Light the Way Fundraiser

LIGHT THE WAY: A NIGHT FOR THE CHICAGO HARBOR LIGHTHOUSE

Presented by the Friends of the Chicago Harbor Lighthouse

In partnership with Wendella Boats – Chicago’s Original Architectural Tour

This event would not be possible without the incredibly generous support of Wendella Boats and the Borgstrom Family, who donated the use of their beautiful vessel, Lila, to help us launch this annual tradition. As Chicago’s original architectural tour, Wendella has been guiding residents and visitors along the Chicago River and lakefront for 90 years. For all those years, the Chicago Harbor Lighthouse, has stood as a steadfast beacon just beyond the river’s mouth, watching over generations of Wendella cruises, sailors, tourists, and families alike.

This collaboration is more than symbolic. It’s a shared legacy of protecting, celebrating, and interpreting the story of Chicago’s relationship with the water, from the city’s earliest shipping days to today's skyline and river cruises.

THe Details

📅 Date: Thursday, August 7, 2025

🕕 Time: 6:00 PM - 8:00 PM

📍 Departure: Wendella Boats, West Dock #4, Rush Street and Kinzie Street

🎟 Donation: $100 per person

🍴 Includes: Light Appetizers + Cash Bar

Join us aboard Wendella Boats for an unforgettable evening cruise as we celebrate National Lighthouse Day and honor Wendella’s 90th Anniversary of service to the City of Chicago.

This special event will benefit the Friends of the Chicago Harbor Lighthouse and raise critical funds to help us prepare for the rehabilitation of one of the city’s most iconic and beloved landmarks, in preparation for its opening for public tours.

Enjoy:

A beautiful river and lakefront cruise aboard Chicago’s premier tour boat
A special presentation on the Past, Present, and Future of the Chicago Harbor Lighthouse
Up-close views of the lighthouse as the sun sets on Lake Michigan
Light appetizers and a full-service cash bar
Silent auction featuring exclusive merchandise, exclusive private lighthouse tours, and learn about once-in-a-lifetime opportunities to leave your family’s legacy on the lighthouse

This first annual fundraiser marks the beginning of a bold new chapter for Chicago’s only offshore lighthouse—and your support helps us open its doors to the public for the first time in generations.

Tickets go on sale June 1, 2025. Space is limited—reserve your place early!

Learn more at www.SaveTheLighthouse.org

Let’s light the way—together.

Purchase Tickets

PLATINUM SPONSOR - $25,000

“The steadfast leader guiding the mission.”

Benefits:

Premier logo placement on all event signage, invitations, website, and press releases
Verbal recognition during the event program and the lighthouse presentation
Opportunity to speak or introduce a special guest during the cruise
10 complimentary cruise tickets
Private VIP tour of the Chicago Harbor Lighthouse for up to 6 guests
Name/logo featured on a “Founding Lightkeepers” plaque at the lighthouse
First access to the silent auction items
Featured profile in FOCHL newsletter and annual donor report
Recognition across all FOCHL social media platforms

GOLD SPONSOR - $15,000

"Leading the charge to preserve our light.”

Benefits:

Prominent logo placement on all event signage, invitations, website, and press releases
Verbal recognition during the event program and the lighthouse presentation
Opportunity to speak or introduce a special guest during the cruise
6 complimentary cruise tickets
Name/logo featured on a “Founding Lightkeepers” plaque at the lighthouse
First access to the silent auction items
Featured profile in FOCHL newsletter and annual donor report
Recognition across all FOCHL social media platforms

Come Join us for an evening of lighthouse fun & fundraising

LIGHT THE WAY: A NIGHT FOR THE CHICAGO HARBOR LIGHTHOUSE

THe Details

Please consider becoming an Event sponsor

Come Join us for an evening of lighthouse fun & fundraising

LIGHT THE WAY: A NIGHT FOR THE CHICAGO HARBOR LIGHTHOUSE

THe Details

Please consider becoming an Event sponsor

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