As a lifelong Chicagoan and real estate broker, I’ve walked through countless neighborhoods, admired even more homes, and talked with residents who are deeply rooted in their communities. Few events capture the heart of a neighborhood quite like the Sheffield Garden Walk – the entirely volunteer-led celebration right in the heart of Lincoln Park – which is one of the reasons I am a proud sponsor!
Now in its 54th year, the Sheffield Garden Walk has grown from a small showcase of 16 home gardens into a full summer festival. What began in 1969, during a time of revitalization in the neighborhood, has evolved into a weekend-long celebration of architectural charm, creative landscaping, and the spirit of connection. Back then, neighbors wanted to highlight the effort they were putting into restoring historic homes and gardens, and over the years it has become a strong tradition and point of pride. The walk is organized by the Sheffield Neighborhood Association, which is a longstanding non-profit community organization that represents residents, businesses, and institutions in Chicago’s Sheffield neighborhood.
At this year’s Walk, happening July 19–20, you will find dozens of private gardens open for self-guided tours between 12-5pm each day, with a range that spans from professionally landscaped showpieces to charming DIY garden plots. There is even one home that has been part of the walk since the very beginning! In true neighborhood fashion, the Sheffield Garden Walk has blossomed into more than just gardens. Live music, plein air painters capturing the beauty of the streetscape, are favorites that will be back this year.
Pick up a $10 program at the Church of the Three Crosses or at the Family Festival to guide your stroll, which includes a map and garden descriptions. Looking for a deeper dive? The Sheffield Neighborhood Association has partnered with the Chicago Architecture Center to offer 13 walking tours throughout the weekend ($15 per person). These are led by the same expert docents who narrate the city’s beloved architecture boat tours, and they offer an inside look into the architecture and history that give this area its signature character.
For families looking to attend, stop by the Sheffield Neighborhood Association’s Family Fest held the Saturday of the Garden Walk from 10am - 1pm at Oscar Mayer School. The Family Festival kicks off with inflatables, a balloon artist, and a live set from local favorite Tunes with Tim—all free (though donations are encouraged!)! It’s a fantastic way to bring the kids into the festivities while supporting the neighborhood association, which relies on donations to make all of this happen.
And for those looking for more, celebrate the grand reopening of Trebes Park with a ribbon cutting on July 15, then bring your blanket and chairs back on Thursday, July 18 for an outdoor screening of Wicked at dusk. I am a proud sponsor of this event as well!
I can’t think of a better example of how a neighborhood can honor its past while growing into the future. Thank you to the chair of Garden Walk, Molly Lamping Fleck for sharing all of the details for this year’s events with me!
Want to get involved? Whether you live nearby or just love the neighborhood, consider volunteering! Visit the Sheffield Neighborhood Association website to learn more.
See you there!
