2026 Gala: Biergarten & Steampunk Fashion Show

Celebrating 150 Years of the Hegeler Carus Mansion

In 2026, the Hegeler Carus Mansion commemorates 150 years since its completion. To honor this milestone, the Mansion will host its inaugural fundraising gala in 2026; the Biergarten & Steampunk Fashion Show. This is an evening designed to celebrate heritage while investing in the future.

This event brings together the German roots of the Mansion’s original inhabitants with contemporary artistry, music, and style. It marks the beginning of a renewed commitment to preservation and will help launch future capital efforts dedicated to restoring and caring for the Mansion for generations to come.

Event Details
Saturday, September 19, 2026
6 to 9 p.m.
The Grove at the Hegeler Carus Mansion
1307 Seventh Street, LaSalle, Illinois

Tickets are $150 per person (Two for $250) and include dinner, one drink ticket, live entertainment, and access to the live auction.

Note: This event is rain or shine! Tents will be used in the event of rain.

PURCHASE TICKETS HERE

An Evening at the Mansion

Guests will gather in The Grove for a night where Victorian elegance meets steampunk artistry. The experience includes:

German-inspired food and beer by Thyme Craft Kitchen
A specialty cocktail created by Thyme Craft Kitchen and Star Union Spirits
Desserts by Blue Eyed Rascal Baking Co.
Live contemporary music by Manderley Strings
Steampunk Fashion Show juried by textile artist Jane Case Vickers
Live auction benefiting the Mansion

Throughout the evening, guests are invited to celebrate the Mansion’s rich history while helping shape its next chapter.

Dress Code

Guests are encouraged to participate in the Gala’s theme by wearing their own Steampunk attire.

Examples include: Victorian-inspired gowns and suits, corsets, top hats, metal/gear jewelry, aviator goggles, leather accessories

Guests may also wear cocktail attire

Accommodations

The links below will allow you to book rooms in our blocks at the special Gala rate. Reservations must be made by August 19 (or when all allocated group rooms are reserved, whichever comes FIRST) to receive the Gala rate.

Fairfield by Marriott Inn & Suites Peru
4385 Venture Drive Peru, Illinois, USA, 61354

Gala Rates: $164/night

Silent and Live Auctions

Live Auction

Bid on exclusive experiences and one-of-a-kind items during our Live Auction, with auctioneer, John Williams. The Live Auction is only during the Gala for those who purchased tickets.

Silent Auction

Can't make it to the Gala but still want to participate? Check out our Silent Auction that features gift cards, baskets, and amazing experiences from local businesses and organizations! Bidding begins August 1st and runs through the Gala on September 19th.

SILENT AUCTION WEBSITE

Other Ways to Participate

Star Union Spirits is proud to introduce the Hegeler Carus Mansion 75-25 Whiskey Reserve with Sherry/Rum Cask Finish, a limited-edition whiskey created exclusively to commemorate the 150th Anniversary of the Mansion.

This commemorative expression begins with our award-winning 75-25 Whiskey, which has been finished in the same cask that previously held the Seven-Year Reserve Rum with a Sherry Cask Finish.

Bottle Price: $63 (tax included). For every bottle sold, $10 will be donated directly to the Hegeler Carus Mansion.
Pre-Order your bottle today by emailing info@starunionspirits.com

Before the Gala, join us for an Open House at Star Union Spirits from 5 to 7 p.m. with a Guided Tasting at 7 p.m. Guests will discover how each stage of the barrel's journey contributed to the final whiskey, gaining a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship behind this limited release.

Event Details
Thursday, September 17, 2026
5 to 7 p.m.
Star Union Spirits
1307 Seventh Street, LaSalle, Illinois

Tickets are $10 and include a flight tasting and discussion.
RSVP at info@starunionspirits.com

Commemorative Shirts

To accompany the Gala, we are selling limited-edition, steampunk shirts! Portions of the proceeds come directly back to the Mansion and you get a stylish new outfit. It's a win-win for everyone.

To order a shirt, visit www.bonfire.com/hegelercarusmansion150/

Where Celebration Supports Preservation

The Hegeler Carus Mansion is a National Historic Landmark and one of Illinois’ most significant architectural treasures. Preservation requires ongoing care, thoughtful restoration, and community support.

Proceeds from the 2026 Gala: Biergarten & Steampunk Fashion Show directly support the long-term stewardship of the Mansion, ensuring its stories, craftsmanship, and cultural importance remain accessible for future generations.

PURCHASE TICKETS HERE

Trips of a Lifetime Auction - Sponsored by AmFund

Book the vacation of your dreams! AmFund representatives will be on-site for a special Trips of a Lifetime Auction that features 8 trips to amazing locations all over the world.

The Trips of a Lifetime Auction is made possible by AmFund and is only during the Gala for those who purchased tickets.