Garden Gatherings
Based on the overwhelming popularity of our annual Featured Gardens events, Dogwood Arts is proud to introduce a brand-new series: Garden Gatherings. We are bringing you exclusive, behind-the-gates access to private gardens all across Knoxville.
These hidden gems are just as special as our featured gardens, but because they don't have the parking capacity to accommodate hundreds of visitors, we’ve tailored these events to be smaller gatherings with a much more intimate feel.
Each gathering will have a limited number of tickets available. Because the demand to visit Knoxville's beautiful private gardens is so high, you will want to grab yours the moment they go on sale!
These fundraising events directly support the Dogwood Arts Trails & Gardens program.
The next Garden Gathering is coming up on Tuesday, September 15th from 4:30-7:30PM
The Private Garden of Dayton Hanford
Heart of Bearden
September 15th: Tacos & Treasures
Tickets on sale Friday, July 31st
Step into a world where history, nature, and culinary delights intertwine.
Join us for "Tacos & Treasures," an exclusive evening set in a spectacular private garden in the heart of Bearden. Hosted at the home of Dayton Hanford—former builder and co-owner of Knoxville’s premier architectural salvage shop, Architectural Antics—this is a rare opportunity to explore a meticulously crafted sanctuary where the past comes alive.
Drawing on his years of building expertise and an unparalleled eye for collecting, Dayton has reserved his most prized, hand-picked salvage pieces to create this one-of-a-kind landscape. Your journey begins as you step through magnificent, antique gates from Egypt. From there, meandering pathways will guide you past stunning artwork with storied histories and fascinating curiosities waiting around every bend.
This living museum perfectly balances historical architectural wonders with Dayton's deep love and showcase of native plants. It is a mesmerizing mix of raw history and natural beauty guaranteed to astound you.
Come savor some small plate tacos and refreshing margaritas while soaking in the ambiance of the most unique place you will visit this year!
Event Details: $75 non-refundable ticket - rain or shine
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Date: Tuesday, September 15
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Time: 4:30 PM – 7:30 PM
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Location: The Private Garden of Dayton Hanford (Heart of Bearden)
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Tickets & Transportation: To preserve the intimacy of the garden, timed tickets are available for this event. Guests will be conveniently shuttled to the secret garden location and returned to their vehicles afterward.
June 27th: A Riverfront Retreat
Step into a picturesque mid-June morning where lush landscapes and refreshing waters meet. Join us for an exclusive, sun-dappled gathering on a spectacular private farm.
The Experience:
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Peak-Bloom Beauty: Begin your morning overlooking a serene pond and a spacious orchard, perfectly framed by the property's stunning, peak-bloom hydrangeas.
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Sips & Bites: Mingle with fellow garden lovers while enjoying a curated selection of delicious daytime bites, perfectly paired with free-flowing mimosas and our signature garden-fresh cocktails.
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Riverfront Relaxation: Once we’ve sipped, snacked, and soaked in the hilltop views, we’ll take a leisurely stroll down to the scenic banks of the French Broad River. Feel free to kick off your shoes, dip your toes in the cool, rushing water, and embrace the ultimate relaxing summer experience.
Space is highly limited for this perfect blend of brilliant blooms, bubbly, and breathtaking riverfront views.