Guests are warmly welcomed to delve into Omaha’s heritage and support the efforts of Joslyn Castle & Gardens during the forthcoming Summer Fête. As stewards of the revered 5.75-acre estate, Joslyn Castle & Gardens invites your participation in one of the city’s most beloved summer traditions.
Dating back to 1897, the Summer Fête mirrors the inaugural estate showcase hosted by George and Sarah Joslyn. An annual event since 2017, the Fête features entertainment akin to what their guests enjoyed, including tarot card readings, a brass band, and dinner in the gardens.
“Attendees get to see what makes this Castle the prized jewel of Midtown,” Amy Richardson, Executive Director of Joslyn Castle & Gardens, said. “Every year, it’s a chance to show people what our major endeavors are, which encourages them to donate and keep our programming alive.”
The evening will commence with a cocktail reception, allowing guests to explore the historic property before enjoying pre-dinner music and lawn games. The festivities will culminate with a delightful dinner under the stars in an open-air tent within the gardens.
PRESERVATION AND COMMUNITY SUPPORT
With no endowment, the Castle must maintain a yearly budget of $1.3 million to cater to over 40,000 visitors, making events like the Summer Fête essential for the estate’s survival. In 2023, more than 200 guests were in attendance, joining together to raise over $210,000.
At this year’s Fête, slated for Saturday, August 17, guests can bid in a silent auction, play a ring toss for wine, mingle under the stars, and much more. With a goal of raising $225,000, attendees will be supporting Joslyn Castle with every donation and ticket purchase.
Of course, we can’t overlook the fashion! Embracing the classic theme, guests are encouraged to don traditional garden party attire. Picture light hues, lawn dresses, straw hats, and suspenders—an ode to the elegance of bygone eras.
CELEBRATING WITH PURPOSE
“The Fête is for honoring our history while looking forward,” Kelli Bello, Director of Development and Outreach, said. “[Sarah Joslyn] left this house with a mandate that it wouldn’t be a private family home or business, but rather, serve a greater civic purpose.”
Joslyn Castle’s programming reflects the Joslyns’ interest in music, art, theater, literature, and more. The Castle also offers regularly scheduled public tours, a free public green space, and rental opportunities for private and business events.
A SPECIAL OCCASION
This year’s Honorary Chairs, Todd and Sandy Lemke, share a deeply personal connection with the Castle. In 1994, they celebrated their wedding reception at Joslyn Castle & Gardens. They commemorate their 30th wedding anniversary this year by returning to this cherished site. Their special history with the property extends even further, having also celebrated their 15th anniversary at the Castle.
These romantic milestones inspire their commitment to maintaining the property for public enjoyment, especially as a venue for momentous occasions. Holding the Castle near to their hearts, the Lemkes warmly invite you to join them for this unforgettable gathering in the heart of Midtown.
Reserve a seat or table today to support the Castle’s initiatives and experience this timeless tradition. Following in the footsteps of the Joslyns, it’s a time to honor the past, celebrate the present, and secure the future of Joslyn Castle & Gardens for generations to come.
Event tickets can be purchased here. For more information, visit joslyncastle.com.
