Spring Fundraiser

On Saturday, September 14th, TNC hosted Cocktail’s Under the Stars, an elegant night in support of its mission and work.

The Main Pavilion and Campfire Ring areas provided a natural, engaging and elevated backdrop for guests to connect and celebrate. “What a fun and memorable evening,” said TNC Board President, Peter Emmi.

The vibes were upbeat on a crisp night, with guests in hiker chic attire laughing, talking, and dancing as they sipped a varied array of wines, local specialty ciders, craft beers, and seltzers, and noshed from a resplendent buffet of delectable bites from Tenafly’s La Promenade. The DJ read the crowd perfectly, prompting partygoers to display their best moves on the tented dance floor. Those who fancied a quieter time hung out at the picnic tables dotting the area or strolled down the twinkling path to the campfire for casual conversation.

There was even childcare in the form of a special kids party at the Visitors Center. While their grown-ups mingled, the kids enjoyed pizza, fun activities, live animals and s’mores by a campfire.

Executive Director, Debora Davidson, was excited to showcase the newly completed Campfire Ring Pavilion, which addresses a critical need at TNC, providing additional shelter and space for programs. She said, “having weather-protected teaching spaces is crucial to our program success and enables us to meet the needs of all who love to learn at TNC.” The project was made possible by funds from the Borough of Tenafly, private donations and grants from Veolia, Investors Foundation and Citizens Philanthropic Foundation. She also called attention to TNC’s efforts to make the preserve more accessible for all visitors, describing the Accessible Trail Project, which is in the initial fundraising and planning phase.

Other highlights included a 50/50 and prize raffle, a sneak peek from TNC’s new Animal Ambassadors, and a wine bottle grab bag to further support the nature center. TNC is grateful to all the guests, sponsors, vendors, Board, staff and volunteers who made Cocktails Under the Stars a truly magical evening for all. We can’t wait to do it again next year!