The Chicago Fire Foundation, the charitable arm of Chicago Fire FC, will host its 2026 Annual Season Kickoff Luncheon, presented by Magellan Corporation, which has sold out in advance for the first time.
WHAT:
The 2026 Annual Season Kickoff Luncheon will give Fire partners and fans the first opportunity to meet members of the 2026 First Team and Coaching Staff. This luncheon saw its first-ever advance sellout – however, fans can still support the Foundation by entering the raffle for a VIP Travel Experience with the First Team, bidding on the silent auction, or making a donation at https://e.givesmart.com/events/MBj/.
The luncheon officially kicks off the 2026 MLS regular season, ahead of the Club’s season opener on Saturday, Feb. 21 on the road against the Houston Dynamo. All proceeds from the luncheon will benefit the Chicago Fire Foundation’s P.L.A.Y.S. (Participate, Learn, Achieve, Youth, Soccer) Program Presented by Meridian, designed to enhance the academic performance and development of key social and emotional skills of elementary students through a sports-based curriculum, and this year will serve more than 1,500 youth across 70 Chicago Public Schools.
WHEN:
Tuesday, February 17, 2026
11:00am CT - Welcome Reception
12:00pm CT - Programming / Lunch
WHERE:
Swissôtel Chicago
323 E Wacker Dr., Chicago, IL 60601
WHO:
Chicago Fire Foundation and Club execs, as well as Head Coach Gregg Berhalter and select players from the 2026 First Team including Chicagoland natives Chris Brady (English) and Chris Mueller (English and Spanish).