TRADE SECRETS™ GARDEN EVENT COMES TO LIME ROCK PARK  

Dubbed the “Northeast’s Garden Event of the Year,” Trade Secrets™ Returns This Year to a New Venue  

Lakeville, CT, March 16, 2022 — It’s that time of year again to plan your annual trek to the Litchfield Hills of CT for Trade Secrets™ on Saturday, May 14, and Sunday, May 15, 2022. Considered the Northeast’s “garden event of the year,” the rare plant and garden antiques sale, founded by Bunny Williams, is the annual fundraiser for the not-for-profit Women’s Support Services (WSS) of the Northwest Corner, offering support to victims of domestic violence.  

For the past twenty-plus years, thousands of horticulturalists, garden, and antique lovers alike have traveled to Connecticut to experience the wonders of Trade Secrets™. This year, Trade Secrets™ is moving to Lime Rock Park, nestled in the foothills of the Berkshire Mountains in northwest Connecticut. Lime Rock Park is a historic road racing circuit set in a natural amphitheater in the northwest corner. The 300 acres of lush greenery create a true park-like atmosphere for its visitors. In addition, the track is celebrating 65 years of racing in 2022. 

“We are excited about the move to Lime Rock Park,” said Betsey Mauro, Executive Director of WSS.  “For so many years, we were fortunate to have such a gracious host in Elaine Laroche, who offered her LionRock Farm for the event. We’ve known for a few years that we were outgrowing LionRock, and Lime Rock is going to be the perfect fit as the event continues to grow.” 

“I am personally so excited about our move of the Trade Secrets™ event to Lime Rock Park in Salisbury, CT. I have often felt that as the event has grown, this is where we should be. The facilities of the park will make it so much more convenient for all attending, both in parking and pickup. Shopping will be an easier experience. The design committee is thrilled to be creating a memorable day for Trade Secrets on a lovely spot overlooking the Litchfield Hills,” said designer and Trade Secrets founder Bunny Williams.  

Skip Barber, Historic Festival 40 Race Director of Lime Rock, says, “I am a great admirer of Trade Secrets.  I am excited they are coming to Lime Rock Park this year. I believe we have the right facility for this special event.” 

The rare plant and garden antiques sale opens for early buyers at 9 am and includes breakfast.   The general admission begins at 10:30 am, and “late bloomer” tickets are only sold on-site day-of start at 12:30. The event ends at 3 pm.  

This year, the Sunday garden tour will be different, hosting three private gardens and three public gardens. The private gardens include Bunny Williams and John Rosselli, Michael Trapp, and Clove Brook Farm. In addition, there will be three public gardens on tour – two in New York, Wethersfield in Amenia and Innisfree Garden in Millbrook, and Hollister House Garden in Washington, CT. 

Also, on Sunday, Trade Secrets is hosting a Brunch and Book Signing at the White Hart. Authors signing books include Matthew Patrick Smyth, Carolyn Roehm, Frances Palmer, and James Golden. Tickets are $50, and there is limited seating.   

Trade Secrets will follow Covid-19 guidelines for both days and require proof of vaccination. Attendees are advised to check updates at the Trade Secrets website. 

Tickets go on sale April 1.  For more information or to purchase tickets, visit tradesecretsct.com or call 860-364-1080.  Follow us @tradesecretsCT.