Shakespeare in the Park is such a beloved summer tradition, attracting thousands of local theatergoers each year. And while this season’s performance is still a couple of months off, you can get into the spirit of things this week as Nashville Shakespeare Festival hosts its annual Midsummer Night benefit. Presented at Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery, this year’s event promises a fabulous evening of “celebration, community and live performance.” Guests can look forward to plenty of signature cocktails, tasty hors d’oeuvres and an exciting silent auction offering a wide range of cool items and experiences — including a rare collection of surviving leaves and bifolia from Shakespeare’s Second Folio, published in 1632. There will also be a sneak peek at this summer’s show, featuring some of the festival’s talented actors. This year’s celebration feels especially significant, as Nashville Shakes prepares to return to its longtime home in Centennial Park with its production of A Midsummer Night’s Dream, which runs Aug. 20 through Sept. 20.
6 p.m. at Nelson’s Green Brier Distillery
1414 Clinton St.
