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Gala Benefit Evening

Gala Benefit Evening 2026: Marin Alsop, Yunchan Lim, Lizzo, Chicago Symphony Orchestra

Supporting Ravinia and our Reach Teach Play® education and community programs

Saturday, July 11, 2026
at Ravinia Festival

Thank you for a spectacular evening!

We are still floating on the incredible energy from celebrating the Opening Night of Ravinia’s 2026 season, the Women’s Board’s landmark 60th Gala, and the Chicago Symphony Orchestra’s 90th year at Ravinia.

Gala Portraits

The performances in the stunning new Hunter Pavilion were unforgettable, from pianist Yunchan Lim’s artistry to Lizzo’s flute solos and her duet with our very own star from Reach Teach Play, Kaylee Johnson. Under the dinner tent, Steans alum Janai Brugger sang a gorgeous encore, and the energetic dance floor filled with friends was a joy we won’t soon forget.

More than anything, we are so deeply grateful for our guests’ incredible generosity. Heading into the evening, we were astounded by historic attendance of more than 760, as well as record advance revenue of over $1.1 million. And then the live paddle raise in the tent shattered last year’s total, bringing in an additional $458,500 to transform young lives through music. Kaylee’s moving testimonial—along with the beautiful video tribute (below) from the concert—reminded us all exactly why we gather to support the Ravinia Festival and its mission. Your open hearts made this milestone year an unprecedented success.

Supporting Music Education

This special evening is the only performance fundraiser benefiting Ravinia and our Reach Teach Play programs, which annually serve over 50,000 people year-round, including more than 20,000 students in Chicago and Lake County public schools. Ravinia opens doors to the positive impact of music through Reach Teach Play, providing children and families in underserved schools and communities with live performances and music education programs where they learn and live, as well as at Ravinia.

Lead Reach Teach Play Sponsor: Allstate_2022_RGB-K.svg

The Ravinia Women’s Board gratefully acknowledges the following sponsors for their generous support of this evening:

Concert Sponsor:

The Dancing Skies Foundation

Jazz Scholars Performance Sponsor:

BMO

Media Support: Sheridan Road

Music Is a Gift

Ravinia is a not-for-profit organization that creates access to the joy of live music through educational programs, professional training, community engagement, and exceptional performances in a welcoming setting.

For more information about the Gala Benefit Evening, or assistance with Gala tickets and becoming a Gala Benefactor or sponsor, please contact us at 847‑266‑5047 or gala@ravinia.org.