What do you imagine when you read the following event description? A paparazzi-lined red carpet. An exquisite Oscar award ice sculpture and a scrumptious seafood bar. Amazing appetizers and flaming dessert stations. A chocolate paradise island and speakeasy-themed after party.
You’re probably not picturing older adults dancing the night away in a continuing care retirement community, right? Then, you’ve never been to one of Otterbein Lebanon’s entertaining and immersive events! This blog provides an inside look into the exciting events that happen regularly in our community.
Watch our Night at the Oscars recap video to get started!
Night at the Oscars
This early spring event was truly sensational! When our residents and other guests arrived, they were transported into a world of glamour and excitement. The red carpet experience, complete with flashing cameras and smiles all around, set the perfect tone for the evening.
It was delightful to see everyone thoroughly enjoying themselves, dancing the night away, and relishing every moment of the festivities.
Led by Director of Culinary Services Anne Marie Cohen, our team's attention to detail and culinary delights were nothing short of spectacular. The spread of food was not only delicious but also beautifully presented.
“My team is very, very engaged and very invested in their work,” Cohen says. “They have a lot of passion for doing these events.”
Every dish, from bacon-wrapped scallops to sumptuous cakes and chocolates, was a testament to their talent and dedication to excellence. The carving station with smoked brisket and the exquisite ice sculpture adorned with shrimp cocktails were truly highlights of the evening, adding an extra touch of elegance to this five-star event.
Related: Meet the residents at Otterbein Lebanon >>
Leap Back to the 60s - Leap Day Event
Residents and guests, dressed in their most fashionable 60s tie-dye attire, enjoyed a gourmet burger bar complete with handmade milkshakes and french fries. Jim Kelly, a talented acoustic guitarist, performed groovy tunes to keep the crowd singing and dancing.
Theme Dinners, Brunches, and More - Oh My!
Otterbein Lebanon hosts theme events and meals throughout the year in all areas of the community so everyone can join in on the fun. Here are just a few of the themes they typically celebrate:
- Valentine’s Day Dinner - Steak, scallops, salmon, and chocolate lava cake
- Mardi Gras Event - New Orleans-style band, gumbo, crawfish, oyster po-boy sandwiches, homemade beignets, champagne, and balloon animals
- St. Patrick’s Day Brunch - Irish-style bangers, corn, sauerkraut, cabbage, Bailey’s Irish cream cake
- Reds Opening Day - Grilled hot dogs, macaroni and cheese, baked beans, and popcorn
- Wine and Dine - Jazz band, prime rib or Italian buffet, cocktail hour with hors d’oeuvres, and shared bottles of wine or sparkling cider
- Summer Luau - Pig roast, professional hula dancers, and live music
- Outdoors Summer Concerts - Live swing music, barbecue chicken or ribs, interactive swing dancers
Cohen’s culinary team loves collaborating with the marketing team on special events. Collectively, they treasure seeing the events come to life and especially love watching the residents experience joy gathering with friends, family, and partners (employees).
“Usually in the fall, we start thinking, what's our big thing going to be for next year? We're always adding more,” she said. “You realize you just gave residents an experience where they didn’t have to travel or spend a lot of money to enjoy. They just walk down the hall or get in a golf cart and ride over.”
Residents from any level of care are welcome, too: “Any resident is welcome to come to any event. But we also do separate events for skilled nursing and assisted living, not to keep them separate, but to allow them to join where they’re comfortable.”
Related: Discover the benefits of moving to a senior living apartment >>
Ready to Learn More?
Are you curious about life at Otterbein Lebanon? Contact us to learn more or schedule your personalized tour.
