Events


Upcoming Events

Historic Gardens Day

Enjoy this annual state-wide celebration of Connecticut’s 14 stunning historic gardens. Member sites host special events and activities celebrating their gardens.

 



Choose the gardens in your own backyard, or plan a day trip to see those further afield. See cthistoricgardens.org for information about the Day’s activities at each member site.

 



Here at Harkness Memorial State Park (275 Great Neck Rd. Waterford, CT): Tours of the gardens designed by America’s first female landscape architect, Beatrix Farrand, and an overview of the history of the former Harkness Estate Eolia will be presented free of charge from 10:00am to 2:00pm by Park Staff and Friends of Harkness volunteers. Also, tours of the Harkness Mansion will be available from 10AM to 2PM – last tour begins at 1:30. for a suggested donation. After your garden and Mansion tours, please visit the Friends’ Gift Shop at the Mansion, open from 11:30am to 3:30pm.

 


All proceeds from Mansion tours and Gift Shop sales support Friends’ programs at the Park.

 


Bring a picnic and after your tours enjoy the spectacular views of Long Island Sound from the sweeping Great Lawn.

Press Release: Winner of 2025 Poster Contest

Plant Sale

Annual Plant Sale will be held in the Carriage House Courtyard on

May 18 from 9AM to 1PM

 



It will be “in person” only

 


Plants from the Plant Group, Heliotrope, Camp Harkness and Harkness gardens.

Members’ Gatherings

Friends of Harkness

Membership Picnic

July 8th, 2024

5:30 PM – $10 per person – Members only

Hot dogs, hamburgers, veggie burgers, rolls (gluten free available) provided by FOH. Members are asked to bring a side dish. A to M – Appetizers   N to Z – Salads/Side Dishes. Dessert will be provided.

REGISTER

Friends of Harkness Membership Picnic 2023