May 16, 2026 | 10:00 am–4:00 pm
Pack your prettiest picnic and step into the timeless charm of a country-estate garden party as Winterthur marks its 75th anniversary with live music, vintage automobiles, a parade, and guided garden experiences.
Inspired by the H. F. du Pont family’s love of entertaining outdoors, defined by relaxed elegance, our May garden party takes place amid the scenic open fields alongside Azalea Woods.
Enjoy your own beautifully packed picnic or indulge in seasonal offerings from our curated mobile vendors. Then settle in for a joyful day soundtracked by The Unforgettable Big Band performing favorites from across the decades.
Adding to the charm, an old-school procession of vintage Rolls-Royces, 1950s automobiles, Winterthur farm tractors, marching bands, and bagpipers will parade through the garden in a spirited nod to Winterthur’s heritage.
Come celebrate the season—and 75 years of Winterthur—with a gathering that blends nostalgia, style, and the simple magic of celebrating outdoors. Rain date Sunday, May 17. $29; $15 for Members.
Private Picnic Tent
Reserve a 10×10 high-peak tent on Azalea Lawn for an exclusive private picnic experience for up to six guests. Perfectly situated, these tents place you right in the center of the music and merriment. Includes 6 Field & Fête admission wristbands, a beautifully appointed 48″ round table with linen, flowers, six chairs, and dedicated butler service for seamless food and beverage ordering from a curated menu. Food and beverage are not included. Guests may bring their own picnic or indulge in offerings from select on-site vendors. $600 per tent | Additional wristbands: $75 each. Purchase now.
Secret Spaces Tour
4:00–6:00 pm | A rare, behind-the-scenes glimpse into hidden museum spaces and protected places, followed by a sparkling toast overlooking the Reflecting Pool. Includes hidden doors and access points, the former servants’ spaces, collections study and storage areas for glass, ceramics, curtains, and needlework, plus the rooms where flowers are brought in, prepared, and arranged before being displayed in the house. $110; $100 for Members. Ticket includes Field & Fête event on Saturday, May 16.* Please check in at the Visitor Center by 3:30 pm. Limited capacity. Reservations required. Register now.
Live Music
11:00 am–3:00 pm | Enjoy the toe-tapping rhythms and timeless melodies, soundtracked by the 20-piece Unforgettable Big Band as they perform favorites from across the decades.
Guided Garden Walks
11:00 am–12:00 pm | Join a guided garden walk beneath the spring canopy. You’ll see the best of what’s in bloom on this special May day and bask in the natural beauty that has captivated visitors for generations. Included with admission.
House Tours
Explore American History through the spaces, stories, and objects that shaped the nation in our self-paced 45-minute introductory tour, An American Legacy. Or take Architecture of Independence, an upgraded, guided tour exploring the founding of our nation through the stories preserved within the architecture of the original thirteen colonies. Self-guided tour is included with admission and first-come, first-served. Guided tours by reservation only.
Library Open House
11:00 am–2:00 pm | See stylish 1950s catalogues and photos from our archives and special collections that capture the midcentury vibes. Included with admission.
Information for Members
On May 16, Winterthur will host Field & Fête, commemorating the museum’s opening in 1951 and honoring Winterthur’s rich history and vibrant present. We hope you’ll join us. When you purchase a ticket for Field & Fête, you help support the museum, garden, and library and ensure that future generations can enjoy and celebrate Winterthur well beyond its 75th year.
Member Access (For All Members Not Attending Field & Fête)
Members who are not attending the event but wish to take advantage of their complimentary access to walk the grounds and take a house tour are welcome do so. Kindly enter through Gate 2— located on Route 52, just south of Winterthur’s main gate. Plan for a ten-minute walk to the museum.
During Field & Fête, some areas of the estate will be restricted for non–ticket-holding visitors, including Members.
Free Member-Exclusive Guided Garden Walk
Enhance your visit* with a guided garden walk, offered every hour, on the hour, from the Gate 2 location.
Members free; registration required. Space limited; choose your time slot. Comfortable walking shoes, filled water bottles, sunscreen, and bug spray are recommended. Walk may include uneven ground over dirt and grass, steps, as well as paved paths.
Rain date for both event and guided garden walk is Sunday, May 17.
*Field & Fête ticket not required. Members who wish to attend the Field & Fête and take a guided walk may do so by registering for both events. Note that no transportation is provided from event site to Gate 2 area.