Niagara-on-the-Lake, ON — On Friday, September 5, 2025, the banks of the Niagara River will come alive with vintage glamour as the Niagara Pumphouse Arts Centre hosts its signature fundraising event — Moonlight Picnic. This year’s soirée embraces the Great Gatsby Garden Party theme, offering guests an evening steeped in 1920s elegance, live music, and community spirit.
As the sun sets and the string lights glow, the captivating rhythms of the Niagara Rhythm Section will fill the air. Guests, invited to dress in their finest flapper attire, wingtips, and vintage finery, will gather at elegantly set tables along the water’s edge, creating a scene straight from the pages of The Great Gatsby. And when the music starts, the outdoor dance floor will be open all night for guests to groove, mingle, and make memories under the stars.
Participants are invited to bring their own picnic dinner, along with table décor, fine dishes, and glassware, for a personalized dining experience. Tables seat up to six guests for $210, while those seeking a social twist can reserve spots at the Mixed Table Seating option for $40 per seat. A panel of judges will select the most creatively decorated table, with the winning group receiving a special gift pack, courtesy of Strewn Winery.
Guests can complement their meals with a curated wine selection from Strewn Winery, available for pre-purchase or on-site, along with local beer and cider.
In addition to dining under the stars, the evening features a silent auction showcasing unique and valuable items donated by generous community members and local businesses. All proceeds from the event support Niagara Pumphouse Arts Centre’s programs that make Art Accessible to All.
“The Moonlight Picnic is one of our favourite nights of the year,” said Rima Boles, Niagara Pumphouse Arts Centre Director. “More than a fundraiser, it’s a magical evening where friends & family gather, the community comes together, and the river becomes the backdrop to unforgettable moments. We can’t wait to welcome everyone to dance, dine, and celebrate with us.”
The Moonlight Picnic takes place on Friday, September 5, 2025, from 6:00 to 10:00 p.m. at the Niagara Pumphouse Arts Centre, 247 Ricardo Street, Niagara-on-the-Lake. For more information or to reserve a spot, visit niagarapumphouse.ca/events, call 905-468-5455, or email office@niagarapumphouse.ca.