Celebrating in
Socially-Distant Style
Rock Creek Gala Turned Picnic in the Park in 2020
The 2020 Rock Creek Gala, turned Picnic in the Park, was a huge hit at the storied Carter Barron Amphitheater on October 17. The community came together on a sparkling fall day in a spirit of stewardship and inclusion for the treasured urban oasis of Rock Creek. The innovative socially-distant event raised critical funds to support the people-powered restoration that the Conservancy leads across the Rock Creek watershed and its parklands throughout the year.
Soiree guests talk to Rock Creek Conservancy Executive Director Jeanne Braha
Conservancy Board Vice Chair Jane Paul picking up her Gala to Go!
Some guests joined the soiree at the Carter Barron Amphitheater to enjoy live music, signature seasonal cocktails by The Cocktail Guru, and park-themed family-friendly activities while others got a curbside Gala-to-Go to enjoy at home or in the park. All celebrated over gourmet picnics prepared by Catering by Seasons and styled by Sidra Forman.
Soiree attendees had a chance to celebrate in the historic venue, which is currently closed pending design and restoration. Reminiscent of performances in the past, attendees were entertained by live music from singer-songwriter Ari Jacobson and the Crush Funk Brass band.
Crush Funk Brass band
check our more photos from the event
In an online virtual program, Rock Creek Park Superintendent Julia Washburn expressed her gratitude saying, “We are so grateful for the help of Rock Creek Conservancy and all the stewards that help protect Rock Creek Park, and also the entire watershed. Because everything that goes on outside the boundaries, effects inside the boundaries of the park. We look forward to a long and strong relationship together.”
Rock Creek Park Superintendent Julia Washburn drops by share her thanks
Councilmember Brandon Todd (center) chats with Rock Creek Conservancy Board member Ethan Landis (left) and H. Clifton Grandy (right) at the Carter Barron Amphitheater.
As part of the program, the Conservancy honored Congresswoman Eleanor Holmes Norton and Representative Jamie Raskin. Both are champions of Rock Creek’s environment and provided leadership in the passage of the Great American Outdoors Act, which includes critical support for deferred maintenance for the National Park Service, including projects like the Carter Barron Amphitheater.
“Rock Creek and all its parklands are central to the health of our community and we are grateful to everyone who took part online and in person to support Rock Creek Conservancy,” said Gala co-chair Tanya Mayorkas. “Your generosity will directly support Rock Creek Park, Rock Creek’s water quality, and the future of this incredible natural treasure.”
Tune into the virtual program here to hear the honorees’ full remarks and those of other special guests.
In an effort to support local businesses facing dire financial impacts of the pandemic, Gala Ambassador Ellen Kassoff Gray, the co-owner of Equinox Restaurant, partnered with local restaurants to showcase them in a virtual silent auction with a portion of proceeds from those bids covering restaurants’ costs. Supporters also bid on original art, and culinary and eco-friendly adventures, such as Cornell Lab of Ornithology birding classes, a mixology happy hour from the Founding Farmers Spirits Team, and open climbs at EarthTreks gym.
A perfect day for a Picnic in the Park!
Donors also gave online for a special Fund A Need request between October 10th and 24th to sustain Stream Teams, help visitors Recreate Responsibly, and to be a voice for Rock Creek Park East to stand up for those communities who have historically had less of a voice. Generous support from LINK Strategic Partners, Allison Rumsey, and Shorb Landscaping amplified the Fund A Need appeal by matching gifts of $100 or more.
All of the proceeds from sponsorships, ticket sales, donations, and the silent auction will benefit the Conservancy’s work in Rock Creek and its 33-mile watershed.