Sunday in the Park Celebrates 35 Years of Preservation

In November 1993, Sunday in the Park became the first event covered by the newly launched Nfocus magazine. It was also the subject of the issue’s cover. Already in its fourth year, Sunday in the Park had made an impression on supporters and conservationists throughout the city, with many considering it one of the premier fundraisers supporting green space in Nashville.

This year, Sunday in the Park celebrated 35 years of supporting Friends of Warner Parks’ mission to preserve, protect and steward Percy and Edwin Warner Parks. Over 700 supporters arrived at Ridge Field on a stunning sunny day for one of Nashville’s favorite brunches. Fashionable ladies and gentlemen enjoyed cocktails in the spacious tents or under the fall sun. Co-chairs Kelly Crockett and Dana Oman — in tune with what guests were looking for — cleverly planned a separate bloody Mary bar to expedite wait times and ensure no one stayed thirsty too long.

After cocktails, guests took their seats inside a beautifully decorated tent. While Sunday in the Park remarks are often comparatively brief, they’re filled with interesting updates on projects and milestones. Govan White, board chair of the It’s My Nature capital campaign, spoke about the success and purpose of the project, which has thus far raised $15 million to preserve the 3,200-acre parks. Through generous contributions and work with the Metro Parks and Recreation Department, Friends of Warner Parks has improved the Percy Warner Golf Course, planted over 250,000 trees, removed over 1 million invasive plants and more.

Jenny Hannon, Friends of Warner Parks president, also addressed the room. “Over the years, I have come to know the immense importance of preserving and protecting this park,” she said. “This fall, this park is alive with a diverse and vibrant ecosystem.” Jenny explained that her love was not just for the people who visit the park, but also “for the plant life and the wildlife that call this place home — from the barred owls to the deers and the wildflowers.” 

Before guests settled in to lunch, Warner Bass read the invocation “Praise to the Trees” by Becca Stevens, which brought home the message of reverence for the tree-filled park.