Experience New England’s Largest Lilac Collection at the 2025 McLaughlin Garden Lilac Festival
- Gerry Caron
- May 2
- 4 min read
The 2025 McLaughlin Garden Lilac Festival: A Blooming Gem in South Paris, Maine
Welcome to the 2025 McLaughlin Garden Lilac Festival located in South Paris, Maine, a historic site listed on the National Register of Historic Places as a cultural landscape. The McLaughlin Foundation has been proud to steward Bernard McLaughlin’s renowned 1840s farmstead, gardens, and public green space for more than 25 years.
Home to one of the largest collections of lilacs in New England, visitors from far and near come to the McLaughlin Garden in May to delight in the vibrant colors and fragrances of unique heirloom lilacs in bloom. Throughout the summer season, visitors to the gardens continue to enjoy our extensive collections of hostas, daylilies, astilbes, iris, phlox, wildflowers, and ferns. The garden is a haven for birds and pollinators, as well as a place of beauty, peace, and inspiration for all who visit.
When the property was planted in 1936, the land had little more to offer than fallow fields and sandy soil. Almost a century later, the over two acres of perennial plantings at McLaughlin Garden encompass a unique blend of different garden types— from shady woodlands bursting with spring color to swaying wildflower meadows. Planted with multiple seasons of interest in mind, the gardens will always have something to offer, no matter which time of year you choose to visit.
2025 Lilac Festival Highlights
Dates: May 23 – May 26, 2025
Hours: 10:00 AM – 4:00 PM Daily
Admission: $5 per person
Location: McLaughlin Garden & Homestead, South Paris, Maine
Celebrate peak lilac bloom season with:
Daily Guided Lilac Care Tours at 11:00 AM with the Garden’s expert horticulturist
A scent-sational self-guided stroll through blooming lilacs and perennial beds
Family-friendly activities throughout the gardens
A curated native and unique plant sale
Gift shop open daily with garden gifts, books, and botanically inspired items
The return of our handmade bag raffle featuring exclusive items created by local artisans
Why Attend the Lilac Festival?
The McLaughlin Garden’s Lilac Festival isn’t just a celebration of spring—it’s an immersive experience that blends history, horticulture, and community. Whether you're a seasoned gardener, casual flower lover, or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, this annual event offers:
🌸 A Rare Lilac Collection:
With 125 varieties and over 200 lilac trees, this is one of New England’s largest and most diverse lilac displays.
🎨 A Beautiful Historic Setting: Explore a garden listed on the National Register of Historic Places, nurtured with care since 1936.
🌿 Inspiration for All Seasons: Discover gardens thoughtfully planted for year-round interest, from vibrant wildflower meadows to shady woodland paths
.👨👩👧 Family-Friendly Fun: Enjoy activities, curated plant sales, and the gift shop—all in a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
🎟️ Affordable Enjoyment: At just $5 per person, it’s one of Maine’s best-value garden events.
🎁 Unique Raffle Prizes: Enter to win handmade, garden-inspired items created by local artisans and supporters.
Whether you're looking to learn more about lilac care, take in unforgettable spring scenery, or support a nonprofit preserving Maine’s garden heritage, the Lilac Festival is a perfect reason to visit.
A Legacy of Beauty and Discovery
Managed by the nonprofit McLaughlin Foundation, the Garden is more than a horticultural showcase—it is a cultural anchor and dynamic sanctuary dedicated to discovery, creativity, and connection. Thousands of visitors return year after year to wander through the seasonal displays of hosta, astilbe, iris, phlox, daylilies, and native ferns, each contributing to a rich tapestry of texture and color.
Whether you're a plant enthusiast, a family looking for a peaceful day out, or a traveler exploring Maine’s scenic byways, McLaughlin Garden & Homestead is a must-visit destination—especially in lilac season.
Plan Your Visit
Learn more about the garden, donate, or plan your trip:
📍97 Main Street, South Paris, ME 04281
What to Do in Moosehead Lake Region & Beyond
Want more information? Check out our Moosehead News for the latest updates on seasonal events, local news, and detailed guides to make the most of your visit to the Moosehead Lake region.
ATV/Snowmobile:: Explore thousands of miles of pristine wilderness.
Boating/Canoeing/Kayaking: Explore the lake's serene waters.
Camping/Swimming: Find the best campsites for a wilderness retreat.
Fishing/Hunting: Discover prime fishing spots.
Hiking/Biking: Explore the wilderness.
Skiing/Sledding/Snowboarding/Snowshoeing: Miles of cross-country ski trails for those seeking a quieter adventure. Ski and snowboard rentals, plus lessons for beginners.
Local Attractions/Sightseeing: Learn about must-see sights in the region.
Stay updated with the latest happenings and news in the Moosehead Lake region. Learn more about what to do and where to go in the Moosehead Lake area and beyond.
Perfect Accommodation for Your Visit
Look no further for the perfect accommodation during your visit to the Monson, Shirley, Greenville, Rockwood, and Jackman areas of Maine. Moose River Lookout offers an idyllic retreat nestled along the serene Moose River at the base of the majestic Blue Ridge Mountains in Rockwood.
Ultimate Outdoor Getaway
With direct backyard access to Maine's Interconnected Trail System (ITS66) and a private dock on the river, adventure awaits right outside your door. Whether you're into hiking, golfing, boating, fishing, hunting, skiing, or snowmobiling, you'll find it all just steps away from our doorstep.
Book Your Stay
Experience the ultimate outdoor getaway in the heart of Maine's natural beauty. For inquiries or to make a reservation, please don't hesitate to contact us. We look forward to welcoming you to Moose River Lookout, lodging Rockwood Maine, on Moose River with access to Moosehead Lake and Mt. Kineo!
Phone: 800-544-0300
Email: mooseriverlookout@gmail.com
Address: 4054 Rockwood Rd Rockwood, ME 04478
Website: Moose River Lookout
Planted with multiple seasons of interest in mind, the gardens will always have something to offer, no matter which time of year you choose to visit.
