On Sunday, September 12, the C&O Canal Trust hosted Picnic in the Park to celebrate and raise funds for the C&O Canal National Historical Park’s 50th anniversary. The event was held at Carderock Pavilion where over a dozen picnic tables were beautifully decorated with photos of well-known Park landmarks and bouquets of locally-grown flowers.
Guests filtered into the Pavilion, enjoying libations, individually packaged gourmet picnic meals from Corcoran Caterers, and live bluegrass music from the Hillbilly Gypsies. During the event,, the Trust screened the first viewing of a short video project commemorating the 50 years of the Park. The video highlights stories from Park Superintendent Tina Cappetta, Trust leadership, and our partners about what makes our Park so special, and how we can work together to ensure it remains beautiful, safe, and welcoming into the future. Stay tuned for the official release of the video later this fall!
Proceeds from the event provide vital support for the preservation and programs of the C&O Canal NHP, which interpret the 19th-century transportation canal from Washington, DC, to Cumberland, Maryland, and its associated scenic, natural, and cultural resources. The Park also provides visitors with a wealth of opportunities for education and outdoor recreation along its 184.5 miles and 20,000 acres. At 50 years old, the C&O Canal NHP is the eighth most visited park in the National Park system, with nearly 5 million visitors each year. In total, the event raised over $150,000. Thanks to all the volunteers, attendees, and sponsors for making this event an incredible success. Special thanks to Gay Barclay, Georgia Nassikas, Generation Media, and D&V Creative, as well as our generous sponsors.
