A new collaboration brings light and hope for children with critical illnesses
CHICAGO — Make-A-Wish Illinois and Water Lantern Festival are thrilled to announce a dynamic partnership for 2025. This collaboration unites their shared missions of hope, community, and transformation to support children battling critical illnesses across Illinois. As part of this partnership, Make-A-Wish Illinois will serve as the exclusive charity for all Water Lantern Festival events in the state.
At Water Lantern Festival events in Illinois, attendees will have the opportunity to learn about the life-changing impact of wishes through themed displays and dedications. This includes Lantern Stories, which spotlight local wish families and illustrate the profound impact of granted wishes. Additionally, Make-A-Wish Illinois will receive 20 percent of proceeds from co-branded merchandise sold at events, as well as any on-site donations and contributions made during ticket purchases.
Join us at the following 2025 events to be part of this powerful experience:
• May 17, 2025 – Lake Zurich at Paulus Park from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m.
• July 19, 2025 – Chicago at Humboldt (Alexander von) Park from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m.
“We are thrilled to bring our mission to Water Lantern Festival attendees across the state,” said Laurie Honza, VP of Marketing for Make-A-Wish Illinois. “These festivals provide a unique platform to celebrate hope and transform the lives of children eagerly awaiting their wishes.”
Seth Hewett, Vice President of Sales and Operations for Water Lantern Festival, added, "Partnering with Make-A-Wish Illinois is an honor. This collaboration embodies our shared commitment to fostering community spirit and creating unforgettable experiences that light up lives."
Make-A-Wish creates life-changing wishes for children battling critical illnesses. This year, Make-A-Wish Illinois expects to grant more than 700 wishes across the state. Research shows children who have wishes granted can build the physical and emotional strength they need to fight their illness. Wishes unite families through life-changing experiences that help them cope and grow stronger and give entire communities the opportunity to rally around them in moments of unforgettable joy.
About Make-A-Wish
Since being founded locally in 1985, Make-A-Wish Illinois has granted more than 18,000 wishes and continues to share the power of a wish® with children in all areas of the state with community and volunteer support. For more information or to get involved, visit wish.org/Illinois.
About Water Lantern Festival
The Water Lantern Festival is a beloved community event that unites residents from across Illinois and the World for an enchanting evening of illuminated lanterns and inspiring stories. It’s a night where magic and community spirit come together to create unforgettable memories.