginative touches included models dressed in flapper gear, posing in bathtubs, and sipping champagne at the cocktail reception. The event drew approximately 500 guests to the Fairmont Chicago Hotel and raised $900,000. Next: Spring 2016

#7 Theater, Dance & Music Event (up from #8)
Billed as the nation’s largest dance festival, the five-night event featured 25 free performances from 16 national dance troupes this year. An estimated 10,000 guests attended the performances. For the first time, an evening called "Modern Women" spotlighted works from female choreographers. Programming also included a new benefit performance that honored festival founder Lar Lubovitch. Next: Summer 2016

#8 Theater, Dance & Music Event (up from #9)
This year’s event drew 350 guests and raised $1.2 million to support programming. Held on Navy Pier, the evening featured actors dressed as Shakespearean characters, a three-course dinner by Food for Thought, and a live auction. The event traditionally draws big names from the theater world, and past attendees have included Audra McDonald and Stephen Sondheim. Next: April 26, 2016

#9 Theater, Dance & Music Event (new to the list)
The popular benefit regularly appears on the social pages of local magazines. This year, it took place at the West Loop's Morgan Manufacturing and featured performances by jazz vocalist Kurt Elling and 200 members of the children's choir. The event drew 600 guests (up from 575 last year) and raised a record $957,101. Next: October 21, 2016

#10 Theater, Dance & Music Event
The experimental theater company hosts an imaginative annual fund-raiser, where tropes have included “fire organs” and dancing skeletons. This year, the event started with a seated dinner for 325 theater lovers; a late-night party drew an additional 180 guests. The event netted $300,000. Next: March 12, 2016

#11 Theater, Dance & Music Event
This year’s gala, held at the Fairmont Chicago, raised more than $800,000. Among the 450 guests was Los Angeles philanthropist Glorya Kaufman who presented an award to William Forsythe, associate choreographer with the Paris Opera Ballet. Mayor Rahm Emanuel also presented an award to the company's corporate sponsor, Archer Daniels Midland Company. Next: June 9, 2016

#12 Theater, Dance & Music Event
With an “Evening in Wonderland” theme, this year’s benefit drew 350 guests and raised $700,000. The Lookingglass Civic Engagement awards were presented to two local notables: chef Rick Bayless and Steppenwolf Theater’s artistic director, Martha Lavey. Company co-founder and former Friends star David Schwimmer was the M.C. Next: April 2, 2016

#13 Theater, Dance & Music Event
The company for L.G.B.T. youth gave its gala an Andy Warhol theme this year. The event featured cocktails served in tomato soup cans, cocktails named after Warhol's notorious "superstars," and tons of Mylar balloons. More than 400 guests attended, helping to raise approximately $60,000. Underlining the event's creative vibe, guests wore modern-art-inspired attire—including a body suit made of candy. Next: Spring 2016

#14 Theater, Dance & Music Event
This year, the industry gathering brought 230 guests to the Renaissance Blackstone Hotel for a cocktail reception, dinner, and an award presentation. The function raised $110,000 to support the programming at 240 theater companies. Next: May 2016

#1 Trade Show & Convention
Founded in 1901, it is the United States’ largest and longest-running auto show. Showcasing some 1,000 vehicles, the event spans 1.3 million square feet of McCormick Place. The popular First Look for Charity bash, held on the eve of the show's opening, draws 10,000 guests. Other gatherings include the “Women Driving Excellence” event, which celebrates female leaders in business and philanthropy. Next: February 13-21, 2016

#2 Trade Show & Convention
The show for food-service professionals draws 63,000 attendees and features more than 2,000 exhibitors. In 2015, the event saw a three percent rise in registration in its key buyer category. Exhibit space also grew by more than eight percent. The event is co-located with the Beverage Alcohol for Restaurants (or B.A.R.) show, which also saw increased registration this year. The event draws restaurant-industry icons including celebrity chefs; it also inspires off-site events across the city. Next: May 21-24, 2016

#3 Trade Show & Convention
Held annually at McCormick Place, the show comprises four expos with distinct themes such as “Clean, Contain, and Sustain.” In 2015, the event featured more than 2,115 exhibitors, including 442 that were new. It also saw increased registration from buyers. Next year’s expo will get new branding and graphics. Next: March 5-8, 2016

#4 Trade Show & Convention
Launched in 2010, the celebration of comics, anime, and pop culture has seen steadily rising attendance. In 2015, the event drew 71,000 guests to McCormick Place, an increase from 2014's 67,000 fans. Next: March 18-20, 2016
Correction: The original version of this story listed the incorrect attendance numbers.

#5 Trade Show & Convention
Some 65,000 beauty-industry pros flocked to the sprawling trade show in 2015. Produced by Cosmetologists Chicago, the event saw around 450 exhibitors, and one company—Lash Now—hired the Backstreet Boys to perform at its booth. Other exhibitors included Paul Mitchell, Aveda, and Redken. New this year, the event had two education and entertainment stages. Next: March 12-14, 2016

#6 Trade Show & Convention (up from #7)
Sponsored by the National Confectioners Association, the show had some 630 exhibitors in 2015, and 121 were first-time exhibitors. According to organizers, booth space was maxed out for the popular expo, and 200 companies were on the exhibitor waiting list. Around 16,000 industry pros attended, and the show was highlighted on the Today show. The 2016 event will add a new exhibit hall with a second education theater, 150 more exhibitors, a networking lounge, and an Innovation Alley featuring confectionery and snack start-ups. Next: May 24-26, 2016

#7 Trade Show & Convention
In late November, the meeting and expo will celebrate the society’s 100-year anniversary. Typical attendance at the show is 50,000; some 700 exhibitors display new technology on the show floor. Next: November 29-December 4, 2015

#8 Trade Show & Convention (up from #10)
Billed as the largest technology conference in the Midwest, the event saw approximately 13,000 attendees in 2015. Attractions included everything from a hackathon to a tech fashion show, and some 125 speakers presented on four stages at the Merchandise Mart. T-Mobile was the new presenting sponsor, and the event also has a new C.E.O., Katy Lynch. Next: June 2016

#9 Trade Show & Convention
In 2015, two of Chicago’s biggest winter boat shows—the Chicago Boat, Sports & R.V. Show, and Strictly Sail Chicago—joined forces. The new, combined event was held at McCormick Place. It offered some 500 exhibitors and had more than 47,000 attendees. There were plenty of family-friendly activities, including indoor boating and a fishing pond for kids. Next: January 14-18, 2016

#1 Sports Event
Traveling through 29 Chicago neighborhoods, the massive sporting event drew some 45,000 runners in 2015. More than two million spectators cheered on the athletes. Bank of America is the presenting sponsor. Next: October 9, 2016

#2 Sports Event
Broadcast on national television, the Arlington Million is known as the first event of its kind to offer a $1 million purse. With some 32,0000 annual guests, the summertime affair draws horses, trainers, and jockeys from across the globe. This year, the race had its first Illinois-bred winner: a gelding named the Pizza Man. Next: August 2016

#3 Sports Event
The Bank of America-sponsored event is billed as the world’s largest eight-kilometer road race and is the unofficial kickoff to outdoor running season in Chicago. In 2015, approximately 23,000 runners participated; many donned festive gear, including sparkly green hats. Next: April 3, 2016

#4 Sports Event
The early morning bike ride takes place along a 30-mile stretch of Lakeshore Drive, which is closed to traffic for the occasion. The ride raises funds for the Active Transportation Alliance, and typically draws some 20,000 cyclists. Next: May 2016

#5 Sports Event
Part of the Susan G. Komen “Race for the Cure” series—which is known as the largest series of 5K runs and fitness walks in the world—the event takes place on Mother’s Day. This year, the race had some 8,000 participants. Approximately $1 million was raised at race time. Next: May 8, 2016

#6 Sports Event (up from #9)
Lady Gaga and Vince Vaughn were among the individuals who plunged into Lake Michigan for the Polar Plunge in March. Now in its 15th year, the fund-raiser for Special Olympics Chicago drew more participation this year, drawing 4,500 plungers as opposed to 3,200 in 2014. This year's event also raised more, raking in more than $1.2 million. Next: Winter 2016

#7 Sports Event
One of the world’s largest triathlons, the event has been taking place for more than 30 years. In 2014, it underwent some changes—including a new start sequence and refreshed bike course—to combat congestion. Transamerica was this year’s title sponsor, and the event drew 9,300 participants, marking growth since 2014’s event, which had 9,000 participants. Next: August 28, 2016

#8 Sports Event
Now in its 14th year, the event saw more than 2,500 runners and walkers in 2015. At race time, the participants had raised some $386,000 to support 36 organizations. The event’s opening ceremonies included a live performance of “Seasons of Love” from the musical Rent. After the race, participants had the chance to view the AIDS Memorial Quilt. Next: September 2016

#9 Sports Event
Kicking off from Buckingham Fountain at 1 a.m., Chicago’s largest late-night biking event draws some 8,000 cyclists. The ride is noncompetitive and raises funds for Friends of the Parks. There’s also a post-ride breakfast in Grant Park and a contest for “Best Lit Bike and Helmet.” In 2015, the event added a new 15-mile route to its usual 25-mile route. Next: June 2016