- 5/6/12
-
Garden Faire
Celebrate spring at Fort Hunter’s charming, free event. Amidst a park with historic structures, visitors can browse through plants sales and craft tents, choosing among over thirty vendors. 
The Victorian Dance Ensemble, the performing troupe of the Civil War Dance Foundation, will provide lively 1860s dancing in authentic reproduction clothing accompanied by the Susquehanna Travellers, a four-piece ensemble that specializes in Civil War and Irish music. The ensemble will also play for the cakewalks, where visitors can participate (and win a cake). The handsome teapot cake is generously donated by the Pennsylvania Bakery.Just in time for Mother’s Day are the colorful annuals, herbs, and old-fashioned perennials for sale.
Craft vendors offer garden wares, baskets, accessories, jewelry and more. Another colorful part of the event is the Paxtang Art Association’s show and sale.
Enjoy the many aspects of Victorian life by trying on a corset or cage crinoline and dress up in Victorian-era garb provided by the Victorian Dance Ensemble. (Bring a camera to capture this moment!)
Children can dip into the past by “going fishing,” playing leap frog, painting a fence and making vegetables and fruit prints. At the Tavern’s Cafe visitors can enjoy leisurely dining, in a period room bedecked with flowers. They’ll be served a tasty lunch with overstuffed pretzel sandwiches, fruit and pasta salads and dessert. The hot dog stand at the Barn will offer simple American fare, many thanks to Hummer’s Meats and Martins Chips for generous donations.
See exhibits on the art of tatting, early photographs and Victorian jewelry made from hair, fossilized coal, gold and silver and listen to Victorian songs accompanied by a 1800s parlor guitar.
Knowledgeable gardeners will chat with visitors about their practices amidst the old-fashionedFortHuntervegetable and flower garden. Tours of theFort Hunter Mansionwill be available for a fee.
Admission to Garden Faire is free; a fee is charged for Mansion tours and refreshments. In case of inclement weather, some outdoor activities may be cancelled. Click here for Vendor Application
Built on a bluff overlooking the Susquehanna River, Fort Hunter Mansion and Park has served as a war fort, a hub for frontier commerce, and an exclusive private estate. Now preserved and open to the public, Fort Hunter Mansion and Park invites you to explore Pennsylvania's rich history.
