New Orleans Calendar of Events

The Secret Gardens Tour

New Orleans has wonderful private gardens filled with azaleas, camellias, sweet olive trees, jasmine and many more. For most of the year these gardens are private and not accessible to the public. But every Spring many of these gardens are open to the public for touring.

More Than Just A Tour

Although touring the gardens is the highlight of the weekend, there's a lot more to enjoy. Complimentary music is provided by local talent on Saturday. The garden boutique, Secret

Treasures will be open offering local and garden-related merchandise for sale from hometown vendors, as well as the official and highly collectible 2009 The Secret Gardens Tour poster with artwork by New Orleans artist, Miriam Hirsch on both days.

Box Lunches and Silent Bids

New this year will be the ability to purchase boxed lunches and place silent bids in an auction of high-end garden-related goods.

When and Where

In 2009 the Secret Garden Tour will be on Friday, March 20 and Saturday, March 21, the first day of spring. This year’s gardens are along St. Charles Avenue, Octavia Street and Arabella Street. Proceeds will go to a non-profit organization to benefit victims of brain injuries.

Guided or Self-Guided Tours

You have the option of taking a guided tour with garden design experts who will take groups of 10 or less through the gardens on scheduled tours Friday, March 20, starting at 9 a.m. These tours will be limited and must be purchased in advance, online for $60 each, and are expected to sell out quickly.

Or you may choose to tour the gardens at your own pace on Saturday, March 21. Tickets for Saturday can be purchased in advance at a discounted price of $20 or, on the day of the tour for $25.

Tickets and Information

Tickets can be purchased at 6000 St. Charles Avenue at the corner of State Street or online at the Secret Garden website.