Grab your sun hats and comfortable shoes, because April means spring gardening and spring Garden Tours. Whether you’re a local or up for some jet setting {ok, road tripping} in the name of colorful blooms, we’ve rounded up the best garden events in the Queen City and nearby NC / SC locales.
For the local green thumbs
Spring Plant Sale
April 15- April 16, 2016
UNC Charlotte Botanical Gardens
Spruce up your yard with a few more additions from the UNC Charlotte Botanical Gardens Spring Sale. Tune into their website for more updates as the date approaches.
2016 Art In The Garden Tour
April 23- April 24, 2016
Various locations
Take a relaxed stroll through eight gardens as artists paint “en plain air”. The weekend concludes with a garden part and plain art display at the Mint Museum Randolph on Sunday afternoon. Tickets are $15 for members/$20 for non-members in advance, and $20 for members/ $25 non-members on tour dates.
Rosedale Garden Tour 2016
May 1, 2016
Historic Rosedale Plantation
The second annual garden tour at Historic Rosedale is back and better than ever. This year join in on tours of three beautiful sites: The Duke Mansion, Elmwood Cemetery and Historic Rosedale Plantation. The third and final stop at Rosedale will invite participants to tour the gardens and house, enjoy a cocktail in the gardens and even purchase a plant for your home garden.
Gardener’s Garden Tour
May 7- May 8, 2016
Wing Haven Gardens and Bird Sanctuary
The Gardeners’ Garden Tour is celebrating its 22nd year with a lineup of five private garden tours in addition to open hours at Wing Haven Gardens. The weekend long even is $30 in advance and $35 on the day of the event.
Mother’s Day at the Garden
May 7- May 8, 2016
Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden
Indulge in a Mother’s Day weekend in bloom at Daniel Stowe. Their weekend long celebration will feature live music, carriage rides, family activities, food trucks and even mimosas for mom and the whole family to enjoy.
Secret Gardens of Fourth Ward Tour 2016
May 14th- May 15th, 2016
Historic Fourth Ward Neighborhood
Have you ever wondered what an urban garden looks like? The Secret Gardens of Fourth Ward Tour gives participants rare access into the gardens nestled in historic fourth ward. From vibrant, unexpected courtyards to public art expressions, participants will explore the often hidden charm of this center city neighborhood. Admission includes a walkable, self-guided tour along with free beer and craft cocktail tastings along the route and horse-drawn carriage rides during tour hours.
For those willing to drive
69th Annual Festival of Houses and Gardens
March 16 – April 24, 2016
Charleston, SC
Set amid the ambience of the city’s Old & Historic District, this series of award-winning tours and educational events showcase Charleston’s distinctive architecture, history, gardens and culture. The tours provide a rare opportunity for guests to go inside the private houses and gardens of some of America’s most beautiful historic residences. Proceeds benefit Historic Charleston Foundation’s historic preservation initiatives and educational programs.
Biltmore Blooms
March 19-May 26, 2016
The Biltmore Estate
If you thought that the Biltmore couldn’t get any more stunning…you should see it in bloom. See blossoming tulips, tropical plants and lavish flowers both around the grounds and inside of the picturesque estate. No matter when you go, something will always be in peak bloom. Stay tuned to their website for events throughout the season.
81st House and Garden Tour
April 8- April 9, 2016
Charleston, SC
Now in its 81st year, Charleston’s House and Garden Tour will be hosted on April 8 and April 9, 2016. Self guided tours will lead visitors through the historic homes and gardens surrounding newly renovated Colonial Lake Park, located in the heart of the peninsula. Tours will be greeted by garden docents who can identify local flora and may visit the refreshment station at Colonial Lake Park.
Cape Fear Garden Club Azalea Garden Tour
April 8- April 10
Wilmington, NC
Take a quick trip east to participate in one of longest-running and most popular garden tours in the south. The 2016 “Stepping Into Spring” Â Azalea Garden Tour includes a self-guided tour of 12 public and private gardens. See them all here.
Chapel Hill Spring Garden Tour
April 30-May 1
Chapel Hill, NC
The 11th Chapel Hill Spring Garden Tour celebrates over a century of diverse gardens in Chapel Hill. This year’s two day tour features seven public and private gardens including a 115 year-old farmhouse garden, a 1920s classical restoration and a 1970s five acre personal arboretum. Buy your tickets here.Â
