Woodcock Nature Center is inviting the community to Under the Harvest Moon, its largest fundraiser of the year, when it returns on Friday, Sept. 20 at 7 p.m. Proceeds from this quintessential fall event support Woodcock’s environmental education initiatives which include local outreach, school programs, scholarships and a variety of family and adult education activities aimed at connecting the community with nature. Each fall 200 people turn out for the sell-out event, which annually raises over $60,000 for the nature center.
Held in and around Woodcock’s picturesque candlelit pavilion and pond, a highlight of the evening will be a carefully prepared “dinner by the bite” by local chef Sarah Bouïssou of Ridgefield’s Á Table. A wine selection will be provided by Ridgefield’s Cellar XV and a tasting of craft brews from Nod Hill Brewery will be on hand for beer-loving guests as well as selections from the popular Litchfield Distillery and other non-alcoholic selections.
New this year, music will fill the air thanks to local band Present Company. Another added feature is a handful of VIP ticket experiences available for an additional price, including reserved picnic table seating for six, a personalized charcuterie board courtesy of 109 Cheese & Wine, a hand-picked selection of all the evening’s beverages as well as reserved parking at the highest ticket level.
The event kicks-off early with a virtual silent auction open to everyone beginning Sept. 6, running through Sept. 16. A variety of popular items, including unique Woodcock events, vacation experiences, plus a very popular VIP Woodcock Wreath Festival package, will be on the live auction block during the event only. Guests are encouraged to embrace the “campground chic” attire for the casual, cocktail style fundraiser under the stars.
The Nature Center depends heavily on fundraising events and donations to run its 152-acre nature preserve and unique environmental education programs and looks forward to the community’s support of this fun and relaxed evening of food, music and community.
Major event sponsors include Fairfield County Bank, ASML, Ridgefield Lifestyle, Á Table, Cellar XV, Nod Hill Brewery, Litchfield Distillery, Queen B Coffee, and Boxed Water.
GOOD Morning Wilton is the event’s media sponsor.
Harvest Moon is expected to sell-out. Interested attendees are encouraged to buy tickets early. Tickets are $175 each, and VIP tables start at $1500 and may be purchased on the Woodcock Nature Center website beginning on Aug. 21. Attendees must be age 21-and-over. Sponsorship opportunities are also available. Woodcock is currently accepting live and silent auction item donations from local businesses.