Suggestions for a casual engagement party?
Lisa emails:
I wanted to ask if you could suggest any places for an engagement party? My parents have expressed interest in throwing one, but they are out of town and are asking for suggestions. Our guest list will be around 70 ppl, and I don't want them to spend a lot of money. Joe and I are [more] casual than formal, so maybe something like a BBQ at a park. Though the few places I've called charge a significant fee just for reserving a pavilion. Have you heard of any unique engagement parties, or know of any hidden gems in the area that we could contact?
Because Lisa and her fiance are looking for something casual, that probably widens the range of places. And there a bunch of parks around the region. So there have gotta be some good places.
Got a suggestion for Lisa? Please share! And bonus points for a sentence or two about why you're suggesting that place.
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Comments
You can reserve a lakeside area with a fireplace and building at Little Notch for the party - and even have the option of renting platform tents if some folks to stay over. Very reasonable prices. Fort Ann, NY. campdirector@camplittlenotch.org for details.
It is an ex-GS camp which was purchased and is being run by a non-profit. It is beautiful, pristine, surrounds an 8-acre lake, and the property includes an easy hike to a Civil War era iron furnace.
... said Camp Little Notch on Jun 11, 2015 at 4:58 PM | link
This place isn't a bbq in the park, but you could try checking out Stable Gate Barn in Castleton. It's a unique space (in an old, redesigned barn) and maybe good for a smaller party. I'm not sure about rates, but it's a bit 'off the beaten path', so maybe it's cheaper than other options. It's a cool space too that would give a more casual feel. You could also try contacting Birch Hill Catering (who runs Stable Gate), as they have a few pavilions that can be rented. Again, not sure about rates. http://birchhillcatering.com/weddings/venues/stablegate-barn-vineyards/
... said Brian R. on Jun 11, 2015 at 5:04 PM | link
We have been to informal BBQ parties at Grafton Lake State Park for the past few years. I believe if you just want to grab one (or a few picnic tables), they are free. If the pavilion is free, I think you can grab it as well. If you want to make sure and book the pavilion, there might be a fee.
http://nysparks.com/parks/53/fees-rates.aspx
... said CVAA on Jun 11, 2015 at 5:04 PM | link
Peebles Island State Park, nestled between Cohoes and Waterford, has a very nice pavilion with great views of the Hudson. And The Angry Penguin Tavern & Restaurant, right across the bridge in Waterford, does very good buffet catering at quite reasonable prices - maybe a bit cheaper if you pick up the dishes and serve them yourselves.. We had an excellent and very generous buffet party from there for less than $15/ person.
The Angry Penguin Tavern
39 Broad St.
Waterford, NY 12188
518-237-2829
https://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Angry-Penguin-Tavern/
... said chezjake on Jun 11, 2015 at 5:59 PM | link
Try Thacher Park. You can reserve a pavilion for $150-$250, and the view will be incredible.
... said jesse on Jun 11, 2015 at 6:47 PM | link
The Crossings in Colonie on Albany Shaker Rd.
... said Dave on Jun 12, 2015 at 6:33 AM | link
The Schodack Town Park is very nice and has a large pavilion that would easly accomodate a party your size.
... said Ben on Jun 12, 2015 at 9:10 AM | link
correction: Camp Little Notch has a private 80 (eighty) acre lake! Perfect for kayaking, paddling, swimming and sailing.
... said seneca on Jun 12, 2015 at 9:20 AM | link
There are pavillions up at the Colonie town park on the Mohawk, up Route 9. It's pretty there and pretty quiet because most people seem to go to the Crossings these days. The only downside is that they might charge all your guests to come into the park. Which is probably why most people go to the Crossings.
... said Amy on Jun 12, 2015 at 9:36 AM | link