NIU Black Alumni Council Reunion Picnic
Sunday, Sept. 6
You are invited to the 2026 Black Alumni Council picnic, which will take place at noon on Sunday, Sept. 6, in Grove 2 at the Dan Ryan Woods forest preserve in Chicago, Illinois.
The Black Alumni Council hosts this free picnic annually to encourage community between Black NIU alumni. There is no cost to attend the picnic, but we ask that you RSVP so we know who is attending.
Bring your favorite dishes and drinks to pass and don't forget to say hi to your NIU Alumni Association representative, because they might even have something sweet for your dessert!
Vendor Village
A limited number of vendors will be able to participate during the 2026 picnic. A maximum of 10 vendors of varying types will be able to sell their goods in Grove 2. Vendor Applications are accepted on a rolling basis. Once the event reaches capacity, vendor registration will close. Vendor spaces will be limited to the size of a food/beverage truck or a 10x10 footprint, depending on the services offered.
Requirements:
• Vendor fees of $150 plus $15 per special-use item. Click here to download a list of special-use items and prohibited activities.
• Certificate of Insurance with the NIU Foundation named as additionally insured and any applicable business licenses (e.g. food permits). To be provided after receipt of payment.
• Completed Vendor Application Form and Signed Liability Waiver (this form will be available to download soon). To be provided after receipt of payment.
• If you are interested in participating, please complete this questionnaire and pay the vendor fee by July 20.
• If these requirements are NOT met, you are forbidden to sell goods or provide services on the site, as it is a violation of the strict Forest Preserve guidelines.
Vendor fees must be paid by July 20, using the button below, to begin the application process. All payments are final as this is a rain-or-shine event. Fees will only be reimbursed if applicants are not selected. A member of our team will follow up with next steps upon receipt of payment.
Sunday Picnic Details
There is no cost to attend the picnic, but we do ask that you RSVP.
Don't forget to visit the vendors in our Vendor Village at the picnic!