1st Annual Ball- The Pride Ball - Benefiting 'Life is Work!'
Schedule
Sat Jul 25 2026 at 06:00 pm to 09:00 pm
UTC-05:00Location
Water Tower Place ( Level 3 at FASHIONBAR) | Chicago, IL
About this Event
The Pride Ball
Event Overview:The Pride Ball is a visual celebration of inclusivity—welcoming all identities benefiting Life is Work an organization Empowering Communities, Though supportive services. This formal gala honors self-expression, community, and resilience through an evening of fashion, music, performance, and recognition. Everyone is invited to come as they are and celebrate the power of authenticity in an elevated and meaningful setting.
The evening will include curated runway presentations, live dance performances, and an award ceremony that acknowledges individuals and organizations advancing equality and visibility.
Theme: The Pride Ball – A Celebration of Identity, Opulence, and Progress
Date: Saturday, July 25th, 2026
Time: 6:00 PM – 9:00 PM
Location: Water Tower Place (FashionBar Level 3)
Program Highlights:
- Curated runway presentations featuring emerging and established designers
- Electrifying music by Ariana DJ, Chicago-based transgender DJ, model, and entrepreneur
- Catering and beverage service with light bites and a cash bar
- Live performances, ballroom, voguing, and curated artistic talent
- Award Ceremony at 7:45 PM, recognizing individuals and organizations making an impact in LGBTQIA+ visibility and advocacy
- Formal, fashion-forward attire is required. Guests are expected to arrive in attire appropriate for a red carpet gala
Website: www.theprideball.com
About Life Is Work:Life Is Work is a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering transgender, gender-diverse, and LGBTQIA+ individuals through supportive housing, health resources, education, and career opportunities. Led by Zahara Bassett, President and CEO, Life Is Work partners with FashionBar Chicago to co-host The Pride Ball as a platform for community celebration and social impact.
Historical Significance: The Pride Ball honors the legacy of the LGBTQIA+ rights movement, which began with the Stonewall Riots of 1969. Led by courageous figures such as Marsha P. Johnson and Sylvia Rivera, the movement has paved the way for progress in visibility, advocacy, and equality. The Pride Ball acknowledges this history while centering the current and future voices of transgender and non-binary communities.
Why December? By hosting The Pride Ball in December, we take time to reflect on the milestones of the past year while preparing for the challenges and opportunities ahead. Pride is not confined to a single month—it is a year-round commitment to visibility, celebration, and change.
Media and Contact: For media credentials, sponsorship inquiries, vendor opportunities, or general questions, please contact:
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 312-542-4210
Website: www.fashionbarchicago.com
Social Media:Instagram: @ThePrideBallFacebook: @ThePrideBallHashtags: #ThePrideBall #LGBTQIAOpulence
Please note: This is a formal event. No refunds will be issued. Please plan accordingly.
Where is it happening?
Water Tower Place ( Level 3 at FASHIONBAR), 835 N Michigan Ave, Chicago, United StatesEvent Location & Nearby Stays:
USD 0.00 to USD 375.32
