Sponsor Cole Haan created an interactive booth in the Experiences Hub. The company invited guests to design the cover of their future memoir. The book cover was then printed and wrapped around a sketchbook for them to take home.
#6 Theater, Dance & Music Event (up from #8)
Marking the 400th anniversary of Shakespeare’s death, this year’s gala raised a record $1.4 million. It drew 500 guests, as compared to 350 guests in 2015. Held at Navy Pier, the evening featured a performance from actor Alan Cumming. It culminated in a fireworks show set to live music from the Chicago Symphony Orchestra. Next: Spring 2017
#21 Benefit (new to the list)
Now in its ninth year, the event drew 600 guests and raised some $1.2 million. For the first time, the gala moved from a hotel ballroom to take place in a raw event space: the Geraghty. The venue gave designers from Kehoe a blank canvas on which to create a striking, whimsical setting that included oversize paper daisies and a ceiling of suspended Slinkys. Singer Vanessa Williams performed. Next: Spring 2017
Thrillist's lounge at the family-friendly event featured branded building blocks for kids.
