By Andi Anderson

The University of Illinois Extension Master Gardeners are celebrating 50 years of community service and gardening education. Throughout spring and summer, regional events across Illinois will offer hands-on learning, gardening workshops, and community-based activities for all experience levels.

The Golden Garden Day celebrations will take place in St. Clair, Champaign, Rock Island, Henry, and Peoria counties. These events aim to engage local communities, teach sustainable practices, and highlight the contributions of Master Gardeners.

In St. Clair County, participants will explore aquaponics, agriculture, and food system innovations at the Jackie Joyner-Kersee Center. The event will also include a memorial tree planting and stormwater management training.

Champaign County’s event features a walk focused on pollinators and native trees, along with workshops on moss ball terrariums and modern garden design using innovative technology.

Rock Island’s celebration at Floreciente Community Garden includes a food drive, vegetable garden demos, tree walks, and pollinator garden tours. The day ends with a landscape tour of the historic Hauberg Estate.

Henry County will showcase native plants, downtown garden beds, butterfly gardens, and soil health demonstrations to promote biodiversity and environmental care.

Peoria’s Wildlife Prairie Park event offers nature walks, wildlife viewing, and a visit to OSF St. Ann's Garden of Hope. Participants will also learn about other local Master Gardener projects.

According to State Master Gardener Coordinator Candice Anderson, “These events not only celebrate our 50-year legacy, but also enhance gardening knowledge for everyone.”

The Master Gardener program supports local food systems, pollinator health, and educational outreach. With over 2,000 active volunteers, their mission remains focused on helping others learn to grow while eliminating barriers to participation.

For more event details or accessibility requests, visit the anniversary website: go.illinois.edu/MGImpact.

Photo Credit: pexels-greta-hoffman