The local organization leading restoration and improvement projects at Waveny is now selling a limited number of tickets to attend a popular social gathering at the park.
Waveny Park Conservancy Tailgate Party. Contributed
To be held 4 to 10:30 p.m. on Saturday, Sept. 29 on the lawn behind the main house, the Waveny Park Conservancy’s third annual Tailgate Party will feature live music by Short Bus, prizes for most creatively done vehicles, Conservancy merchandise, firepit and college football on a giant inflatable screen, according to New Canaan’s Arianne Faber Kolb, an event organizer and member of the WPC Board of Directors.
The first 100 cars to register—$500 per vehicle for up to six people for the first row (just 20 available) and $300 per vehicle for the 80 remaining spots (also up to six people), $50-per-person for extra guest tickets—will park in rows, with spaces assigned on a first-come, first-served basis for the party, a fundraiser for the Conservancy. (Tickets are available here, parking spots cannot be purchased the night of the event.)
Waveny Park Conservancy Tailgate Party. Contributed
We caught up with Faber Kolb and put some questions to her on the Tailgate Party. Our exchange follows.
New Canaanite: Though it’s only in its third year, the Tailgate Party generates a lot of buzz in town. What keeps people coming back to it?
Faber Kolb: It’s a unique event that allows people to socialize in a casual setting against the spectacular backdrop of historic Waveny House while at the same time supporting an important cause. It’s been wonderful to see the ever- increasing creativity of the individual tailgate decorations every year- people really go all out transforming their vehicles into impressive mini stage sets.
What should New Canaanites who may be familiar with the park itself but not the Waveny Park Conservancy know about the Tailgate Party?
The tailgate party raises funds for the renovation, restoration, and enhancement of the grounds of Waveny Park, originally designed by the Olmsted Brothers Firm more than 100 years ago. This has now become the signature event for the Conservancy and generates significant funding for various projects. 100% of the ticket revenues will go towards specific projects, most notably the pond restoration.
What are the major projects now on the Conservancy’s agenda?
Right now, the major projects include the renovation of the Cornfields and the restoration of the pond and its surrounding landscape. The successful results of the recent parterre garden renovation and the current clearing of the overgrown area blocking the vista towards the pond will be evident the night of the event. Board members will be on hand to discuss and show guests the improvements.