The 5th Annual Penny McHenry Hydrangea Festival continues the dream that began in 2008. The Penny McHenry Hydrangea Festival is a two-day event named in honor of Penny McHenry, American Hydrangea Society founder. This year the flower show title is "The Royals" adapted from the Royal Majestic Series of Hydrangeas which has four cultivars, Queen of Pearls, Princess Lace, Midnight Duchess and Mini-Penny Hydrangea. In celebration of the festival, Douglas County homes and businesses decorate their property with hydrangeas and ribbons. Kicking off the weekend is the juried artist market with vendors offering for sale original art, jewelry, antiques, plants and more. You will also enjoy music and entertainment while strolling through this event June 2 – 3 from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. The Garden Tour will be featuring nationally recognized gardens for $25 a ticket. Shuttles will be provided for daytime downtown tours.
The festival is continued through out the month at the new Douglas County Courthouse on the 3rd floor with an exhibition featuring a diversity of artist from the Red Cockerill Gallery. The exhibition opens with free admission on June 2nd and will be on exhibit until June 27th from 9 a.m.– 5 p.m. This year’s selection emphasizes the garden tour of the Hydrangea festival in a wide variety of artistic mediums. Local artist, Judith Bowers and renowned artist Ann Cockerill from Austell will be displaying a powerful selection of landscapes from the nationally acclaimed garden of Susanne Hudson. Emily Lightner and Cheryl Mcauliffe, another Douglas County artist will be featuring the simplicity of floral designs. Temple-based Beverly Culver exhibits the composure of a tranquil Spring house and garden; Dorrotya Kern from Acworth exhibits on the 2nd floor lobby a joyous color-filled lilies. From Cobb County Linda Shankles and Ronny Martine will be exhibiting bright and brilliant paintings, composed with charming colors and echoing curves. Local artist from Powder Springs Suzanne Collins and Susan Smith features a vibrant and peaceful scene of florals. Hiram-based Judy Cooper and local artist, Gail Newman share their love with the placidity of flowers. Another favorite, from Carole Umphrey portrays the stillness and serenity of hydrangea watercolors. With the festival market, garden tours, national award-winning flower show, exquisite tea, food, and entertainment, the Hydrangea Festival is an event not to be missed.
