An Evening in the Shire: Hobbit-themed Fundraiser at Aamodt’s Apple Farm

An Evening in the Shire unfurls under apple boughs at Aamodt’s Apple Farm in Stillwater, Minnesota, offering a theatrical, community-driven evening that feels less like a fundraiser and more like a local tradition in the making. On Saturday, June 6, 2026, The Zephyr Theatre converts an orchard into a functioning Shire: the cast presents a fully staged excerpt from Scene 1 of The Hobbit, live Shire music threads between rows of trees, and guests circulate with complimentary food and a beverage provided by Aamodt’s, Thor’s Hard Cider, and Saint Croix Vineyards. The setting is the draw—mature apple trees, open grass lanes, and the sweeping bluffs of the St. Croix River Valley provide a rare outdoor stage where audience and performers meet under stars. Tickets come in three tiers—Friend of the Shire, Hobbit Companion, and Fellowship Patron—each bundling admission with perks like signed posters, a commemorative t-shirt, raffle entries, and a 20 percent discount to see The Hobbit at the Zephyr this summer. Doors open at 6:45 p.m. for a 7:00 p.m. start; the evening runs about two hours with general admission seating on a first-come basis. Visuals and programming are curated to welcome families and patrons of all ages; the site is ADA accessible. Beyond the performance, the night models a tangible way to support arts in a small river town: raffle proceeds, donations during a ‘fund-a-need’ segment, and ticket revenue help the Zephyr expand educational programming and production capacity. For visitors, it’s an appealing mix of rural Minnesota charm and theatrical craft—an outdoor summer event that turns a working orchard into a stage while spotlighting local producers. Practical notes: bring a jacket for cool June evenings, cash for the raffle, and arrive early if you want a closer view of the performance; ADA seating is available. The apple trees and surrounding bluffs create good photo opportunities at sunset, and the combination of cider and live music lends an instantly approachable atmosphere. Whether you’re a theatre patron, a Tolkien fan, or a visitor seeking a memorable summer evening in the St. Croix Valley, An Evening in the Shire is a singular community event that combines storytelling, place, and purpose. Tickets are tiered—Friend of the Shire ($75), Hobbit Companion ($150), and Fellowship Patron ($250)—each includes admission, food, one beverage, and special add-ons like signed posters, a T-shirt, raffle entry, or cast recognition in the program. Limited availability makes early booking wise; proceeds support Zephyr’s educational outreach and future productions. Meet at Aamodt’s Apple Farm, 6428 Manning Ave N, Stillwater, MN 55082; plan for rural parking and follow event crew directions on arrival. This evening offers a direct way to fund local theater while enjoying a lively summer night in the orchard.