Spring Fundraiser

On Thursday, May 28, more than 252 guests gathered at Lefkes Estiatorio for Tenafly Nature Center’s annual Spring Gala, An Evening in Wonderland.

Blessed with beautiful weather and a perfect spring evening, supporters, community partners, and friends of TNC came together to celebrate nature, community, and conservation while raising critical funds to support the Tenafly Nature Center’s mission.

From the moment guests arrived, there was something new to discover around every corner. Visitors explored the Curiosity Grove, where they could purchase raffle tickets, make donations, and support TNC through unique experiences and activities. Guests shopped at the Curiously Customizable Color Bar® by Kendra Scott and the Brooklyn Teacup Atelier, both of which generously donated a portion of their sales to TNC.

The evening featured live owl and rabbit encounters, painted prophecies by Mooneca, and a stunning live painting by Art by Arabella, whose completed Evening in Wonderland-inspired artwork was auctioned during the event. Guests also enjoyed music, dancing, signature cocktails, delicious food and desserts, favors from the Hive & Honey Mobile Bar Experience, and a special dance performance featuring beloved Wonderland characters.

A highlight of the evening was the presentation of TNC’s annual awards. The Founders Award for Conservation was presented to Elizabeth and Gaurav Seth in recognition of their longstanding generosity and commitment to environmental stewardship. The Community Partner Award was presented to Samsung Electronics America for its meaningful partnership and support of conservation and community engagement initiatives.

Throughout the evening, Executive Director Debora Davidson reflected on TNC’s impact over the past year, including welcoming more than 50,000 visitors, providing environmental education to thousands of children and families, contributing over 4,500 volunteer stewardship hours, and advancing the Accessible Trail Project.

Funds raised from the gala directly support the annual operations of the Tenafly Nature Center’s nearly 400 acres of preserved habitat, educational programs, trail maintenance, and community initiatives.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to every guest, sponsor, donor, volunteer, staff member, Board member, and gala committee member who helped make this magical evening possible.

Together, we celebrated 65 years of stewardship while investing in a future where nature, education, and community continue to thrive.