Front Royal Beautification Committee Gears Up for First Annual Garden Tour

The Beautification Committee of Front Royal is preparing for its highly anticipated first Garden Tour. The Royal Examiner welcomed Lisa Schwartz and Taffy Mabe from the committee to discuss this vibrant community event. The tour aims to showcase local gardens and inspire residents to beautify their properties.

Event Details:

• Date: June 15, 2024
• Time: 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.
• Starting Location: Cloud Street, Front Royal
• Cost: Free (Donations to the Beautification Committee are welcome)

The garden tour and challenge idea was conceived during the winter, with applications open from February through mid-April. Despite a slow start, an extended application period resulted in 13 beautiful gardens featured on the tour.

Participants can pick up maps and voting slips for the People’s Choice Award at the starting location on Cloud Street. Garden Club members and Master Gardeners will judge the gardens on June 14, with the public tour following the next day.

“This tour is a wonderful opportunity for garden enthusiasts to meet, share ideas, and appreciate their neighbors’ hard work,” said Taffy Mabe. “We hope to inspire more people to improve their properties and enjoy the beauty of gardening.”

In addition to the garden tour, the Beautification Committee has been busy with other projects, such as the stunning petunia baskets that adorn Main Street. The committee works closely with the town, sharing costs and securing sponsors for the baskets. This year, new self-watering baskets were introduced, reducing the watering frequency and enhancing the vibrancy of the flowers.

“We’ve received numerous compliments from tourists and locals about the baskets,” said Lisa Schwartz. “Sponsorships are crucial to maintaining these displays, and we’re grateful for the community’s support.”

Each basket sponsorship costs $100, and sponsors are recognized with a weatherproof tag displaying their name or business logo. The tags hang on chains below the baskets, adding a personal touch and encouraging community pride.

As the first garden tour approaches, the committee members are optimistic about the turnout and future participation. They hope this event will grow and become a beloved tradition in Front Royal.

“We’re excited to see people inspired by the gardens and to hopefully have even more participants next year,” Mabe added.

For more information about the garden tour and sponsorship opportunities, visit the Front Royal Beautification Committee’s Facebook page.

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