Cape Cod is known for the beautiful and bountiful pink, white, and blue hydrangeas that flourish in gardens across the region. To celebrate these iconic blooms, the Cape Cod Hydrangea Festival returns for the 5th year, happening July 12-21, 2019. As in past years, the ten-day fest will kickoff with a pre-opening night party hosted by Cape Cod Beer at their Phinney Lane headquarters. This free event is open to the public from 6:30-8:30 PM on Thursday, July 11 where they will be serving up their eponymous hydrangea-inspired cocktail.
This year other venues have bellied up to the bar to create their own tempting hydrangea cocktails. Collectively known as the Cape Cod Hydrangea Cocktail Trail, you can sample everything from Blushing Hydrangeas to Blue Electric Hydrangea Lemonade and more at participating bars, restaurants, package stores, a vineyard, and of course at Cape Cod Beer who spear-headed the unique idea.
Garden tours are one of the highlights of the festival. Homeowners, who design and maintain their own private gardens, throw open their garden gates for tours from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM on specific days throughout the festival. It’s $5.00 per person per garden to participate. However, the tours are only part of the fun.
On Friday, July 12 from 8:30 AM to 12:30 PM Heritage Museums and Gardens will co-host with the Cape Cod Hydrangea Society to present Hydrangea University. This is a rare opportunity to hear from expert speakers, tour the Hydrangea Society’s display garden and the North American Hydrangea test garden, plus go home with a hydrangea plant and other goodies tucked in a swag bag. Cost to attend is $55.00 per person and advanced registration is required as space is limited.
Dozens of other tours, talks, and demonstrations will take place through the 10-day event. For details visit the Cape Cod Hydrangea Festival page on the Cape Cod Chamber of Commerce website.
What is your favorite type of hydrangea? Whether you’re a fan of mophead or lace cap hydrangeas, traditional blue or pink blooms, be sure to book your stay with Whalewalk Inn & Spa, a romantic & secluded bed and breakfast, while you enjoy all the festival highlights!