Dunn Gardens marks first 100 years with a slate of events

Photo by Eric Shallit

Centennials are worth celebrating and The Dunn Gardens in North Seattle is in full party mode for its milestone anniversary.

Two special events are planned during July to commemorate the 100 year anniversary of one of Seattle’s hidden treasures.

On July 19, three bands will entertain guests for an afternoon of “Music on the Lawn” at The Dunn Gardens.

A few days later, on July 23, its Great Lawn will become an elegant setting for a benefit celebration of the Olmsted Legacy with a guest speaker from one of the nation’s preeminent cultural institutions.

Tickets are limited for both events and may be reserved online at The Dunn Gardens.

July 19 toe-tapping concert

For the July 19 concert, talented musicians promise a groove that excites the feet. A beverage comes with each ticket sold and hot dogs and ice creams will be available for purchase.

The toe-tapping entertainment will be provided by Waldorf Drummers, Marilyn and the G-Strings (a ukulele rock band), and Swamp Soul (a mixture of French, blues and zydeco). The $20 ticket price includes choice of a beverage. Ice creams and hot dogs will be available for purchase. Children 12 and under are free with an accompanying adult.

Festive Dinner and Fundraiser July 23

The tempo shifts on July 23 as guests distinguished by their efforts and philanthropy in areas of history, horticulture, environment, conservation, parks and service to The Dunn Gardens gather for a festive dinner and endowment fundraiser with keynote speaker Scot Medbury, president of Brooklyn Botanic Garden. The evening includes libations, an exhibit of vintage cars, a showcase of works by glass artist/designer Jesse Kelly, and a “Raise the Paddle” auction for the Olmsted Legacy.

Featured speaker Scot Medbury

For featured speaker Scot Medbury, the appearance at The Dunn Gardens marks a return to the city where he earned two degrees. The University of Washington graduate holds a master’s degree in Forest Resources from the Center of Urban Horticulture and a bachelor’s degree in International Studies from the Henry M. Jackson School of International Studies.

Limited seating for the July 23 endowment dinner is available. Tickets, at $150 each, may be reserved at The Dunn Gardens.

Proceeds from both the Music on the Lawn and Centennial Dinner events benefit The E.G. Dunn Historic Garden Trust, a tax-exempt charitable organization.

Dunnton Abbey Garden Party August 8

In addition to the events during July, the garden’s centennial celebration includes a Dunnton Abbey Garden Party on Saturday, Aug. 8. It will be a grand event in the Edwardian tradition and will include a period fashion show, vintage cars, croquet and flower arranging.  Costumes optional.  An early bird price remains in effect until July 8. Reservations may be made at The Dunn Gardens.

Photo contest

Throughout the year the Dunn Gardens is holding a photo contest. Both amateur and professional photographers are invited to submit entries by Oct. 26. Contest rules and submission guidelines are online.

Tours

The Dunn Gardens are open to the public for docent-led guided tours. The schedule runs through July, and from Sept. 1 through October. Reservations are required.

Dunn Gardens, a member of both the State and the National Register of Historic Places, is supported by memberships, donations and volunteers. The E.B. Dunn Historic Garden Trust was established in 1993 as a nonprofit, tax-exempt organization to conserve Dunn Gardens and other significant gardens in the Pacific Northwest. Its mission is to open the gardens for public enjoyment, education and research.

Dunn Gardens 13533 Northshire Rd NW, Seattle, WA 98177. Map. West of Bitter Lake