In 2025, we celebrate five years since the University of Chicago entrusted Yerkes Observatory to the Yerkes Future Foundation.
Thanks to your support, this beloved scientific landmark has entered a new era—revived, reimagined, and reopened to the public.
We’re marking this milestone with a fundraiser on Saturday, September 13, to fuel our next five years of transformation and discovery.
This is a one-of-a-kind night under the stars—celebrating where we’ve been and where we’re going. We hope you’ll be part of it.
Yerkes Future Foundation’s 5th Birthday Party will be held on Saturday, September 13th from 6-10pm.
While the event will be held at Yerkes Observatory, there will not be parking onsite. Attendees must park at Williams Bay School (500 West Geneva Street in Williams Bay) and board an accessible trolley that will run a continuous shuttle between the school and observatory during the event. Only ticket holders will be admitted on the trolleys.
Come hungry, curious, and ready to party with purpose!
Guests will enjoy:
• Curated food stations
• Cocktails and hors d’oeuvres
• Music by: Doghouse Roses and Tom Stanfield
• Exclusive access to the historic Observatory
• Interactive games, a raffle, and more!
Whether you’re listening to music in the Great Refractor dome or sipping bubbly in the event tent, this night is all about celebration—and supporting the next chapter of Yerkes.
Tickets are $250 per person. All proceeds support the mission of Yerkes Future Foundation. Capacity is limited—secure your spot early!
No need to bring a birthday gift—we’d love for you to “gift us” through generosity at our fundraising stations. Every donation fuels Yerkes’ future.
Please note: This is a cashless event. Cards and mobile payments only.
Due to the nature of the event, guests must be 21 years of age or older to attend.
Cocktail attire is encouraged.
Cosmically-inspired fashion is welcomed (think starry prints, metallic accents, celestial chic).
Comfortable shoes are a must—you’ll be moving between the Observatory, outdoor areas, and event tent throughout the evening.
A heartfelt thank you to this incredible team for their creativity, energy, and dedication in planning a stellar celebration for Yerkes’ fifth birthday. This event wouldn’t be possible without their hard work and enthusiasm!
• Robin Culbertson, Committee Co-Chair
• Dana Hagenah, Committee Co-Chair
• Sherry Shaffer, Director of Development
• Marianne Bonifacic
• Kate Chadick
• Erin Cullen
• Mallory Conlon
• Emily Irwin
• Ashley Killeen
• Jana Lund
• Laurin Mack
• Janet Nickols
• Kelly Otzen
• Aimee Tanking
If you are interested in sponsorship opportunities, please contact
Director of Development Sherry Shaffer at sshaffer@yerkesobservatory.org or (262) 607-6657.