The Sick Family Lakefront Terrace is all set for Shedd’s party for the planet as the signature summer bash, BLU, Goes Green. Photo: ©Shedd Aquarium/Eva Ho
Last Saturday, Windy City Blogger Collective partnered with the Shedd Aquarium to give away a pair of tickets to this year’s “BLU Goes Green” event. This was my first time attending Shedd BLU and let’s just say it blew my expectations out of the water! I didn’t know much about the event beforehand but essentially it as a party with a purpose for the planet.
Shedd Aquarium trainer holds a Magellanic penguin as VIP guests receive a special animal encounter. Photo: ©Shedd Aquarium/Brenna Hernandez
Immediately when we walked into the cocktail hour, I was blown away by the Shedd’s stunning views of the skyline. While I’ve been to the aquarium before I never realized they had such amazing views. On the patio, we were able to get up-close and personal with a few of the animals like the no-legged green tree pythons and the adorable penguins.
Guests were able to nosh on samplings from more than 20 of Chicago premier restaurants and sip on cocktails at BLU. Photo: ©Shedd Aquarium/Eva Ho
One of my favorite parts of the night was being able to experience the Aquarium after-hours. I loved being able to view the 32,000 animals at the various exhibits such as the Abbott Oceanarium, the Waters of the World galleries and Amphibians, special exhibit while sampling dishes from a variety of Chicago’s premier restaurants, including Hooked on Fish, Baptiste & Bottle, Bistro 730, Cemitas Puebla, Maple & Ash, Shaw’s Crab House and much more.
Shedd Aquarium’s Pacific white-sided dolphins catch some air during a special aquatic presentation for BLU Goes Green. Photo: ©SheddAquarium/BrennaHernandez
Between the sponsors, donors, and attendees the Shedd raised over $400,000 to support conservation, sustainability and education initiatives including the recent Shedd the Straw campaign and launch of the Aquarium Conservation Partnership. It was great seeing so many people donate to a cause they are so passionate about.
Overall, I would have to say it was one of the best events I’ve attended this summer. You bet I’ll be back again next year!
If you want to read more about the event, check out Kit’s blog post and our ticket giveaway winner, Jess, from 26 and Not Counting’s post.
Have you ever been to Shedd BLU? We want to hear about your experience!
Written by: Ashlee O’Neil