Herbfest Is a Hit

May 16, 2010 | Story by: Lindsey Chester | Categories: Gardening

Flowers at Page-Walker Herbfest

Cary, NC- Herbfest was a big hit with the public on Saturday, with perfect weather for the first-ever event. I went early with my 10 year old daughter, Emma.

Sponsored by the Friends of Page Walker, the festival was held on the grounds of the  Page-Walker  Arts and History Center in their beautiful gardens with everything in bloom.

The idea was to bring together citizen gardeners, professional plant and herb growers, horticultural experts and homesteaders for education, inspiration, commerce and fun. The pleasure of growing things in your garden and serving them on your table is both edible and spiritual.

Local artists and vendors were invited to share their offerings in the big garden behind the old hotel. I was taken with a Karen Dillard, of Dillardville, who creates birdhouses using reclaimed wood, and another seller who made homemade natural soaps in her kitchen.

There were fun things for the kids including the Cary Teen Council volunteers who painted Emma’s face for free. Under a tent in the shade, a musical combo was playing some cool music.

I met Erin DiDiano, the president of the Herb Society of Wake County and Lisa Treadaway who owns The Little Herb House in Southern Wake. Lisa not only grows and sells herbs, but also teaches culinary and medicinal courses using the herbs from her garden.

Lisa Treadaway who owns the Herb House in Southern Wake County

It was a beautiful event on a perfect day. I learned a few things, bought something and came away with renewed enthusiasm for my garden. Everyone in the crowd seemed to share my feeling.

I’m looking forward to watching Herbfest grow next year!