Events
Throughout the year, the Clarendon Hills Infant Welfare Society (CHIW) brings the community together through signature fundraising events, including the Witches Ride, Luminaria, and our annual Spring Gala. These beloved events are open to the community and help support our mission of improving the lives of children and families in need.
Members also enjoy exclusive opportunities to connect, give back, and create lasting memories through special social, philanthropic, and family-friendly activities.
Witches Ride
CHIW’s Witches Ride is a beloved fall event that brings together women from across the community for an evening of fun, friendship, and philanthropy. Each October, participants don their most creative witch hats, costumes, and festive attire as they ride through the streets of Clarendon Hills, spreading Halloween spirit and celebrating the power of community.
Grab your broom (or bike!) and join us for the 7th Annual Witches Ride on
Saturday, October 17th
Ride 4:00-5:00 PM | After-Party 5:00-7:00 PM
Coat Drive
CHIW’s Coat Drive is an annual community effort dedicated to helping children, women, and men stay warm throughout the winter months. Through generous community support and partnerships with local organizations, residents can either donate gently used coats at designated collection locations, where they are professionally cleaned by CD One Price Cleaners before distribution, or contribute funds to The Warming Project to directly purchase new coats for those in need. Together, these efforts provide warmth, dignity, and essential support to thousands of individuals and families during Chicago’s coldest season.
Luminaria Sales
For generations, the Clarendon Hills Luminaria tradition has been a cherished part of the holiday season, illuminating the streets of Clarendon Hills each Christmas Eve with hundreds of glowing luminaria. More than a beautiful display of holiday cheer, luminaria sales serve as an important fundraiser that supports the mission of the Clarendon Hills Infant Welfare Society, helping strengthen our community while bringing neighbors together to celebrate the warmth, beauty, and spirit of the season.
November 27th - December 24th
One of CHIW’s newest traditions, the Holiday Walk Warm-Up brings together families, friends, and neighbors for a festive gathering at Village Hall during the Clarendon Hills Holiday Walk. Guests can enjoy hot chocolate, cider, cookies, a holiday movie, and visits from the dancing Giant Gingerbread Man while reconnecting with familiar faces, meeting new friends, and embracing the spirit of the season. Whether stopping in before a sleigh ride, waiting for a visit with Santa, or simply enjoying the festive atmosphere, participants help celebrate the warmth, joy, and sense of community that make Clarendon Hills so special.
Saturday, December 5th | 4:00-8:00 PM
Holiday Walk Warm-Up
Spring Gala
Held each year as one of the community's most anticipated fundraising events, our annual gala brings together friends, neighbors, and supporters for an evening of celebration, philanthropy, and purpose. From exciting auction experiences and inspiring stories to unforgettable entertainment, the gala shines a light on the power of giving back.
In 2026, thanks to the incredible generosity of our sponsors, donors, volunteers, and guests, the event raised more than $350,000, continuing a five-year trajectory of over $1.5M raised to expand access to quality healthcare for medically underserved families across Chicagoland. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to everyone whose commitment helps illuminate brighter futures and makes a lasting impact.
Friday, May 14th, 2027