Ice Cream Social & Free Concerts Celebrating Gifford Pinchot’s Birthday
August 9, 2026
11:30 am - 4:00 pm
Join us for a summer afternoon of music, history, family fun, and community celebration at the historic home of Gifford Pinchot.
Throughout his life, Gifford Pinchot welcomed friends, neighbors, and visitors to Grey Towers for gatherings that combined hospitality, culture, and enjoyment of the beautiful estate he called home. To celebrate Gifford’s 161st Birthday (and Smokey’s 82nd Birthday) the Grey Towers Heritage Association, Kindred Spirits, and the U.S. Forest Service invite you to continue that tradition by joining us for a special day featuring two free concerts, free ice cream, family activities, and a community picnic on the grounds of Grey Towers National Historic Site.
Whether you enjoy jazz, classical music, history, family activities, or simply relaxing on the lawn with friends, this promises to be a memorable summer experience for visitors of all ages.
Event Schedule
12:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Free Access to the Grey Towers Mansion
Explore the historic home of Gifford Pinchot and discover the stories, architecture, and conservation legacy that continue to inspire visitors from around the world.
12:00 PM – 3:00 PM
The Lost Art Lacers of New Jersey
On the East Terrace, Lost Art Lacers will demonstrate their beautiful art of lacemaking.
12:00 PM – 1:30 PM
Doug Smith’s Dixieland All-Stars
Enjoy the joyful, upbeat sounds of traditional New Orleans jazz and Dixieland music. This lively performance is sure to have audiences smiling, tapping their feet, and celebrating summer.
1:30 PM – 2:30 PM
Green Trees Early Learning Center and StageCraft Children’s Activities
Children’s activities and bubbles dance party!
1:30 PM – 2:00 PM
Free Ice Cream Social
A Grey Towers summer tradition! Enjoy complimentary ice cream while gathering with family, friends, and neighbors.
2:00 PM – 2:30 PM
Pictures with Smokey Bear
Meet one of America’s most beloved conservation icons, learn about wildfire prevention, and take home a memorable photo.
2:30 PM – 4:00 PM
Alexander Markov: Classical Favorites & Celebration of the American Spirit
Internationally acclaimed violin virtuoso Alexander Markov returns to Grey Towers with a dynamic and exciting performance featuring both classical masterpieces and his electrifying rock violin. Accompanied by piano, bass, and percussion, Markov’s unique artistry will once again transform the Grey Towers Amphitheater into an unforgettable musical experience.
Enjoy the Grey Towers Pinchot Picnic Partners Program
You can bring your own picnic or let our local Picnic Partners help make your day at Grey Towers even more enjoyable. Order picnic lunches, snacks, desserts, and specialty offerings from participating Milford-area restaurants, cafés, bakeries, and markets, then relax and enjoy them on the beautiful grounds of Grey Towers during the Ice Cream Social & Pinchot Picnic Music Festival.
Visit our Picnic Partners page for participating businesses and ordering information »
Enjoy Everything Grey Towers Has to Offer
- Throughout the day, visitors can:
- Tour the historic Grey Towers Mansion
- Enjoy two outstanding live musical performances
- Receive complimentary ice cream
- Meet Smokey Bear
- Participate in family-friendly activities
- Stroll the beautiful grounds and gardens
- Visit the Grey Towers Gift Shop featuring books, gifts, and unique souvenirs
- Relax with a picnic in the amphitheater and lawn areas
What to Bring
- A lawn chair or blanket for amphitheater seating
- A picnic lunch or food from participating Milford partners
- A shade umbrella or sun protection for a comfortable afternoon outdoors
- Family and friends
- Your enthusiasm for music, history, and community
Admission is Free
- Few places offer the opportunity to enjoy free concerts, free ice cream, a historic mansion tour, family activities, a community picnic, and the beauty of a National Historic Site—all in a single afternoon.
- Bring a chair, bring a picnic, and join us for a special day of music, history, and community at Grey Towers.