In case you’re looking for something to do this weekend, Allerton Park in Monticello will be hosting a Garden Party fundraiser this coming Friday, May 20th, at 5:30 p.m. All of the proceeds from the evening will go towards the renovation of Allerton’s Bulb Garden. Plus it includes dinner in the meadow of Allerton. What’s not to love?
For more info, check out Allerton’s press release:
Monticello – Allerton Park & Retreat Center will host its third annual Garden Party fundraiser on Friday, May 20, 2016, 5:30 p.m. at Allerton, 515 Old Timber Road, Monticello. All proceeds will go towards the Bulb Garden renovation, and tickets can be purchased online at Allerton.illinois.edu or by calling 217-333-3287.
The evening will start in the Peony Garden with drinks, hors d’oeuvres, and music from Kevin Hart and the Vibe Tribe. New this year, guests will be able to observe artists at work, drawing and painting the peonies in original artwork that will be up for bid that night. Attendees will then move to the Meadow for dinner and to hear from special guest speakers, DiAnne and Terry Hatch.
“DiAnne and Terry have a long history with Allerton – both visiting since they were very young, and today bringing their grandkids out to enjoy the Park,” said Associate Director Derek Peterson. “They recently started an endowment to help fund our youth nature programs, and we wanted to share their story and the impact their gift will have with other Allerton supporters.”
Growing up less than 10 miles from Allerton, DiAnne began visiting the Park when it was gifted to the University in 1946.
“Our drives through the magnificent tree-lined lanes began in that year, and continue to punctuate our lives with the loveliness and grandeur of this special place,” DiAnne recalls. “My husband Terry, likewise, has many memories of weekend drives out to Allerton with his family and stops at the dairy in Monticello.”
The Hatchs are interested in increasing nature-centered programs and opportunities for children, and were particularly intrigued by the possibility of a Children’s Garden.
“Our Master Plan does identify a site for a Children’s Garden in the future Artist Village area, near where the current Visitor Center complex sits,” explained Peterson. “There are a number of preceding projects and research that need to be done before moving forward with that, but it’s definitely something we’re excited about and looking into.”
This year, the Hatch’s endowment will help support the Second Annual Family Campout and Exploration, to be held September 24-25. Last year’s inaugural sold-out event provided 140 children and parents with a no-hassle camping adventure, and the opportunity to experience native wildlife up-close and in-hand. Increased support for the event will mean Allerton staff can keep costs low for participating families, while adding additional recreational and educational opportunities for them to experience the wonders of nature.
Tickets for the Garden Party can be purchased by calling 217-333-3287 or visiting Allerton’s website Allerton.illinois.edu.