Northern Illinois Food Bank sets dates for signature 2026 events

Posted February 06, 2026 10:23 pm

By Katie Heraty, Northern Illinois Food Bank

Attendees gather at A Cup of Hope elegant team fundraiser for Northern Illinois Food Bank. Courtesy of Northern Illinois Food Bank

Proceeds will benefit hunger relief efforts in 13 counties

Northern Illinois Food Bank in Geneva unveils its upcoming signature fundraising events taking place in 2026.

These annual events play a vital role in raising funds and awareness for the organization’s mission to provide nutritious food and resources to neighbors in need. Each event offers an opportunity to engage with the community, enjoy meaningful experiences, and make a difference in the fight against hunger.

“When our community comes together, real change happens,” said Julie Yurko, president and CEO of Northern Illinois Food Bank. “As more families face food insecurity, these events provide critical support to help us meet the growing need. We invite our neighbors, donors, and local businesses to join us in these efforts. Together, we can solve hunger.”

A Cup of Hope

Sunday, March 1, from 1:30 to 4 p.m. at Abbington Banquets, 3S002 Route 53, Glen Ellyn

An elegant afternoon tea hosted by Northern Illinois Food Bank’s Executive Women’s Council, A Cup of Hope brings together community leaders and supporters to raise awareness and funds to help solve hunger. The 11th annual event, presented by Cultivate Power, will be emceed by ABC7 Chicago news anchor Judy Hsu. It will feature a live performance by the Lake Forest Civic Orchestra. Individual tickets for $125 are available via solvehungertoday.org/cup.

Runners take off from the start of the Northern Illinois Food Bank's annual Fight Hunger race fundraiser. The 10K, 5K and 1-mile returns on Saturday, May 2. Courtesy of Northern Illinois Food Bank

Fight Hunger 10K, 5K & 1-Mile

Saturday, May 2, from 8:30 a.m. to noon at Cantigny Park, 1S151 Winfield Road, Wheaton

This fun-filled event, presented by ALDI, features three race routes and a vibrant festival atmosphere for the whole family. Highlights include a VIP pavilion and exclusive perks for top fundraisers, a Kid’s Zone with the Windy City Mobile Gaming Truck, face painting, balloon artists, and other family-friendly activities, plus food trucks from across the area and sponsor giveaways. All funds raised will be matched by US. Foods. Sign up via solvehungertoday.org/events/.

The race fee for the 5K and 10K is $40 through March 1. From March 2 to April 27, it will be $45. On April 28 to May 2, it will be $50.

The Kids Mile is geared for children under age 12. Guardians who have registered for the 5K or 10K are welcome to accompany their little runners to serve as a warm up for your race. Big kids (aka adults) who aren't ready to commit to a 5K or 10K are welcome at the start line too! Cost is $30 through April 27. It will be $35 from April 28 to May 2.

A Taste That Matters attendees enjoy tastings from local restaurants and raffle. Proceeds benefit hunger relief efforts in Northern Illinois. Courtesy of Northern Illinois Food Bank

A Taste That Matters

Wednesday, May 20, from 6 to 8:30 p.m. at Drury Lane, 100 Drury Lane, Oakbrook Terrace

This premier culinary event, presented by Jewel-Osco, brings together local restaurants and chefs for an evening of delicious dining, all in support of hunger relief across Northern Illinois. Sponsorships and restaurant participation are currently open. Learn more at SolveHungerToday.org/events/.

Hunger Scramble Golf Outing and Smash Hunger Classic Pickleball Tournament

Monday, Aug. 17, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. at White Eagle Golf Club, 3400 Club Drive Naperville

Participants will enjoy a round of golf or a match on the pickleball courts alongside colleagues, customers, partners, and friends, with food and beverages, interactive games, and a raffle and silent auction set against the backdrop of a beautiful course and courts. It is presented Old Second National Bank. Learn more at SolveHungerToday.org/events/.

Enjoy a round of golf at Northern Illinois Food Bank Hunger Scramble Golf Outing on Monday, Aug. 17, at White Eagle Golf Club in Naperville. Or sign up for the Smash Hunger Classic Pickleball Tournament. Courtesy of Northern Illinois Food Bank

Tickets, entries, and sponsorships are still available.

To learn more or get involved, visit SolveHungerToday.org.

Northern Illinois Food Bank focuses on delivering food and healthy eating services to the Northern Illinois community. As part of the national Feeding America network, the 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization serves people in 13 counties by providing 250,000 meals per day. The 13 counties are: Boone, DeKalb, DuPage, Grundy, Kane, Kankakee, Kendall, Lake, McHenry, Ogle, Stephenson, Will and Winnebago. They partner with more than 900 food pantries, soup kitchens, shelters, and youth and senior feeding programs to provide nutritious food and resources. Distribution centers are located in Geneva, Lake Forest, Rockford and Joliet.