Date and Time
Saturday Jan 30, 2027
6:00 PM - 11:00 PM CST
Location
Elara Convention Center
Located in Holiday Inn - Crystal Lake
800 S Illinois Route 31
Crystal Lake, IL 60014
Fees/Admission
$125 per person
$1000 for table of 10
$880 for table of 8
Website
Contact Information
Molly Ostap
Send Email
Description
Join us for The Grand Heist, the McHenry Area Chamber of Commerce's 2027 Annual Gala, where elegance meets intrigue and a little mischief. An evening of glittering jewels, mysterious guests, and unexpected surprises awaits!
Dress for the event… or dress for the heist.
You've been invited to an exclusive showing of rare and extraordinary jewels—but not everyone on the guest list may be who they appear to be.
Come in cocktail or evening attire as a guest of the exclusive jewelry showing, or embrace the theme and arrive as someone who may have an ulterior motive. Think sophisticated spy, master thief, mysterious socialite, undercover agent, cat burglar, clever disguise, or your own interpretation of the perfect heist look.
Costumes are completely optional. Whether you arrive dressed to admire the jewels or dressed to steal them, you'll fit right in. No role-playing or costume is required to enjoy the evening.
The Grand Heist is where elegance meets a high-stakes caper, so have fun with it!
Doors open at 6 p.m. The gala includes an open bar, appetizers, a four-course dinner, dancing, a raffle, silent auction, and liquor pull.
Menu:
- Classic Caesar with romaine, Parmesan, and croutons
- Creamy roasted tomato basil soup
- Duet of Red Wine Braised Boneless Short Rib (Slow-braised with red wine, shallots, and rosemary, finished with a rich reduction) and Parmesan-Herb Crusted Chicken with White Wine Jus (Chicken breast coated in Parmesan, parsley, and Italian herbs, finished with a light garlic and white wine sauce)
- Baby red mashed potatoes and roasted asparagus
- New York cheesecake with salted caramel sauce
- Red and white wine will be served with dinner
Want to donate a silent auction item? Click here for more information.
During the evening, we will also present the Chamber's highest distinction, the Frank E. Low Award (FELA), recognizing extraordinary community service and leadership. If you have someone you would like to nominate for the award, click here for more info.
Planning to stay the night? A block of rooms will be reserved for those wanting to spend the night at the Holiday Inn. The rate is $104 (plus 11% tax.) Click here to make your reservations. Reservations must be made in advance order to receive discount.


