The Garden of a Thousand Tales: Once Upon a Runway
About this Event
Welcome to The Garden of a Thousand Tales - Once Upon a Runway!
Once upon a time, in a garden of a thousand tales, the world's cultures came together to dress the next generation in wonder.
On September 12, 2026, Cultura Events and Capital Elite Modeling Agency invite you to the historic gardens of Hillwood Estate Museum & Garden for an evening unlike any other in Washington, DC — where couture meets storytelling, and every child on the runway carries the pride of their heritage.
Once Upon a Runway: The Garden of a Thousand Tales is a cultural kids fairy tale fashion show set against the formal gardens once tended for Marjorie Merriweather Post's own legendary entertaining. Young designers and models — ages 5 to 16, plus mother-child duos — will walk the runway in couture inspired by traditions from around the world, each piece a chapter in its own fairy tale.
Beyond the runway, guests will wander an enchanted garden filled with cultural showcases, visiting designers and artists presenting fusion-inspired couture, floral displays, and live entertainment — an evening built around community and generosity. A portion of every ticket supports children in need in the DC area, so a magical evening for your family also becomes a gift to someone else's.
What to expect:
- A couture runway show spanning six model categories, from our tiniest Busy Bees (ages 1–4) to Runway Elite teens (14–16)
- Designs rooted in cultural heritage from across the globe
- An outdoor garden setting at one of DC's most storied estates
- A community celebration supporting a local children's charity
- Photo moments worthy of your own fairy tale
- A full evening of enchantment, with unique surprises woven throughout the night
- Guest access to Hillwood's historic Museum, home to Marjorie Merriweather Post's storied collection
Why Hillwood: Marjorie Merriweather Post opened her gardens for grand entertaining throughout her life, and Hillwood carries that legacy of gracious hospitality to this day. It is the perfect backdrop for a show that turns children into storytellers, one look at a time.
Gather your family, wear your finest florals, and join us for a night where every child's story gets its runway moment.
Guest Dress Code
Fashionable Floral Chic
In the spirit of Hillwood's storied garden parties, we invite guests to dress the part — think fashionable floral, garden-chic elegance.
For Ladies: florals, soft pastels, or garden-inspired prints — a flowing sundress, a tea-length dress, or elevated separates. Statement hats and delicate accessories are always welcome in the garden.
For Gentlemen: linen or lightweight suiting in soft neutrals, a floral or patterned tie or pocket square, and dress shoes appropriate for garden terrain.
For Children: garden party best — florals, pastels, and playful elegance encouraged.
A note on footwear: the show takes place on natural garden grounds — wedges or block heels are recommended over stilettos.
Please avoid: jeans, athletic wear, and casual streetwear, to preserve the fairy tale atmosphere we're creating together.
With Gratitude to Our Sponsors
Diamond - Patron Sponsor: Ipax Studio & PRO Stemlabs
Once Upon a Runway is made possible in part by the generous support of Ipax Studio and PROStemlabs, our Diamond Patron Sponsors.
Where is it happening?
Event Location & Nearby Stays:
USD 0.00 to USD 161.90
