Rose Garden
P.O. Box 3558
Chapel Hill, NC 27515-3558
Strowd Roses, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.
Bringing the community together in the garden.
Strowd Roses is a vibrant community gathering place, hosting and supporting a wide range of events throughout the year. From beloved traditions like Parks and Rec’s Magical Hill to nonprofit recitals and seasonal celebrations, the garden offers something for visitors of all ages.
Some events are organized directly by Strowd Roses, while others are made possible through partnerships with the Town, local nonprofits, and community groups. We are always interested in collaborating on events that enrich our community—whether for adults, children, or families. If you have an idea for a community-focused event and are interested in partnering with us to bring it to the garden, we’d love to hear from you. Please contact us at outreach@strowdroses.org.
What’s new
Upcoming Events
Magical Hill
Saturday, April 25th, 2026 from 11am-2pm
The Chapel Hill Community Center
Celebrate the magic of spring at the upcoming Magical Hill Event! This whimsical day features free, family-friendly activities with the highlight being the Fairy House Contest (registration required). You can also enjoy interactive stormwater education, a hands-on reptile encounter with fascinating creatures like Salad the blue tongue skink and Skeletor the python, a magic show, and engaging art activities. Costumes are encouraged as guests explore with their imagination and experience a unique park event that blends creativity, learning, and outdoor fun—perfect for celebrating the start of the spring season together! This event is hosted by Chapel Hill Parks and Recreation. It takes place on Saturday, April 25th, 2026 from 11am-2pm at The Chapel Hill Community Center located at 120 South Estes Drive Chapel Hill, NC, 27514. A portion of the event will also be held at the Gene Strowd Rose Garden.
Photo Contest
We are hosting our first ever photo contest and we want to see your garden pictures! Grab your phone or camera, head to the garden, and start snapping. Photos can be submitted using this form. Email us with any questions at photocontest@strowdroses.org.
The Details:
- Photos: All photos must have been taken in the Gene Strowd Community Rose Garden during 2026.
- Submission Deadline: September 13, 2026 at 11:59 p.m.
- Categories: Adult (18+) and Teen (13-17)
- The Prize: $100 for 1st place and $50 for 2nd place (in each category)
25 Years in Bloom – Anniversary Celebration
Date: Sunday, September 27, 2026
Time: 3-4:30 PM
Location: Strowd Rose Garden
Join us as we celebrate 25 years of Strowd Roses and reflect on a quarter-century of community and growth.
- Complimentary Refreshments
- Guided Garden Tours
- Live Musical Performance by Sisters’ Voices
Admission is free, and all community members are welcome! We look forward to celebrating with you!
Youth Art Workshop
We are excited to partner with FRANK Gallery to host a free Community Art Workshop for youth ages 10–17!
Young artists will get hands-on experience in both painting and ceramics, guided by talented instructors from FRANK Gallery. All skill levels are welcome. Snacks and art supplies are provided—just bring your creativity!
Please note: This event is outdoors in the garden and is subject to weather conditions.
Event Details:
- Date & Time: October 10th | 11:30 AM – 2:00 PM
- Location: Gene Strowd Community Rose Garden
- Register Here
Have questions? Reach out to us anytime at outreach@strowdroses.org. We can’t wait to create with you in the garden!
A Conversation with Paul Zimmerman
Saturday, November 7 | Gene Strowd Community Rose Garden
Growing roses is easier than you’ve been told—and Paul Zimmerman is here to prove it! One of the country’s most trusted voices on rose care joins us in the garden for a talk and open Q&A to close out our 25th anniversary celebration.
Bring your questions, from dealing with stubborn black spots to starting your very first bed. All gardening levels are invited and encouraged to attend!
Event Details:
- Date & Time: Saturday, November 7, 2026 | Time TBA
- Location: Gene Strowd Community Rose Garden
- Cost: Free & open to the public
Have questions? Reach out to us anytime at outreach@strowdroses.org.