With ticket sales reaching an all-time high and glowing feedback from guests, this year’s Gardener’s Garden Tour has become one of the most successful events ever hosted by the NOTL Horticultural Society
NEWS RELEASE
NIAGARA-ON-THE-LAKE HORTICULTURAL SOCIETY
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The Niagara-on-the-Lake (NOTL) Horticultural Society is thrilled to share the success of its 2025 Gardener’s Garden Tour, which welcomed more than 900 visitors to experience some of the town’s gardens in full summer bloom.
Generously offered by local homeowners and businesses, this year’s tour featured 9 beautiful and diverse gardens in addition to guided tours at Apple Hill Apothecary, McFarland House and The Pumphouse Arts Centre. Guests gave the event glowing reviews, with an average rating of 8.7 out of 10 for garden variety and quality, and an impressive 9.1 out of 10 likelihood of recommending the tour to others.
The tour’s success would not have been possible without the extraordinary team of volunteers — from garden sitters and greeters to the organizing committee. Ninety-nine percent of survey respondents said volunteers made their visit easier and more enjoyable. Time and again, guests mentioned how welcoming and knowledgeable the volunteers were. Their enthusiasm, along with the generosity of garden hosts, truly brought the event to life.
“Our volunteers are the heart of this event,” said Susan Jurbala, co-chair of the Garden Tour Committee. “From our garden sitters and greeters to the homeowners who so generously open their gates, this tour is a true reflection of community spirit. Their efforts made it possible for hundreds of guests to feel welcome, inspired, and connected.”
Ticket sales were the strongest yet, with 905 sold. Visitors came from near and far: 64 per cent were first-time attendees, and 94 per cent were from outside Niagara-on-the-Lake, making the Garden Tour an important draw for local tourism.
The event also raised funds that will support the Society’s ongoing community initiatives, including local beautification projects, scholarships, community outreach and public education programs.
“This tour is about more than just beautiful gardens—it’s about building connections, sharing knowledge, and supporting horticulture in Niagara-on-the-Lake,” added Sandra Stokes, co-chair of the Garden Tour Committee. “We’re proud that most of the proceeds from this record-breaking year will go directly back into the community we serve.”
The NOTL Horticultural Society extends heartfelt thanks to every volunteer, homeowner, and supporter who made the day possible. A very special appreciation is extended to our sponsors, whose generosity made this event possible through financial support and in-kind donations. Their commitment helps sustain the Garden Tour year after year and we are very grateful.
Looking ahead to 2026, we’re inviting homeowners to consider opening their gardens for next year’s tour. Every garden has a story to tell — whether it’s a cottage-style plot, a native plant haven, or a carefully tended backyard retreat. Large or small, formal or casual, each garden inspires visitors in its own way. If you’ve ever thought about sharing your garden, we’d love to hear from you.
See The Local’s photo gallery of the garden tour here.
For more information about the NOTL Horticultural Society, volunteering opportunities, or how to nominate your garden for the 2026 Gardener’s Garden Tour, please send an email.
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