Cocktails and Conversations at Afton Villa Gardens

Join us for an unforgettable afternoon at Afton Villa Gardens! Enjoy a garden party like no other, complete with curated cocktails, gourmet hors d'oeuvres, and captivating stories of this historic estate. As you stroll through four stunning garden locations, indulge in specialty drinks and delectable bites, all while learning the secrets behind Afton Villa’s breathtaking beauty from St. Francisville historians and family members.

Sip, savor, and support a great cause. Proceeds from this event will directly benefit The Gayle and Tom Benson Ochsner Children's Hospital's new, state-of-the-art facility, transforming pediatric care for children and families across Louisiana. Your participation helps make this extraordinary new hospital a reality!

Don't miss out on the magic of Afton Villa’s gardens! Keep scrolling to get a sneak peek at the beautiful gardens, exclusive menu offerings, and more details about this unforgettable afternoon. You’ll want to see what’s in store for each part of the tour and how your participation helps support a truly transformational cause!

The Ruins Garden: Step into the intimate and enchanting Ruins Garden, where lush greenery bursts from the foundation of the original estate. Sip a refreshing French 75 as you indulge in savory Pinwheel BLTs, sundried tomato and arugula bites, and toasted walnut cheese balls served on pretzel sticks. All of this, set against a backdrop of antique wrought iron and vibrant sprays of salvia and sasanqua, will transport you to a place of timeless beauty.

The Parterre: Next, wander into the heart of Afton Villa’s formal garden, where the elegance of its design mirrors the charm of its history. Here, enjoy a crisp Fall Sangria paired with Cajun-style mini-Banh Mi sandwiches, brimming with shrimp salad and pickled vegetables. The perfect blend of Southern hospitality and exotic flair, served right in the garden’s radiant center.

The Music Room: Enter the Music Room, a serene space where the late Mrs. Trimble's personal touch is evident in every corner. Here, you'll be serenaded by the enchanting sounds of Rebecca Babin, an LSU-trained harpist, whose melodies will transport you into a peaceful escape. Savor a warm, honey bourbon Old Fashioned while indulging in Heirloom Cuisine’s famous Tomato Pie Tarts and delicate Asian-style Duck Breast Wrap Pinwheels, flavors that will dance as gracefully as the music.

The Cemetery: End your garden journey in the secretive and tranquil Cemetery Garden, tucked away behind high ligustrum hedges and surrounded by towering japonicas and azaleas. It's a perfect, intimate finale to an unforgettable afternoon. Enjoy a refreshing Pomegranate Ginger Paloma while treating yourself to Chicory Coffee Gelato drizzled with Bailey’s Salted Caramel and a light Lemon Rosemary Shortbread Cookie. The perfect sweet note to end your stroll.

Date & Time:

Saturday, October 4, 2025 4:00 pm - 6:30 pm

A perfect Saturday afternoon for a garden party!

Location:

Afton Villa Gardens, St. Francisville, LA

A historic estate like no other, where beauty, history, and nature come together.

Attire:

Garden party chic! Wear your favorite outdoor elegance with comfortable shoes, perfect for strolling through the stunning gardens.

Parking:

Complimentary parking available on the grounds for your convenience.

Weather:

In the event of severe weather conditions, the garden party will be canceled. Please note, due to the nature of this event, we are unable to offer refunds. We appreciate you understanding and hope to see you at a future event!