Bloedel Reserve on Bainbridge Island is no ordinary destination, so it’s fitting that its annual garden party is also anything but ordinary!
With 23 distinct landscapes to explore, this 140-acre experiential public garden and forest reserve offers a close-to-home escape for Seattleites.
“I think one of the best things about the Reserve is that it feels a world apart – it’s away from the bustle of city life and feels like an escape, even though you needn’t go very far,” notes Becky Walliman, Director of Development & Communications for the Reserve.
“And you don’t need to be an avid gardener or hiker to enjoy Bloedel,” she adds, pointing to the Reserve’s invitation to visitors to “find your nature.” The space is friendly and welcoming, with a variety of pathways leading throughout the different spaces, including a paved loop.
Programs throughout the year are designed to encourage a deeper connection with nature, including:
- Summer Strolls Program, through Aug. 31, with walks designed around locations within the Reserve and built around a theme such as joy, awareness or gratitude.
- Member Sunset Walks, an island evening escape the second Friday of each month, through September.
- Arts programs, including Plein Air Painting and Nature Arts.
The “Unfold Garden Party” – Aug. 8 from 4 to 8 p.m. – is an opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty that is Bloedel Reserve. Marion Brenner photo / courtesy Bloedel Reserve
Time for a party!
Because this must-visit destination is operated as a non-profit, fundraising and community support are essential to both maintaining the expansive grounds and offering a diverse variety of programming.
The “Unfold Garden Party” – Aug. 8 from 4 to 8 p.m. – is an opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty that is Bloedel Reserve. Sip a glass of bubble, then enjoy beautiful views over Puget Sound while tasting exceptional wine and sampling delicious hors d’oeuvres from the best of local restaurants and caterers.
“I don’t think everyone knows Bloedel Reserve is a non-profit, sustained by and for the community,” Walliman says. “The garden party is our primary fundraiser and every dollar raised at the event goes back to help sustain the gardens and forest, so it’s vital to the Reserve all year-round. It’s a wonderful tradition.”
Garden party guests will enjoy entertainment and both a silent and live auction – an opportunity to celebrate the people, landscapes and initiatives at the heart of Bloedel Reserve.
Of course, the prizes up for bid are pretty amazing in their own right, including “World of Wine,” a Walla Walla Weekend Retreat, a custom wine blending experience with winemaker Tom Meadowcroft, dinner amongst the blooms of Bloedel Reserve and more!
Guests will also hear from new CEO Evan Meyer, who’ll share his vision for the Reserve’s next chapter, Walliman says.
Tickets are available online today here. For those attending as a group of eight or 10, a limited number of Trailblazer Tables are also available, with accompanying perks including early admission to the garden, preferred table placement, a host gift for each of your guests, and a tax-deductible donation. Those unable to attend the gala in person are also invited to donate in lieu.
Learn more at bloedelreserve.org
