Chicago-area philanthropic event will support three organizations creating opportunities for children and young people
BARRINGTON HILLS, Ill. (September 17, 2026) – Festival of Children Foundation, in collaboration with The Sanfilippo Foundation, will present “The Magic of Childhood” on October 10 at the Sanfilippo Estate in Barrington Hills, bringing together music, magic and the work of three Chicago-area organizations dedicated to creating opportunities for children and young people.
The evening will unfold throughout the Sanfilippo Estate, beginning with tours of its extraordinary collections. Guests will experience the Sanfilippo Place de la Musique, known for its restored antique music machines, art glass, chandeliers and the world’s largest restored theatre pipe organ, as well as the Perfume Passage Foundation collection, which includes a recreated 1900s Parisian passageway, a restored American drugstore and soda fountain, an Art Deco gallery and René Lalique fountains.
Following the estate experience, guests will gather in the Carousel Pavilion for a plated dinner and an evening of extraordinary entertainment, including a special performance by Kodi Lee, the blind and autistic musician who won Season 14 of America’s Got Talent. The program will also feature performances by world-renowned magicians Luis Carreon, John Guastaferro, Justin Purcell and Paige Thomson, alongside talented dancers from The Chicago Academy for the Arts. The evening will conclude with rides on the historic Eden Palais Carousel.
“The Magic of Childhood” will benefit The Chicago Academy for the Arts, SOUL Harbour Ranch Animal Therapy Program, and Turning Pointe Autism Foundation.
The Chicago Academy for the Arts transforms emerging artists through an educational curriculum and culture that connect intellectual curiosity, critical thinking and creativity, preparing students with skills to lead and collaborate across diverse communities.
SOUL Harbour Ranch Animal Therapy Program brings hope, healing and unconditional love through meaningful connections with trained therapy animals. Its Animal-Assisted Therapy Teams, supported by volunteers and donors, provide comfort and connection throughout the Chicagoland area.
Turning Pointe Autism Foundation creates best-practice learning environments designed to increase independence, improve communication and socially appropriate behaviors, and strengthen educational supports for children and young adults with autism.
For Festival of Children Foundation Founder and Executive Director Sandy Segerstrom Daniels, bringing people together around organizations serving children remains at the heart of the Foundation’s work.
“The Magic of Childhood is about reconnecting with the sense of wonder, possibility and imagination that makes childhood so extraordinary,” said Ms. Segerstrom Daniels. “At the same time, this evening shines a light on organizations doing meaningful work to help children and young people discover their potential, find connection and experience brighter futures. We are thrilled to bring so many supporters together in such a magical setting for an evening that celebrates both childhood and the people who are helping children thrive.”
The evening’s music, magic and performances are designed to evoke the wonder and discovery associated with childhood while highlighting what can happen when children and young people have access to the right opportunities and support.
“The Magic of Childhood” will be held Saturday, October 10, 2026, at the Sanfilippo Estate in Barrington Hills, Illinois. More details at https://festivalofchildren.org/chicago-2026/.
About Festival of Children Foundation
Festival of Children Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization that brings together and coordinates the efforts of charities, companies and individuals who work to improve the lives of children. One hundred percent of the Foundation’s administrative costs are covered by designated funding, allowing donations to go further in direct support of programs and services that improve the lives of children nationwide. For more information, visit https://festivalofchildren.org/.
Contact: Cassady Taylor
Festival of Children Foundation
(714) 438 – 3205
ctaylor@festivalofchildren.org
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