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The Wave Hill Gardeners’ Party 2025: Celebrating the Art of Gardening

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Honoring Marco Polo Stufano and Sixty Years of Horticultural Splendor

The gardens at Wave Hill set the stage for a beautiful September evening as guests gathered for the 2025 Wave Hill Gardeners’ Party celebrating the art of gardening. The event marked another milestone in Wave Hill’s 60th anniversary year and celebrated the enduring connection between nature, artistry, and community that defines this Bronx landmark.

This year’s celebration honored Marco Polo Stufano, Wave Hill’s founding Director of Horticulture, whose vision helped shape the gardens into a place of inspiration for generations.

Among the guests was Martha Stewart, who captured the evening on her blog, highlighting the “inspiring company and glorious gardens” that made the celebration so memorable. Read her post here.

A Menu Inspired by Season and Heritage

In tribute to Marco Polo Stufano’s Italian heritage and the flavors of late summer, the Great Performances culinary team created a menu that blended elegance with seasonal ingredients.

During the reception, guests enjoyed a selection of butlered hors d’oeuvres that celebrated the garden’s bounty — from Whipped Ricotta Crostini with Caperberry Relish and Roasted Cherry Tomato Tatin with savory onion jam to Tamari Ginger Tuna Poke and Lobster Tart with Basil Crème Fraiche. Lighter bites like Prosciutto and Melon and Crispy Arancini added fresh, classic touches

Dinner began with Raking Leaves, a colorful first course featuring crisp autumn vegetables, carrot–elderflower purée, and apple blossoms. The entrée, Grilled Branzino, paired tomato-braised cauliflower, fingerling potatoes, and Cerignola olives with a sprinkle of edible flowers. The vegetarian option, a Vegan Torta Panzanella, showcased roasted and marinated vegetables with herbed polenta and balsamic glaze.

For dessert, Chef Albert prepared a cake to celebrate Marco’s birthday. The almond sponge layered with berry compote and vanilla frosting was a heartfelt nod to the honoree and a sweet finale for 230 guests

Teamwork, Grace, and a Golden Hour

Hosting dinner outdoors always brings a touch of unpredictability. On this warm and humid September evening, both the Wave Hill and Great Performances teams worked in unison to ensure a seamless experience for guests. Captains Kadijah, Dan, Massiel, and Archie, along with Chef Andrei, led with calm precision and constant communication, keeping everything running smoothly.

“Everything from set-up to the actual event happened so fluidly. And our guests had a beautiful time!”
— Ray Oladapo Johnson, Wave Hill

Just as the silent auction began, the gardens glowed in the soft light of golden hour, casting a warm hue over the evening and setting the perfect tone for celebration.

“Thank you for helping create such a perfect evening! Everything was delicious, and even

 Martha Stewart complimented the food — nothing I can say can top that!”

— Barbara Giordano, Wave Hill

A Shared Love of Place

“I love Wave Hill and all it represents — beautiful grounds, community, and a tranquil spot in this crazy world. I’m so pleased to work with them and assist in creating beautiful events.”
— Victoria Traegler, Event Director, Great Performances

The 2025 Wave Hill Gardeners’ Party reflected the harmony between nature, artistry, and collaboration. From the vibrant gardens to the thoughtful details, it was a celebration of the people and partnerships that make Wave Hill a truly special place — honoring its past, celebrating its present, and looking ahead to the next sixty years of beauty and inspiration.

Photo Credit: Erica Berger

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