Frequently Asked Questions
What is September Splendor?
September Splendor is a Cocktail Party and Silent Auction fundraiser to benefit historic Washington Park in Albany, New York, presented by the Washington Park Conservancy. Proceeds from September Splendor help finance the Conservancy’s investments in Washington Park.
This year’s event will take place on Saturday, September 24 from 7:00-9:00pm at the Lake House in Washington Park.
What happens during the event?
September Splendor is an informal event (no speeches). You’ll receive a friendly welcome, whether this is your first time or you’re a long-term Conservancy supporter. You’ll meet new neighbors and other folks of all ages who love and use Washington Park and want to help it thrive.
You’ll enjoy a yummy buffet and passed hors d’oeuvres from BMT Catering and an open wine and cider bar thanks to Capital Wine & Spirits and Nine Pin Cidery. Musician Zach Cohen provides a relaxing acoustic background to the event. And you’ll get to bid on the great offerings in our Silent Auction, the centerpiece of September Splendor. The hallmark of the auction is the unique array of plants, shrubs, trees and other botanicals. In addition to these offerings, many businesses and individuals in the Capital Region donate a wide variety of merchandise, gift certificates, professional services, and experiences to the Auction.
6:15pm: Event opens for Honorary Committee guests and sponsors
7:00pm: General admission guests arrive
8:45pm: Silent Auction closes
9:00pm: Food service ends and bar closes
What's the dress code?
September Splendor is festive but informal. Most guests wear attire suitable for a garden party, summer weekend wear, or business casual. It’s most important to be comfortable and dress for the weather and the conditions. (The Lake House is not air conditioned, and seating is limited.)
How much are tickets?
Honorary Committee tickets range from $150-$500 per person and include an early preview beginning at 6:15pm.
General Admission tickets purchased in advance are $100 ($75 for under age 40)
General Admission tickets purchased at the door are ($125 ($100 under age 40)
How do I buy tickets?
Buy tickets ONLINE at Eventbrite (link at right)
Buy tickets by MAIL: Download form (link at right) and mail with payment (check or credit card)
Can I bid on Silent Auction items in advance?
No, the Silent Auction for September Splendor is conducted in person, during the event itself.
I'd like visibility for my business. How can I get involved?
Sponsoring September Splendor is a great way to promote your business and show your appreciation for historic Washington Park!
Or consider making a tax-deductible donation of gift certificates, merchandise, services or a special experience to our Silent Auction.
Use the links at right to download Sponsorship or Silent Auction information.
What are the event's Covid-19 guidelines and protocols?
As required by our Special Event Permit from the City of Albany, September Splendor will be in compliance with all standing Executive and Emergency Covid-19 orders issued by Governor Hochul; and any applicable local, federal, county, or state mandate. This includes collecting attendee information for contact tracing purposes, and we must and keep that information for at least three weeks after the conclusion of the event for possible distribution to the Albany County Health Department. Accordingly, we will collect and confirm names, addresses, telephone numbers and emails from all attendees during the check-in process.
Where can I park?
There is limited parking on roads inside Washington Park, and parking can be found on the streets bordering and near the park.
What are the event's accommodations for disabilities?
Please contact us by email at [email protected] to discuss any special needs.
I never received my ticket(s) for September Splendor!
No physical tickets will be issued for this event. You will be checked in from our RSVP list at the door.
Something's come up and I can't attend after all. Can I get a refund?
Sorry, tickets for September Splendor are not refundable, but they are transferable. If you give your tickets to someone else, please let us know so we can change the RSVP list. As required by our Covid-19 protocols, we will collect names, addresses, telephone numbers and emails from all guests at check-in.
If I bid successfully at the Silent Auction, when do I get my stuff?
The Silent Auction closes at 8:45pm. We will process the winning bids immediately and take payments as quickly as possible. You are urged to take your Auction items with you when you leave the event Saturday evening. Any items that cannot be taken at the end of the evening will be kept securely overnight in the Lake House but MUST be picked up the following morning no later than 11am.
What is the Washington Park Conservancy?
The Washington Park Conservancy is an all-volunteer, 501c3 not-for-profit organization (Tax ID #14-1678316), founded in 1985 to preserve, protect, and promote historic Washington Park in Albany, New York. The Conservancy works with the City of Albany to help guide the restoration and maintenance of the Park.
Who do I contact for more information?
If you have more questions about September Splendor, we’ll respond most quickly if you email us at [email protected]. You can also leave a voice mail at 518-992-6152
