Chicago Auto Show First Look For Charity 2019

First Look for Charity looks through the years

I can't believe this is going to be my fifth year working with the Chicago Auto Show! Smashmouth was right, the years start coming and they don't stop coming.

A little something for everyone

Anyhow, another year, another dress and another memorable night is right around the corner. The First Look for Charity is Feb. 8 and gives attendees a unique look at all the auto show has to offer while enjoying local treats to benefit local charities. In the past 27 years, the event has raised more than $50 million for more than 20 charities in our backyard. For some of these organizations, #FLFC19 is the only fundraiser they have to keep providing services to people in need in Chicago.

The premise is pretty awesome: get dressed up in your favorite black tie apparel, walk around and look at amazing cars with diminished crowds, eat incredible food in insane quantities, enjoy local beverages and hand-crafted cocktails, raise money for nonprofits that need it. There's also live music and a raffle for two brand-new cars (I'm not eligible but don't cry for me, I'll be just fine).

Earlier this month, I stopped by Acura McGrath, which is one of the sponsoring dealerships, for a preview of this year's food. I'm really excited because the food was much different from years past - think tiny tacos, custom-printed macaroons and expertly assembled old fashioneds.

So if you don't have plans or are looking for a great gift for Valentine's Day, consider buying #FLFC19 tickets and making the trek to the McCormick Center on Feb. 8. It's a memorable evening that has something for everyone and is for a great cause. See you there?