Watch now! Museum of Old Newbury: 41st Annual “Virtual” Garden Tour

This year we are delighted to bring to you a series of "virtual" garden tours for your enjoyment. Please save the date, as we are already looking forward to the 42nd Annual Garden Tour, set for June 12 & 13, 2021.

These four online garden episodes are free of charge, but donations are always welcome and greatly appreciated.

Watch your inbox for more information on a special holiday DVD (available for purchase) that will include the first four tours, as well as a new, in-depth look at the evolution of the Cushing House Garden.

A special thanks to photographers (and board members) Dan Fionte and Bob Watts for capturing the essence of each garden without being repetitive; and a big nod to voiceover artist, Bill Hallett, whose dulcet tones lent each installment an air of elegance and style.

(Donate here: https://www.newburyhistory.org/take-5)

A Garden Tour by any other Name is Just as Sweet

"COVID-19 has impacted how we will deliver the Museum of Old Newbury's 41st Annual Garden Tour, but it can't dampen our enthusiasm," explains 2020 tour co-chair, Sherry Evans.

Even with social distancing mandates relaxing, many folks are still leery of large crowds and gatherings. Susan Edwards, executive director of the museum, explains, "We thought long and hard on the best way to share the beautiful gardens of this year's participants. When we realized the internet could work, four owners stepped forward to give us access."

All segments will be offered free of charge and available to anyone with access to the internet. Follow us on social media (Facebook, Twitter & Instagram) or visit our website on the dates noted to watch.

Transforming a primarily sensory event into a digital experience is challenging, but we hope viewers will enjoy it. Each segment will feature a combination of photographic stills and videos. Bill Hallett, the voice of radio, will serve as narrator, explaining the images provided by professional photographers (and Museum of Old Newbury Board Members), Bob Watts and Dan Fionte.

Colleen Turner Secino, director of each segment, shares, "We were able to gather content using minimal volunteers, limiting potential exposure and with supreme concern for proper social distancing directives and the safety of all involved."

Each garden will be filmed during peak bloom. The first installment will feature a lush garden in Rowley with a particular appreciation for composting; the second two Newburyport properties will highlight backyard retreats; and the final installment will take us from garden-to-table.

We will be back next year! Save the date for the 42nd Annual Museum of Old Newbury Garden Tour: Saturday & Sunday, June 12 & 13, 2021!