Celebrate River Innovation and Leadership at the 2026 Chicago-Calumet River Summit

A limited number of tickets are still available for Friends of the Chicago River’s 2026 Chicago-Calumet River Summit: In Defense of Biodiversity, taking place January 30, and now is the time to secure your spot. At the Summit, we will also celebrate and announce the full slate of 2025 Chicago River Blue Award winners, honoring the people, projects, and partnerships making intentional choices to protect and restore the Chicago-Calumet River system and its surrounding watersheds.

This year’s award-winning projects reflect the creativity and collaboration shaping the river system’s future. Some of the honorees include a Shedd Aquarium and Illinois Department of Natural Resources study demonstrating the critical role of natural riparian shorelines and eco-engineering strategies in improving aquatic habitat; a large-scale prairie and habitat restoration effort in Lockport and Crest Hill led by the Forest Preserve District of Will County; and new river access and educational opportunities at River Park spearheaded by the Chicago Park District. Together, these projects highlight how science, land stewardship, and public engagement can drive lasting ecological change.

Tickets and sponsorships are limited, and space is filling quickly. Join us on January 30 to celebrate innovation, learn from leaders, and strengthen the collective work restoring our river system for all people, water, and wildlife. Get your tickets today.