#HiddenGardenTour #TourIsBack #HiddenGarden #ProspectPark #SpotlightNews
By DUNCAN CRARY
[email protected]
TROY — “Most people only ever see the facades of our brownstones from the streets,” said Peter Grimm, president of the Friends of Prospect Park. “This is a special kind of event that invites visitors into the hidden, green spaces of our city. It really showcases the humanity and livability of Troy.”
Now in its 19th year, the Hidden Garden Tour is a fundraiser to benefit Troy’s Prospect Park held rain or shine on Thursday, May 24 from 4 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. In previous years, the event attracted more than 700 tour goers. This year attendance is expected to be even higher because of the growing excitement and interest in Troy. But organizers say there’s always plenty of room for more!
The self-guided walking tour features approx. 30 private backyard gardens in the Historic Sage, Washington Park and adjoining neighborhoods of downtown Troy.
While most of the gardens are approximately the same size, about 20 feet by 30 feet, they vary greatly in style. Some of the gardens feature charming pathways, fountains and pools. Some are filled with flowers, while others have more plants and vegetables — all lovingly tended by gardeners of all skill levels.
“Two people actually bought houses in downtown Troy as a result of this event, because they could see what was possible,” said event organizer Nina Pattison.
Pets, Strollers, Etc.
The gardens are small and may include stairs and unpaved or cobblestone paths. Dogs are welcome in Troy’s neighborhoods, but not directly in the gardens.
Parking
Free event parking is provided at the Russell Sage College lot, located at First and Division streets. Additional free parking is available in lots farther south on First Street.
Benefit For Prospect Park
The Hidden Garden Tour is presented by The Friends of Prospect Park, a 501(c)3 nonprofit. All proceeds from the Hidden Garden Tour benefit ongoing improvement projects in Prospect Park, located on Congress Street in Troy.
Since 1996, The Friends of Prospect Park have worked to enhance enjoyment of the Park through annual brush-ups, playground improvements, updated signage, increased musical programming, bulb and tree plantings, new benches, with further upgrades planned.
Relief At Carmen’s Cafe
The Hidden Garden Tour map is also a ticket for free light refreshments and a restroom stop, from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m., at Carmen’s Cafe, located at 198 First St.
Later at Carmen’s, there will be a fundraising Prix Fixe menu dinner benefiting The Friends of Prospect Park, from 6 to 8:30 p.m. For dinner reservations at Carmen’s call (518) 326-2064.
Admission to the Hidden Garden Tour is $10. Tickets are available in advance online at troygarden.brownpapertickets.com/ or for cash only on the day of at the check-in-table at the Russell Sage College Parking lot.
For information regarding the Hidden Garden Tour, call Rhe Potenza at (518) 424-5303 or email Nina at [email protected].
