Each year in the spring, Hulda Klager Lilac Gardens host Lilac Days to celebrate the beauty of lilacs in bloom.
The Hulda Klager Lilac Gardens is a national historic site located in the southwest Washington town of Woodland. A restored Victorian farmhouse sits inside the entrance, and the surrounding gardens offer an exquisite example of a turn-of-the-century setting with many types of flowering beds, an arboretum of unique trees and, of course, lilacs. While the tranquil, historic setting and diversity of the gardens is worth noting, it’s the beautiful lilac trees that draw visitors from near and far. Even before you enter the gardens through the gatehouse, the heady, sweet aroma greets you.
Many of the over 90 species of lilacs were planted by Hulda, a famed lilac developer, or her parents beginning in the late 1800s. Others were planted by the devoted volunteers that work hundreds of hours each year.
Hulda’s Victorian Farmhouse was built in 1889 by her parents, Godfried and Wilhelmina Thiel. Later, Hulda and her husband, Frank Klager, owned the homestead. Hulda lived there until she died in 1960. A walk through the home is a journey back in time. Many of the original furnishings and Klager family memorabilia are displayed. Each year, new exhibits of handmade quilts and artwork, antiques and collectables are presented in the home. Hulda’s home (not wheelchair accessible) is only open to visitors during Lilac Days, and has been closed altogether since the COVID outbreak. The accessible potting shed behind the house has a video and photos of the home for all visitors to enjoy.
People from around the world stroll through the gardens. Visitors also check out the Gift Shop and can buy their favorite lilacs. Lilac plants are sold only during Lilac Days.
Although a late-season heavy, wet snowstorm damaged a number of the plants this year, Lilac Days goes on. The gardens are open daily 10am to 4pm, year-round. During Lilac Days – this year April 16 through Mother’s Day – the gate fee is $5. You can get information about current garden conditions by visiting Today in the Gardens – Hulda Klager Lilac Gardens.
For more information and directions, visit lilacgardens.com
The information for this article is from the Hulda Klager lilac gardens website,lilacgardens.com
