Field & Fête at Winterthur

Winterthur marks its 75th anniversary by celebrating its past, present and future. Among the festivities planned for this milestone event is a quintessential country-estate garden party — Field & Fête — inspired by H.F. du Pont’s tradition of grand outdoor entertaining. Join in on May 16 for elegant picnicking, a parade, live music, vintage automobiles, plus guided garden experiences, museum tours and more.

This May garden party will be set in the scenic open fields alongside Azalea Woods on the Winterthur grounds. Pack your own perfectly appointed picnic as practice for tailgating at local steeplechase races. (Note: Winterthur’s annual point-to-point race will not be held in 2026.)

Or purchase your lunch from Winterthur’s onsite caterer. Another option: reserve a 10×10-foot tent on the Azalea Lawn, with dedicated butler service and selections from Winterthur’s seasonal food and drink menu. Selections include lobster bao buns, salmon rillettes, French-inspired charcuterie boxes, wagyu beef sliders, plus sweet signature desserts, a sparkling station and Winterthur-label beer.

The Chapters of Winterthur Parade, along Garden Lane from 1 to 1:30 p.m., is the celebration’s centerpiece, featuring marching bands, vintage Rolls-Royces, 1950s cars, and tractors from Winterthur’s farm, showcasing its history as a dairy farm and working estate. See unique vehicles — a 1926 Model T Pickup, 1931 Buick station wagon, 1959 Ford Thunderbird convertible and more.

For most of the day, swing, jazz, pop and dance music will be performed by the 20-piece Unforgettable Big Band, featuring works spanning the decades — a spirited nod to the garden parties of the 1950s.

Winterthur’s staff will lead garden tours throughout the day. A guided garden walk begins at 11 a.m., highlighting the best of what’s in bloom. Walk among azaleas, rhododendrons, peonies, primroses and much more. At 4 p.m., a special ticketed event, “Secret Spaces Tour,” offers a behind-the-scenes glimpse into hidden spaces in the museum. Additional ticketed events are planned for the day. Check the website for more.

Enjoy a day of beauty and toast to Winterthur’s 75th!

IF YOU GO

When: May 16, 2026. 10 to 4. Rain date, May 17.

Where: 5105 Kennett Pk., Winterthur, DE

What: Picnicking, garden and museum tours, plus additional paid events, including live sketches and bouquet making

Tickets & Info: $29; members, $15. $600 per tent (for 6). Winterthur.org/Field-and-Fete