Sponsor the Big Fish Ball

Earth Day is a moment to lead with purpose, and to stand alongside others committed to protecting the environment. This year, Friends of the Chicago River invites your organization to gather with a community dedicated to protecting and restoring the environment by sponsoring our 20th annual Big Fish Ball, an elegant Earth Day on the River celebration on April 16 aboard the Odyssey Chicago River. More than a single evening on the water, sponsorship unlocks meaningful Earth Month employee engagement opportunities throughout April, connecting your team directly to the health of the 156-mile Chicago-Calumet River system and the wildlife that depends on it.

Sponsorship details are available online.

The Big Fish Ball is one of our most anticipated fundraisers of the year, bringing together Friends of the Chicago River supporters, partners, and civic leaders for a festive evening celebrating our shared commitment to protecting and restoring the river. With newly designed sponsorship packages, we aim to strengthen connections between your organization, your team, and nature through hands-on and educational experiences. Earth Month activities include policy and outreach talks, litter-free river cleanups, and restorative forestry projects.

On April 16, we will welcome hundreds of guests for a lively evening dedicated to environmental health, student education, cleaner waterways, and a river system that is accessible to all. Guests will also enjoy a silent auction featuring exciting items, from luxury travel and unique nights out to outdoor gear and more.

To learn more, contact Annie Hanrahan, Director of Development, at ahanrahan@chicagoriver.org or (312) 939-0490, ext. 19.