Dig out your sun hat, gloves and hand trowel, because the 37th annual Spring Garden Fair is just around the corner at the Clackamas County Fairgrounds and Event Center, bringing together more than 100 garden vendors for a weekend of shopping, learning and family fun.
Visitors to the fair will find a wide selection of plants suited for growing in the Pacific Northwest, including the best in annuals and perennials from nursery vendors. The fair will also host vendors specializing in garden tools and other needs, as well as craftsmen offering unique pieces of garden art.
The fair will feature convenient shopping options, including plant taxis and a free plant check. Visitors can also seek advice or inspiration from the Ask a Master Gardener booth or 10-Minute University in Clackamas Hall.
The new plant introductions section will showcase the latest and greatest in plants and containers, with a silent auction and a potting station where purchases can be potted up for free with potting soil provided. The garden fair raffle will offer hundreds of prizes throughout the day.
For those looking to learn more, the exhibition center in 4-H Hall will provide plenty of great information from local organizations, free pH soil testing, and free children’s activities for young gardeners.
The popular Good Thyme Food Court will be set up on the main lawn for lunch or just a snack. On Sunday, the Portland Iris Society will be in its usual spot in the Main Pavilion.
The Spring Garden Fair will be held from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday, May 6, and from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday, May 7. Admission is $5, and parking is free. And, for the first time, ticket presales and two-day passes are available for $9.
Officials ask visitors to please note that the fairgrounds are a smoke-free facility and no pets are allowed, with the exception of service dogs.
The Clackamas County Master Gardener Association is organizing the event in collaboration with and in support of the Oregon State University Extension Service Master Gardener Program.
Organizers say the fair promises to be a great opportunity for gardening enthusiasts and families to come together, enjoy the beautiful scenery and pick up some useful tips and tools. More information can be found on the fair’s website at springgardenfair.org and Facebook page.