Lightning Bugs & Lemonade is back! We hope you will join us for this educational and fascinating evening.
The evening is sponsored by: Visit Rutherford TN
Come to Oaklands Mansion for a lovely evening of watching the lightning bugs, learning about insects, beetles, & bugs, talking about the grounds & wetlands, listening to music, and shopping for art. You will also find lemonade and snacks will be available to purchase.
The mansion will be open for self-guided after dark tours, and staff members will be available to answer questions.
Admission:
- Adults: $15
- Children (ages 6-17): $10
Special Guests & Event Highlights
Continue reading below to learn more about our special guests and everything this magical evening has to include:
- Devin Weaver will be on the Mansion’s back patio performing live music for the guests’ enjoyment. Devin is a young and developing musician out of Milton, Tennessee, and an upcoming junior at Oakland High School. Growing up on a farm, he listened to bluegrass, old country, and Americana music. As he learned to play, he cut his teeth on artists such as Billy Strings, Tyler Childers, Doc Watson, and Sturgill Simpson to create a mix of bluegrass and Americana, as well as some traditional country. This sound also carries over to his writing.
- Nature Walks with Jane: Jane will be leading an exciting after-dark tour down the woodchip trail, offering a unique look at the local nocturnal ecosystem.
- Connor Moss, Master Gardener: Our very own Master Gardener, Connor Moss, will be leading guests on an insightful guided tour around the beautiful arboretum, sharing his extensive knowledge of the grounds.
- Jennifer Gelvin of A Magickal Garden: Jennifer is an exceptionally talented artist who uses insect taxidermy to create breathtaking works of art. At the event, she will be setting up a special bug viewing area designed to attract local insects, giving guests a unique opportunity to study and see them up close. She will also be displaying native species that have been preserved.
- Filomena Palmer of Filomena’s Flowers: Filomena is a gifted artist who crafts beautiful jewelry and unique items using dried flowers and mushrooms. In addition to showcasing her art, she will be educating guests and speaking about the fascinating history and “language of flowers.”
- Twist & Taste Bakery: Stop by to grab some delicious refreshments! They will have gourmet soft pretzels available for purchase—featuring flavors ranging from savory garlic parmesan to sweet churro—alongside refreshing, fair-style lemonades.
Both Jennifer and Filomena will have their stunning artwork with them to share and display, so make sure to stop by, browse their collections, and take home a piece of nature-inspired art!
