Giving back: WeishFest enters 10th year of helping families facing cancer
Come experience an exciting evening of national artists at one of Chicago's newest venues while raising money to help support families battling cancer.
The 10th annual WeishFest 2023 is set for Saturday, Nov. 4, at the Salt Shed, 1357 N. Elston Ave., Chicago. Doors open for a preshow at 3:30 p.m., then at 4:30 p.m. for all ticketholders. The impressive lineup of acts include Natasha Bedingfield, Randy Houser, Plain White T's, American Authors and Locash.
Andrew Weishar died in 2012 of colorectal cancer at age 21 with one request - to pay forward the kindness shown to his family during his battle with cancer. From that request, WeishFest was born and since then has granted nearly $3 million in direct financial assistance to more than 500 families throughout Chicagoland and beyond, said Andrew Weishar's brother, Dan Weishar. He is the founder of the Andrew Weishar Foundation (Weish4Ever) and WeishFest.
"Since 2013, WeishFest has welcomed thousands of guests and raised millions of dollars, funds that directly impact the lives of patients navigating their cancer battles," Weishar said. "In sum, WeishFest is a huge purpose-filled party highlighted by our headline artists and truly special atmosphere. It is more than just a music festival; it's a celebration of life."
With the wide selection of artists, WeishFest offers something for everyone looking to have fun and support a great cause.
"WeishFest is a special and unique event for many reasons - at the top of that list is the atmosphere, one filled with such a sense of community driven by making a difference," Weishar said. "Whether a first-time WeishFest-goer, or a day-one supporter, attendees walk out of the venue knowing the impact they made by joining WeishFest."
Among sponsors that help make fest possible is Gerald Auto Group.
"We are continuously humbled by the love and support Gerald Auto shows our mission - one rooted in community and compassion," Weishar said. "With the backing of our partners like Gerald Auto, WeishFest is able to bring a lot of joy and crucial financial support to our beneficiary families facing some of the most difficult moments of their lives."
Donna Lawler of Gerald Auto Group said Gerald is proud to support such a worthwhile cause benefiting local families.
"WeishFest is such a fun event we look forward to being part of each year," said Lawler said. "We are happy to help continue Andrew Weishar's mission of paying it forward and helping families in the community."
Ticket prices include $150 for the Blue Ticket for an all-inclusive experience, including drinks throughout the evening and food available for purchase. For an additional $75, attendees can join four of the national artists for a special preshow "Headliner Experience," Weishar said.
Can't make it to the event? Support WeishFest by bidding on the online Silent Auction, which opens this week at weishfest.com or donate anytime at www.weish4ever.org.
For information on Weishfest, visit www.weishfest.com. For information on Gerald Auto Group, visit www.geraldauto.com.