New England is awash in hydrangeas this summer, setting the stage for the eagerly anticipated Cape Cod Hydrangea Festival. The event offers enthusiasts a rare chance to explore over 100 private gardens adorned with these stunning blooms, marking a year of exceptional floral displays.
According to C.L. Fornari, co-founder of the festival alongside the Cape Cod Chamber of Commerce, this season’s hydrangeas are particularly remarkable. She attributes their abundance to favorable weather conditions from the previous year.
“The wet summer and mild temperatures we experienced last year, followed by a gentle winter, have led to blooms that are truly spectacular,” Fornari explained.
Hydrangeas, renowned for their voluminous clusters of blue, pink, or white blossoms, have become synonymous with Cape Cod’s landscape. While ubiquitous across the region, dedicated gardens showcase an extensive array of hydrangea varieties.
Among these, the Cape Cod Hydrangea Society Display Garden stands out, boasting more than 155 distinct types, many exclusive to this location.
Admission to each garden tour is priced at $5 per person, with tours running from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Proceeds directly support local nonprofits, including museums, libraries, and food pantries.
“We typically raise between $90,000 and $100,000 annually for these organizations,” noted Fornari, optimistic that this year’s expanded lineup of 100 gardens may surpass the $100,000 mark.
Celebrating its milestone 10th year, the festival offers a diverse program of workshops and lectures led by leading horticulturists. Attendees can learn essential techniques for nurturing hydrangeas and other plants, enhancing their gardening skills.
The Cape Cod Hydrangea Festival continues until Sunday, July 14, promising a captivating blend of natural beauty and educational opportunities for flower enthusiasts and gardening novices alike.
