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36th Mothers Day Weekend Garden Fair
May 9th and 10th 2026 9:00 am - 4:00 pm
Garden Fair is the biggest fundraising event of the year for the Foundation of the State Arboretum, the nonprofit that supports Blandy Experimental Farm and the State Arboretum’s varied collections and public education programs. More than eight thousand people from near and far attend this beloved event each year to purchase the best selection of native plants, annuals, perennials, herbs, trees, shrubs, garden tools and nature-inspired gifts. Sixty-five plant, home and gift vendors have committed to Garden Fair 2026 including fun food trucks, environmental nonprofits, and a wine and beer vendor. Music, a children’s scavenger hunt and Arboretum tours will add to the festivity of this much anticipated Mother’s Day Weekend tradition.
And of course, all proceeds benefit the State Arboretum and Blandy's educational public programming and beautiful collections spread out over our expansive 712 acres.
Tickets for Garden Fair will go on sale April 1, 2026. Online tickets will be $12 per car, tickets at the gate will be $20 per car.
Preview Night Friday May 8th 5:00 pm - 7:30 pm
Members and Volunteers only enjoy an exclusive Preview Night each year on the Friday evening before the public Garden Fair event. Preview Night offers the opportunity to shop without crowds and be the first to shop for the very best plants, trees, shrubs, flowers and nature-inspired gifts. This ticketed event includes shopping, music, food and drink and a chance to mingle with other members and volunteers. Make sure your membership is up-to-date or become a new member today to receive your Preview Night invitation. Tickets for Preview Night will go on sale through a special member and volunteer only email invite on April 1, 2026. A limited number of tickets (250) will be sold this year at $35 per person.
2026 GARDEN FAIR SPONSORS
Event Sponsor
Preview Night Sponsor
Tent Sponsors
The Ellison Family
Supporting Sponsors
Shenandoah Valley Westminster Canterbury
Interested in getting your business in front of our loyal members, volunteers, vendors and 8,000+ Garden Fair visitors. Contact Melanie Mullinax at mmullinax@virginia.edu for more information on our generous sponsorship program.