County Hosting Fair for Brides-to-Be

Planning a wedding or other special event? Stop by the (free) Bridal and Special Event Fair at Historic Smithville Park on Sunday, Oct. 21, and find out about the county venues at your disposal.

Sponsored by the Burlington County Board of Chosen Freeholders, the fair offers guests an opportunity to learn about the two historic sites available for rent from April through October: the Smithville Mansion courtyard in Eastampton; and the Burlington County Prison Museum grounds in Mount Holly. Both outdoor venues are uniquely suited for entertaining guests. During the fair, visitors will have an opportunity to tour the Smithville site and learn about the county’s rental policies, as well as meet with pre-approved caterers and vendors to help them plan the special event.

“This fair is an excellent way for (us) to showcase some of the ways Burlington County residents can utilize our beautiful county parks,” said Freeholder Director Bruce Garganio.

Located off Smithville Road in Eastampton, the Historic Smithville Mansion courtyard is surrounded by stone and brick walls that encompass a formal parterre garden, grape arbor and lawn areas. A 40-by-80-foot event tent that can accommodate up to 160 people, lighting, electric, and accessible bathrooms are included in the rental. For an additional fee, guided guest tours of the 1840 mansion may be arranged in advance.

Located on High Street in Mount Holly, the Prison Museum is a national historic landmark designed by renowned architect Robert Mills. The spacious courtyard area behind the 1811 building is available for rent and accessible bathrooms are included. Tents may also be rented for use on the reserved day. For an additional fee, guided guest tours of the museum may be arranged in advance.

The fair will go from noon to 3 p.m. Admission and parking are free.

For more information about the Bridal and Special Event Fair, call the Division of Parks at 609-265-5858, or visit www.SmithvilleMansion.org. (Businesses that provide wedding services and are interested in participating in the fair may visit www.co.burlington.nj.us/parks).

Information provided by the Burlington County Office of Public Information