The Shadow
RICHMOND, Va. (VR) – Much more than a fundraiser, Historic Garden Week is a cherished
springtime tradition for both Garden Club of Virginia (GCV) members, who come together to
create it, and for over 24,000 people who attend the statewide event. Proceeds are used to
preserve and restore historic public gardens in Virginia.
Over 120 private homes and gardens will be part of 29 distinct tours taking place April 27
through May 3, 2025, showcasing communities both big and small across the Commonwealth.
Every year, the properties that are opened and the tours offered are different, making each
year a unique touring experience.
“Not only is HGW an opportunity to enjoy the beauty of Virginia’s homes and gardens, but it’s
also a significant economic driver to the state’s economy,” explains Virginia Gillock, Historic
Garden Week’s Chair. “After recently completing a third study with our consultants at Chmura,
we are thrilled to announce the cumulative economic impact over the last 55 years of this
fundraiser to be $679 million,” Gillock shares.
“Since 1920, the Garden Club of Virginia’s mission has been focused on conservation,
restoration, and the love of gardening,” says Kris Carbone, the GCV’s President. “We hope to
encourage future generations to build on this heritage,” Carbone continues. From recreating an
18th-century garden at Stratford Hall to restoring a walk and statuary at Belmont, the home
and studio of Impressionist painter Gari Melchers – a full diversity of gardens is represented in
the Garden Club of Virginia’s projects.
This annual event funds a historic landscape research fellowship program that is building a
comprehensive library of Virginia’s important gardens and landscapes too. Since its inception in
1996, it has documented 31 sites. “Our partner sites are at the center of how we deliver our
mission,” Carbone adds.
Visit VAGardenWeek.org for a complete schedule and descriptions of each of the 29 upcoming
tours and the Pressroom, with print-ready images and photo credits for featured properties.
