Huntress Avenue Gardens a Whimsical Haven on Belfast Open Garden Days

“We try to keep it simple and inviting rather than ‘perfect’ and overwhelming,” says Bruce Bryant of the garden he and Linda Hollis have crafted together since 1996. On Saturday, June 21, from 10 a.m. until 4 p.m., Bruce and Linda, along with next-door neighbor Lisa Edwards, will open their gardens to the public as part of the 2025 Open Garden Days sponsored by the Belfast Garden Club. The gardens are located at 15 and 19 Huntress Avenue in Belfast. 

Bruce Bryant and Linda Hollis have created a whimsical haven with bright birdhouses and charming feeders in every corner. In a garden filled with plants given by friends, brought from relatives’ homes, and swapped for with other gardeners, Bruce and Linda have allowed change to be the driving force. A runoff stream out back has been rebuilt to preserve the property, and when two trees came down in a storm, new light flooded a shady area. All par for the course for these gardeners, who’ve designed the space and tilled this soil entirely by themselves since 1996. Next door, Lisa Edwards has made a garden replete with unusual trees and shrubbery. As an extra treat, artist Leslie Moore, who lives directly across the street, will open her studio to visitors as well.

The $5.00 donation covers admission to both gardens and goes to support the Belfast Garden Club’s work in the community, including maintenance of 13 public gardens, educational programs, and service projects. An Open Gardens Days season pass will be available on site for $35.00. The events take place each Saturdays (except 8/9) through August 16.