You’re Invited to the 23rd Annual Rosy Day Out Festival

June 21st, 9-6

 

We are thrilled to welcome you to our 23rd Annual Rosy Day Out Festival—a long-standing and beloved tradition celebrating the timeless beauty of garden roses. Held in the heart of where it all began, our charming Schoolhouse Gardens, this special event brings together rose enthusiasts, curious gardeners, and nature lovers for a full day of floral inspiration and community joy.

Whether you’re a seasoned horticulturist, an avid home gardener, or simply someone who enjoys the elegance and fragrance of roses, Rosy Day Out offers something to captivate every guest.


A Full Day of Garden Inspiration and Delight

 

Community Rose Display & Competition
Marvel at an array of spectacular roses submitted by local gardeners, or join in by entering your own blooms. From hybrid teas to fragrant climbers, the variety on display will be sure to impress and inspire.

Ice Cream Social | 2 p.m.
Take a midday break with refreshing, locally crafted rose ice cream from Mallards in Bellingham. It’s the perfect opportunity to relax in the shade and enjoy the garden’s ambiance.

Expert Keynote Presentations
Throughout the day, you’ll hear from noted horticultural experts who will share invaluable advice on rose care, garden design, and companion planting. Gain insights that can help your garden thrive all season long.

Guided Walking Tour
Enjoy a peaceful and informative stroll through the Schoolhouse Gardens led by garden expert Marianne Binetti. Discover hidden gems in the landscape and learn about the thoughtful design and care that goes into each rose bed.

Volunteer Rose Advisors
Have questions about your roses at home? Our knowledgeable volunteer advisors will be available to answer your gardening questions and offer practical, hands-on advice.

Additional Activities and Surprises
From garden photography opportunities to local vendor booths and informal Q&A sessions, the day is packed with ways to explore, learn, and enjoy.

 


Enter Your Garden Roses

 

Have a rose you’re especially proud of? Submit it for our Community Rose Display & Competition. Entries will be considered for the following categories:

  • Best in Show

  • Best Fragrant Rose

  • Best Floral Display (featuring perennials with roses)

Winners will be announced during the 3:00 p.m. presentation under the main tent. Each winner will receive a $50 gift certificate.
Entries will be accepted between 9:00 and 10:30 a.m. on the morning of the event.

pink roses


Schedule of Rosy Day Out Events

 

9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. | Self-Guided Tour of the Schoolhouse Rose Garden
Explore the garden at your own pace and soak in the stunning variety of roses.

9:00 a.m. – 10:30 a.m. | Rose Competition Entry Submissions
Bring your blooms early to be included in the day’s display and judging.

9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. | Community Rose Display
View the entries and celebrate the gardening talent in our community.

10:30 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. | Volunteer Rose Advisors Available
Ask questions, get tips, and chat with our friendly garden volunteers.

11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. | Garden Walking Tour with Marianne Binetti
Take a guided walk through the gardens and learn from one of the Northwest’s leading garden educators.

1:00 p.m. – 2:00 p.m. | “All About Roses” with NitaJo Rountree
Learn about rose selection, care, and maintenance from a trusted expert.

2:00 p.m. | Rose Ice Cream Social
Relax, refresh, and enjoy a sweet treat in the garden.

3:00 p.m. – 4:00 p.m. | “Favorite Roses and Rose Companions” with Ciscoe Morris & John Christianson
Two beloved voices in Northwest gardening share their personal favorites and garden wisdom.


We hope you’ll join us for this joyful celebration of roses, gardens, and community. Whether you stay for the full day or just drop in for a few hours, you’ll leave inspired by the beauty that blooms when passionate gardeners come together.