Summer Celebration Cookout

Ruthmere Summer Celebration Cookout will be held on Saturday August 15 from 4-8 pm at the Beardsley Discovery Center!

• Premium Fare including grilled steak, salmon, portobello mushrooms and vegetables prepared on site, along with gourmet sides and cheesecake cups and brownies with toppings.
• Local craft beers including Brass Elk, Wedgewood, Iechyd Da, Goshen Brewing and Westwind on tap.
• Full bar with specialty cocktails just for the summer heat.
• Dance band Mr. Z performs in the dance tent.
• Corn Hole in the Havilah Beardsley House front yard!
• Main Street closed between Beardsley Avenue and Crawford Street for participant parking.
• Non-alcoholic beverages provided to guests at no expense.

The Summer Celebration Cookout is a fundraiser. All proceeds support the Ruthmere Arts and History Campus. Summer Celebration Cookout is a 21 and over event. No exceptions.

Ticket Types:

VIP Underwriter Experiences
An elevated VIP Underwriter Experience is available for the last two Ruthmere Signature Events in 2026:

• Elkhart Summer Celebration Cookout on August 15
• Ruthmere Night at Holiday Lights on December 4
• Both of these Signature Events can be purchased at a discounted rate in one transaction when you go to checkout for $3500.

2026 Summer Cookout - Ruthmere Signature Event

VIP Table of 8 Underwriter ($2,000) receives:

• Reserved Table of 8 for your party
• Up to 2 additional seats at your table to a maximum of 10 for $200 per seat
• Choice of local craft beer sampler or bottle of champagne at your table upon your arrival
• 24 additional drink tickets for 8 people. 3 drink tickets for additional seat holders
• Themed food for all provided by The Galley Catering

VIP Individual Underwriter ($250) receives:

• Preferred seating in VIP Table area
• 4 drink tickets per VIP to use any way they wish
• Themed food provided by The Galley Catering

Standard Non-Member Ticketholder ($100) receives:

• Ample seating options in General Seating areas with tables and chairs
• 2 drink tickets per Ticketholder
• Themed food provided by The Galley Catering

Standard Ruthmere Member Ticketholder ($85) receives:

• Member Discount of 15%
• Ample seating options in General Seating areas with tables and chairs
• 2 drink tickets per Ticketholder
• Themed food provided by The Galley Catering