By Heather Danforth, WNPF Donor Engagement Manager

After two long years of virtual Auctions, the Washington’s National Park Fund team is beyond excited to welcome our community of park lovers back for an in-person Auction for the Parks!

Like you, we’ve found solace and hope in our parks these last few years. Our parks are always there for us – and our annual Auction is one incredible evening where we all can show up for them. This year, our auction benefits restoration efforts in our three national parks, including restoring the meadows at Mount Rainier National Park, preserving the Big Beaver wetlands in North Cascades National Park, and revegetating areas of degraded habitat in Olympic National Park. We hope you’ll join us; there are still a few tickets available.

At 5:00 pm on Saturday, April 30th the doors of the Seattle Design Center will open, and bidding for the silent auction will begin! You’ll have until 6:30 pm to place your winning bids while you peruse the items on display, mingle with fellow park supporters and rangers, and nibble on appetizers. Don’t forget to “Purchase for the Parks” – you’ll have the opportunity to ‘shop’ and make a donation to offset the cost of items needed by the parks for the boots on the ground work they’ll be doing this summer. As the silent auction closes, everyone will find their seats and the excitement continues with 20 live auction packages and some fun and games.

To whet your appetite, we’ve pulled together a little sneak peek preview of some of the live auction packages that will be featured, that we have our eyes on. Take note and be ready to bid – these one-of-a-kind park experiences are sure to be popular!

Let’s dive in.

For the National Park Enthusiast

• Your Very Own Flat Hat: It is safe to say that we all love the park service green and grey. The flat hat inspires kids to explore careers in national parks and monuments and reminds us all of fond park memories and adventures in our parks. Whether you’ve been dreaming of wearing a flat hat since you were a child or you have been looking to bring some of your favorite places into your home office while observing Leave No Trace, this is your opportunity to bring home your very own flat hat. This straw ranger hat was worn by a backcountry ranger at Dinosaur National Monument and is looking to retire in your home.
  
• Magical Mount Rainier Sunset Picnic: Celebrate a special occasion in magical mountain style with a sunset picnic for 2-4 people at a mutually agreed upon location at Mount Rainier National Park. This package will include a gourmet-inspired charcuterie/appetizer spread, champagne or wine, and a special instrumental serenade by musicians Anastasia Allison of The Musical Mountaineers and her husband, Aaron. A photographer will capture the wonder as you create an extraordinary memory together.

• A Day in the Life of a Glacial Geologist: Pack your favorite trail snacks, a brown bag lunch and your hiking gear for a day of exploring and learning in Mount Rainier National Park! The winning bidder and up to 3 friends (4 guests total) will meet glacial geologist Claire Todd at the White River Campground, and hike three miles to one of Claire’s field sites where you will gain first-hand experience with glacier research.

If You’re Looking for Something Special

• Diamond Earrings by Ben Bridge Jeweler: A De Beers Forevermark diamonds totaling .46 ctw are held in a bead detailed 18k yellow gold bezel setting bringing a classic stud earrings to a whole new level of stunning design and style. ​Beautiful, rare and responsibly sourced, each Forevermark Diamond is a genuine, natural, and untreated; a diamond whose quality, beauty, and integrity have been protected at every step in its journey.

• Aged to Perfection – 13 Year Van Winkle Family Reserve Rye Whiskey: Until now, most rye whiskeys were 4 years old or younger. This 13-year rye is one of the oldest rye whiskeys available today. The maturity it has achieved while aging is obvious as you take the first sip. Rye whiskey lovers who try this bottling will never look back at the younger versions again. Whether it’s saved for a special occasion or shared with family and friends, opening this bottle is guaranteed to be an unforgettable experience.  

For the Ultimate Seattle Sports Fan

• Seattle Kraken Authentic Limited-Edition NHL Jaden Schwartz Signed Inaugural Jersey: Seattle Kraken authentic limited-edition NHL Adidas away jersey with autographed nameplate and Certificate of Authenticity.

• OL Reign Season Tickets: This package includes two reserved seats for the 2022 season at Lumen Field plus 2 scarves.

For Those In Need of a Getaway

• Methow Valley Ski Getaway: Experience one of the best cross-country ski areas in North America. The Methow Valley has miles and miles of expertly groomed ski trails for either classic or skate skiing. Stay two nights in a one-bedroom, well-furnished apartment in Mazama and ski out your front door! Escape Seattle clouds for clear blue skies. New to skiing? No problem. This package includes 2-day cross country ski rentals for two, plus a ski lesson by the expert staff at Methow Valley Ski School in Mazama. Also included are two 3-day ski passes for all the trails in the Methow Trails system. If that wasn’t enough, we know you’re in need of some fun outdoor gear so there is a $100 gift card to Cascade Outdoor Store and then the icing on the cake, is a gift card to the Rocking Horse Bakery in Winthrop where you can relax and eat your heart out after a long day on the ski trails.

• 7 Night Accommodation at Torres Mazatlan: Mazatlán has miles of pristine beaches, rich history, and bountiful outdoor activities. Visit the historic sights of ancient areas in Mexico, and relax in the surf and sun of the Zona Dorada (Golden Zone). Sip mango margaritas at La Palapa, Vi-resort’s on-site restaurant and bar, while planning your next day’s activities. VI Resorts offers you 7 nights’ accommodation in a 1-bedroom condominium unit at Torres Mazatlan. 

Unable to Attend?

Consider making a gift in lieu of attending to support the Fund-a-Need projects and keep an eye out for an email on Monday, May 3. You’ll have the opportunity to participate in an online auction Monday, May 3 to Friday, May 7 to give back to the parks and bid on gear, experiences and more.