NUTLEY, NJ — History will come alive, one cocktail at a time, when Kingsland Manor hosts “” on Saturday, Oct. 3, 2026, from 4 to 7 p.m.
Presented by the Historic Restoration Trust of Nutley, the special fundraising event will celebrate America’s 250th anniversary with a historic twist, taking guests on a cocktail-tasting journey through four distinct periods of American history.
Different areas of the Manor will represent each era, with guests invited to sample signature cocktails inspired by the period: 1776 — The Colonial Era in the Summer Kitchen1890 — The Gilded Age in the BallroomThe 1920s — Prohibition and the Manor’s Speakeasy1976 — America’s Bicentennial in the Parlor
Luna, Jim Dandy’s, and Aventura are among the local establishments participating in the evening.
The celebration will also include elegant hors d’oeuvre, live music and entertainment, guided tours of the historic Manor, and beer, wine and soda served on the patio.
Built in the 1700s, Kingsland Manor is one of Nutley’s oldest surviving homes and is listed on both the New Jersey and National Registers of Historic Places. Once home to generations of the Kingsland and McGinnity families, the Manor reflects centuries of local history—from colonial life and early industry to the days of Prohibition and its own speakeasy.
Today, Kingsland Manor serves as a museum, educational center and community gathering place. Free monthly tours, lectures, hands-on demonstrations, educational programs, and unique events allow visitors of all ages to experience Nutley’s history firsthand.
Proceeds from “” will support the preservation, restoration, and educational mission of Kingsland Manor. Planned projects include essential repairs to the historic structure, restoration of windows, pillars, and exterior woodwork, rebuilding the historic icehouse, and renovating the annex to provide other research, storage, office, and rental space.
Funds will also help restore the colonial kitchen, allowing the Manor to offer authentic open-hearth cooking demonstrations and expanded educational programming.
The Historic Restoration Trust of Nutley partners with Nutley High School to provide students with volunteer, research, and service-learning opportunities. Each year, the Trust also awards a scholarship to a graduating Nutley High School senior.
Community members and local businesses may support the event through sponsorship opportunities ranging from $250 to $5,000. Featured sponsorships are also available to support the evening’s culinary experience, cocktail and beverage service, live music, and entertainment.
Smart evening wear is suggested. Victorian elegance and historic costumes are optional but welcome. Guests should dress for the weather. The event will be held rain or shine and will move indoors in case of inclement weather.
“A Toast to History” offers guests an opportunity to enjoy an elegant evening, sample cocktails from across the centuries and help preserve one of Nutley’s most treasured landmarks for generations to come.
Tickets may be purchased online through ? plus a service fee.
To buy tickets or sponsorships by check or cash without added fees, or for more information about sponsorship opportunities, email [email protected].