Preparing the Executive Mansion Grounds for Garden Week
April 17, 2026
As Historic Garden Week approaches, the Executive Mansion grounds are getting special attention from Tony Griffin and his talented team. As the yellow tulips drop their last petals and the pink blossoms of the redbuds fade, the crew is already hard at work continuing to bring the property’s historic gardens and beds to life this spring.
Completed in 1813 and continuously occupied by Virginia’s governors since, the Executive Mansion stands as the oldest governor’s residence in the United States built for that purpose. Its grounds, history, and stories continue to welcome guests from across the Commonwealth and beyond.
Behind the Mansion, the Valentine Jackson Memorial Garden and the Gillette Garden remain cherished spaces known for their beauty and tranquility. Soon, the blue hydrangeas around Capitol Square will burst into color, adding to the seasonal display. Tony and his team’s expertise ensures that these gardens – and the broader Capitol Square landscape – remain vibrant and inviting.
The Executive Mansion and its gardens will be open to the public on Friday, April 24, from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. State employees are invited to enjoy the grounds in full bloom and experience the care and craftsmanship that make them shine. Inside the mansion, seasonal floral displays will celebrate springtime in the Commonwealth – be sure to look for Tony’s signature arrangements on the mantles!