3-066-014 - The Print Collector/Heritage Images

Night Fete at the Botanic Gardens, Regent's Park, [London], 1881. 'In the Grounds; the Promenade; Rhododendron Tent; Table Decoration; the Conservatory...The delightful Gardens...were, on the evening of Wednesday week, lighted up with a beautiful arrangement of white and coloured lamps. These were hung in festoons along the principal walks, or placed on the lawns, as well as in the marquees and in the conservatory. The Gardens upon this occasion were visited by a large and fashionable assembly of ladies and gentlemen in evening dress...The scenes presented to view in different parts of the grounds, with the illumination of the flower-beds and shrubberies, and of the lake, which bore floating stars on its calm surface, were almost enchanting; and the bright dresses of the ladies appeared to great advantage. The large tent contained a display of various prize devices in the floral decoration of tables, alcoves, and mantelpieces. There were hanging baskets of flowers, wreaths, crosses, and garlands of lovely white blossoms, relieved with maidenhair and other ferns; and a bridecake, adorned with flowers and foliage, was particularly noticed. The show of rhododendrons and azaleas, furnished by Mr. A. Waterer, of Woking, occupied a separate tent'. From "Illustrated London News", 1881.