A free public garden in the heart of Norfolk, Virginia, Fred Heutte Garden is a living classroom where community grows. Through hands-on, no-cost or low-cost programs for all ages, we inspire curiosity, creativity, and environmental stewardship—the garden is open daily from dawn to dusk.

Most events below require registration, including free ones

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Most events below require registration, including free ones /

Upcoming Events

  • TEAM FRED VOLUNTEERS EVERY SATURDAY 9AM-12

    Team Fred meets every Saturday morning to volunteer at the gardens we all love. Join us at 9:00 AM and stay for an hour—or stay the whole morning. Every bit of help matters. No tools? No problem. We provide everything you need, including gloves. Throughout the winter months, our work continues. Volunteers may help with garden maintenance and winter prep, as well as light indoor projects. Fred Heutte Garden is 100% volunteer-maintained, and we can’t do this work without you. Whether you’re an experienced gardener or brand new, there’s a role for every skil level.

  • June's Once Upon A Garden. Free Children's Event.

    Join us at Fred Heutte Garden for June's Once Upon A Garden as we explore the fascinating world of bees! We'll read bee-themed stories, learn why these important pollinators help our gardens thrive, and enjoy a fun bee-inspired craft to take home. Afterward, we'll head into the garden to look for bees and the flowers they love. This free program is perfect for young nature lovers and their grown-ups. Registration is appreciated.

  • Fred Heutte Garden Craft Introduction to Gel Printing Saturday June 27th 1-3:30 PM

    Discover the colorful, endlessly creative world of gel printing at Fred Heutte Garden! In this hands-on workshop, participants will learn the basics of gel plate printing using natural materials like leaves, flowers, ferns, and garden textures to create beautiful one-of-a-kind prints. We’ll explore layering color, texture, and pattern while experimenting with brayers, stencils, and botanical materials gathered from the garden. No experience is necessary—just a willingness to play, experiment, and get a little messy. Participants will leave with a collection of unique prints, detailed instructions, and a helpful resource and materials list so they can continue creating at home. All materials provided. Perfect for artists, gardeners, crafters, and curious beginners alike. Cost for Class is $40

  • Free Fred Talk, Norfolk Park Ranger Brandon Whippo

    Join Norfolk Park Ranger Brandon Whippo for a fascinating look at Norfolk’s natural resources, local wildlife, and the efforts underway to protect them. Learn about the challenges facing our natural spaces, discover how Norfolk Park Rangers support conservation across the city, and find out how you can help preserve the places and wildlife that make Norfolk special. This free Fred Talk is perfect for nature lovers, outdoor enthusiasts, and anyone interested in becoming a better steward of Norfolk’s environment. Registration is appreciated.

  • Free Fred Talk, July 11th 3PM. Elizabeth River Project's Luisa Black

    Luísa Black Ellis leads resilience initiatives for the Elizabeth River Project, helping communities throughout Hampton Roads adapt to sea level rise and climate change through practical, accessible solutions. She has been instrumental in the development of the award-winning Ryan Resilience Lab in Norfolk, a nationally recognized living demonstration site that showcases how homeowners, businesses, and communities can live successfully with water while creating healthier, more sustainable landscapes. Her work focuses on connecting people with the tools and knowledge they need to build resilience at both the household and community level.

  • VISIT

    Explore the Fred and see what’s new as we refresh the garden, support education initiatives, host classes, workshops and symposia and promote community and sustainability. The Garden is open 365 days a year from dawn ‘til dusk.

  • VOLUNTEER

    We rely on volunteers to help maintain our vegetable and display gardens. Our volunteers help beautify our plantings and vegetable plot to ensure a good harvest to meet our contribution goals to community food banks. No experience is necessary to volunteer!

  • SUPPORT OUR EFFORTS

    Donations support gardening education, the costs of planting and maintaining our green space, programming and other operations of our beloved community garden. Donations are tax deductible and every bit of support makes a difference!

  • RENT THE FRED

    Have your next event at the Fred! The Fred is available to rent, for weddings, parties, memorials and other social happenings. Rental includes the building and grounds and tables and chairs and supports the Fred Heutte Foundation’s mission.

Nestled in the heart of Norfolk, Virginia, Fred Heutte Garden offers a serene escape for nature lovers and gardening enthusiasts alike. This beautiful public garden is dedicated to sustainability, best gardening practices, and the cultivation of native plants. Visitors can enjoy a peaceful stroll through meticulously maintained gardens while learning about eco-friendly horticulture.

In addition to its scenic beauty, the center hosts a variety of classes, seminars, and volunteer opportunities throughout the week. These programs provide hands-on experiences for gardeners and volunteers of all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned pros, and emphasize environmentally conscious methods.

Whether you're looking to expand your gardening knowledge, get involved in community efforts, or simply enjoy natural beauty in an oasis of calm in a busy urban neighborhood, the Fred Heutte Center Gardens is a must-visit destination.

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