Castle in the Clouds sees strong community support at annual gala

MOULTONBOROUGH ― Castle in the Clouds hosted its annual gala on Sept. 4, to raise funds for restoration projects at the National Historic Landmark Lucknow Estate. Attended by 215 guests, the event was a rousing success, raising over $160,000, setting the record for funds raised at the annual gala. The gala is the largest fundraising event of the year for Castle Preservation Society, the nonprofit organization that manages Castle in the Clouds.

The gala, this year themed “Gala en Blanc,” began with a cocktail party on the Lucknow Mansion lawn, followed by a family-style dinner from Celebrations Catering under the Great Waters Music Festival tent. Entertainment for the event was provided by Deejay Shelly and her band, and guests enjoyed music and dancing throughout the evening. A live auction contributed to a significant portion of the funds raised during the event with attendees bidding on exclusive experiences at Castle in the Clouds and in the Lakes Region. Further funds were raised from event ticket sales and donations from guests and supporters of Castle in the Clouds.

Funds raised during the annual gala are allocated toward the highest-priority restoration project at the Lucknow Estate. The $160,000 raised at this year’s gala will fund the reproduction of the historic entry gates and the rehabilitation of a portion of the stone walls that border the property. According to current projections, work on the gates will begin in early 2027 with the intention of completing the project in time for the opening of the new season in May.

“The success of the gala is the collective success of our gala planning committee, board, staff, and supporters,” said Charles Clark, executive director of Castle in the Clouds. “We always welcome the opportunity to invite guests to the estate and hosting an event like our annual gala attended by so many of our longest and most enthusiastic supporters is always an inspiration. This year, these supporters truly demonstrated great generosity and passion for our mission by supporting our restoration efforts.”

For more information about Castle in the Clouds or to donate to restoration projects at the Lucknow Estate, visit castleintheclouds.org.