Cabaret by the River: An Elegant Evening at Andalusia Historic House, Gardens & Arboretum
An evening of music, philanthropy and timeless elegance unfolded along the Delaware River on Saturday, October 3, 2026, as Andalusia Historic House, Gardens & Arboretum hosted its 33rd annual Cabaret by the River fundraiser.
This year’s featured entertainer was acclaimed pianist and vocalist Billy Stritch, whose remarkable career includes a 25-year collaboration with legendary entertainer Liza Minnelli, as well as touring with Tony Bennett as his pianist and musical director. Stritch brought a touch of Broadway glamour to the intimate riverside celebration.
The sold-out black-tie affair welcomed guests for cocktails, gourmet dining, a live auction and a special cabaret performance, all set against the spectacular backdrop of one of the Philadelphia region’s most treasured historic estates.
John Vick, Executive Director of Andalusia Historic House, Gardens & Arboretum, addressed guests during the evening, thanking them for their generous support and their commitment to preserving the historic estate, its magnificent gardens and its rich cultural legacy for future generations.
The annual Cabaret by the River is a wonderful reminder of how Philadelphia-area philanthropy brings people together to celebrate and preserve the region’s extraordinary cultural treasures.
And there’s still time to experience Andalusia this fall! The historic property remains open for its 2026 season through November 13, with garden visits, historic house tours and a special Open Saturday on November 7. It’s a beautiful destination for a leisurely autumn afternoon, just north of Philadelphia.
Another favorite event I love covering at Andalusia is its annual Garden Party & Kentucky Derby celebration, held each spring. Guests gather among the spectacular gardens overlooking the Delaware River for cocktails, hors d’oeuvres and an afternoon of festivities before watching the Kentucky Derby live on a giant screen. It’s always a fashionable and fun way to celebrate the Run for the Roses while supporting this historic treasure.
The 2027 celebration is in the works! While the date and ticket prices have not yet been announced, you can check Andalusia’s official Garden Party page for updates and ticket information as it becomes available.
Check out more photos from this event at my CBS Philadelphia column. Hope to see you there!
Thanks to Andalusia for providing PhillyChitChat with photos from the cabaret event. Shot by Mark Stehle Photography
Socially yours HughE
