By: Sarina Vasta
Posted In: News
Photo credit: Sarina Vasta
Ballard Park’s Illuminated Gardens
This past weekend celebrated the fifth annual Illuminated Garden held at Ballard Park. Located right off of Ruggles Avenue, this special event is one of many that the Friends of Ballard Park hold each year. Another big event is the annual Halloween Pumpkin Tour. Over 500 people came to see the luminaries, Christmas lights and tiki torches light the park on Friday night alone.
Colleen McGrath, among others, has played a huge role in preparing this brilliant weekend. She has served as the executive director of Friends of Ballard Park since 2001. When asked why they hold an event in the middle of February, she replied by saying that they (Friends of Ballard Park) hold events around major holidays, such as the Halloween Pumpkin Tour, and wanted something to bring the community together in the winter months also. Also held at Ballard Park is “Movies on the Rocks.” First occurring in 2006, this event invites the community to bring blankets and lawn chairs for a fun night of movie watching on the grass and laying under the summer stars. Friends of Ballard Park also host a Battle of the Bands for local groups to challenge each other in the middle of summer. Seven bands were cheered on by over 500 people. Friends of Ballard Park try to get the whole Newport community involved. The Illuminated Garden is quite the sight to see. The luminaries light the path along with a few tiki torches guiding the tour goers into a huge opening where each exhibit has its own theme and space. All the lights shine brilliantly against the night sky, making this a fun adventure for everyone. This event is completely family friendly. For more information about upcoming events, please visit www.ballardpark.org.
