CHICAGO, Ill. (Jan. 7, 2014) – The Chicago Fire Foundation, the charitable arm of the Chicago Fire Soccer Club, announced Tuesday that the Foundation will hold its 16th Annual Chicago Fire Season Kickoff Luncheon on Tuesday, March 4 at 11:00 a.m. CT at the Hyatt Regency Chicago (151 E. Wacker Drive, Chicago, IL 60601). Formalized in 1998, the Chicago Fire Foundation is committed to improving the quality of life of youth and communities throughout Chicago by promoting health, wellness, education and the environment.



The annual event, benefitting the Chicago Fire Foundation, offers Fire supporters the first opportunity to meet the 2014 Chicago Fire team prior to Opening Day at Toyota Park (March 23, 2014 against the New York Red Bulls), and raise funds in the name of charity. In addition to interacting with Fire players, coaches and technical staff, the event includes a reception, lunch and silent auction where attendees can bid on autographed Fire and other sports memorabilia, gift certificates and much more. In 2013, the Season Kickoff Luncheon raised more than $70,000 benefiting soccer and education programs for underprivileged Chicagoland youths.



The Fire will also unveil its new 2014 primary kit at the luncheon as part of the second annual MLS Jersey week. All event attendees will have the exclusive opportunity to both see and purchase the kit before its public release.



Tickets are now on sale here or by calling (708) 496-6751. Through January 31, early bird tickets start at $80 a person, with full tables for 10 guests at $750. The first 20 tables purchased for $850 will be seated with a member of the Fire first team or coaching staff.



On Feb. 1 the ticket prices will go up to $90 a person, with full tables for 10 guests at $850. Remaining player tables will be $1,000.