Mansion Events
Cooking Classes
Enjoy an evening of delicious food; cooking demonstrations, possibly some hands on experience and a fun atmosphere on the beautiful grounds of the Vrooman Mansion. Past cooking classes have included an Outdoor BBQ on the lawn, Classes with Glasses (a wine pairing class) and Holiday Entertaining & Appetizers.
Fashion Shows
We have hosted various fashion shows at the Vrooman Mansion. The fashion shows are typically scheduled on a Sunday afternoon and include a variety of desserts and beverages prior to the show. Some of the fashion shows have featured live models while others may feature the clothing displayed on mannequins. Several models have displayed a theme of ensembles. Guests are able to guess what each clothing article is made of and ask questions regarding the styles.
A Day in Historic Dimmitt's Grove
Last held in June 2008, this event is held every three years and involves the entire neighborhood surrounding the Vrooman Mansion. Held in the summer, house & garden tours are available, featuring homes full of history and beautiful gardens with unique landscaping. Enjoy a guided walking tour and experience the wonderful architectural/historic features of the homes of this interesting neighborhood. Indulge in lunch or a tea at one of the fine homes or gardens. Shop for fine arts and crafts to flowers and garden art at the local vendors' booths. Enjoy the entertainment with family and friends.
Christmas at the Mansions
During the holidays, the Vrooman Mansion participates in 'Christmas at the Mansions', a holiday open house tour. This event is a collaboration of three mansions in the Bloomington/Normal area-the Vrooman Mansion, the David Davis Mansion and the Broadview Mansion. These three beautiful mansions can be toured as a Christmas gift to the community. This rare treat is offered-usually the third Saturday afternoon and evening in December-for one low price and a shuttle service is provided between the mansions. Tasty holiday treats, seasonal music and costumed guides add to the tour festivities.
This fundraising event benefits the Immanuel Bible Foundation, the David Davis Foundation and a community service agency of our choice.
Ticket sales are limited and usually go on sale December 1st. For more information call the David Davis Foundation at 309.828.1084 or Immanuel Bible Foundation at 309.452.6710.
Teddy Bear Tea
The Vrooman Mansion and friends work together in hosting their annual event, the Teddy Bear Tea. The tea is usually held from 4-8 p.m. one evening during the first week in December. The 2009 Teddy Bear Tea will be held on December 1.
Chestnut Health Systems, a worldwide organization headquartered in Bloomington, began collecting teddy bears nearly 20 years ago to give to any adolescent entering residential treatment for drugs or alcohol abuse. Choosing a special teddy bear serves two purposes: the bear serves as the adolescent's support while residing at the treatment facility away from family and friends; the bear also serves as a reminder that the adolescent is still a child and can soften his or her image in this tough world.
Locally, teddy bears are collected in part through the Teddy Bear Tea, which this year will be hosetd by Pam and Dana Kowalewski, owners of the Vrooman Mansion, staff and friends. In 2008, 400 bears were needed in the Bloomington facility alone.
To participate in the tea, we invite you to bring a new or gently loved 18" teddy bear to the mansion and place it under one of our many decorated trees. Delicious treats and drinks are served in the dining room for your enjoyment as a thank you for your gift to an adolescent during a very challenging time in his or her life. Contact the Vrooman Mansion at 309.828.8816 for more details.