East Nashville Parade of Ponds
Promises Tranquility Aug. 1-2
The babbling of a brook, water splashing and gurgling as it flows over rocks—these are some of the most soothing and relaxing sounds in nature. It is the tranquility of ponds and water gardens that motivates many homeowners to add water features to their living space. Visitors can get a taste of this tranquility during the 2015 Parade of Ponds August 1-2, hosted by the Nashville Pond Society.
Hours are from 10 a.m.-5 p.m. on Saturday and from noon-5 p.m. on Sunday. Tickets are $15 in advance and $20 if purchased on-site. Visit this link for tickets and more information.
Waterscaping has grown in popularity in recent years and benefits both pond owners and the environment according to experts, including the Alderleaf Wilderness College. The Nashville Pond Society is a non-profit organization dedicated to helping people learn about and care for water gardens and their inhabitants.
According to organizers, this year’s Parade will feature ponds in the vibrant neighborhoods of East Nashville, Inglewood, and Madison. Ponds range from hidden urban oases to pastoral retreats. When not exploring the eco-friendly habitats of birds, butterflies, frogs, and salamanders, visitors can sample fresh, local cuisine and browse the unique art and antique stores in the area.
The Parade of Ponds is a self-guided tour. Ticket holders can visit as many of the ponds as they like and in any order they please. But the easiest way to enjoy all the ponds is to follow the directions found in the ticket books that guide the visitor from house to house. Visitors may visit some ponds on Saturday and some on Sunday. Pond owners and Pond Society members will be on hand to answer questions about the ponds and about the world of water gardening and koi keeping.
“The Parade of Ponds offers a rare opportunity for those interested in waterscaping to see what other homeowners have created in their landscapes,” says Ruth Ann Veach, co-chair of this year’s tour. “We are excited and grateful that these homeowners have agreed to share their beautiful outdoor living spaces with tour visitors.” In addition to the lush plants and flowers in and around the water features, visitors will have the opportunity to watch beautiful goldfish and koi swim through glistening water. “All this makes for a breathtaking day as you travel from house to house,” says Veach.
All proceeds from the Parade of Ponds go back to the community through a variety of projects. In the past, NPS members have created ponds with waterfalls, aquatic plants, and fish at locations such as Alive Hospice and The Meadows, both in Nashville.
Advance tickets may be bought online at www.nashvillepondsociety.org or in person at Aquatic Critter (5009 Nolensville Road, Nashville), Grassland Aquatics (2164 Hillsboro Road, Franklin) or from NPS members for $15 per person; children 12 and under are admitted free. Tickets will also be available at some homes on the tour itself for $20 (cash or check only). Check the website in mid-July to find out where to buy tickets on the days of the tour.
For more information, visit www.nashvillepondsociety.org.