Summer Serenades at 1884 On The Bluff: A Zinnia Field Dream Turned Reality
- Jo Dee Krotz
- Mar 25
- 2 min read

Live Music. Wildflowers. Golden Hour Magic in Montrose, Iowa.
It started with a dream...
One zinnia field. Five summer nights.
A whisper of music in the breeze, and a meadow that begged to be filled with laughter, clinking cocktails, and slow moments that linger long after the stars come out.
This summer, that dream is blooming into reality at 1884 On The Bluff, a wedding and event venue tucked above the Mississippi River in Montrose, Iowa. Known for its stone farmhouse, rustic charm, and unmatched views, the Bluff is hosting its first-ever Summer Serenades—a series of five intimate date-night experiences in the zinnia field.
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A One-of-a-Kind Iowa Summer Event
Each Saturday event includes:
A thoughtfully prepared outdoor dinner by rotating local caterers
Hand-shaken craft cocktails or non-alcoholic drinks by HanCocktails
A sweet treat from a beloved local bakery
Live acoustic music under the trees
And a hand-cut bouquet of zinnias to decorate your space and take home
Every detail is meant to slow you down, ground you in the present, and wrap you in the kind of easy, untamed joy that only summer can bring.
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Why We Created Summer Serenades
At 1884 On The Bluff, we’ve always believed in the power of place—the stories it holds, the people it brings together, and the moments it makes unforgettable. While we’re honored to host weddings in southeast Iowa, we also believe in creating seasonal events that invite people to gather, connect, and celebrate the everyday magic of life.
Summer Serenades were born from that vision—something romantic, casual, and wholly unique.
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What Makes This Montrose Date Night So Special?
Limited to just 60 guests per night, so it feels personal and peaceful
Outdoor seating tucked next to the timberline with wooden chairs and small side tables
A vibe that’s rustic, romantic, and completely unpretentious
The kind of event you’ll remember for years—and want to bring someone special back to next summer
Whether you’re searching for live music near Keokuk, Fort Madison, or Burlington, or dreaming of a date night in southeast Iowa that feels like something out of a movie—you’ve found it.
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Join Us This Summer
Summer Serenades take place on:
June 28
July 19
August 9
August 23
September 13
Each event features different musicians, menus, and surprises—but they all share the same heart.
Tickets are limited and go on sale April 1.
We hope you’ll join us under the stars.
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Learn more and get tickets at:
Local Flavor, Handpicked with Love
Each Summer Serenade is a true collaboration with our favorite local makers and creatives. We’re so grateful to partner with these incredible talents:
Food & Catering
Cocktails
Desserts & Sweets
Music
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