The Connecticut Unit’s first annual herb symposium took place in 1985 and traveled around the state until settling at the Pond House Cafe Garden Room in Elizabeth Park in 2003. This program is designed to educate and inspire everyone to incorporate herbs into their daily lives. Attendees enjoy an herb-infused morning snack and a delicious lunch prepared by the Pond House, featuring herbs chosen by the guest speaker. Browsing the herbal boutique and strolling through the many gardens in Elizabeth Park round out a perfect day!
Our 27th herb symposium held at the Pond House Cafe in Elizabeth Park was a great success! Cynthia Sutphin shared the story of the family-owned Cape Cod Lavender Farm in Harwich, Massachusetts and introduced us to the many benefits and uses of lavender in home decor, culinary pursuits, and mind-body-spirit endeavors. She encouraged us to grow lavender in our home gardens and Susan Eisenhandler educated the audience on the rich history of lavender spanning over 2,500 years.
The full house in the Pond House Garden Room enjoyed beautiful and tasty lavender-themed salads, entrees and desserts created by Chef Greg Janus. Guests had fun selecting their purchases from the many handmade culinary and crafted items at the Herbal Boutique. And it was a beautiful day for a leisurely tour of our Herb Garden in Elizabeth Park.
